Oven-Baked Lobster Mac and Cheese
Description
Oven-Baked Lobster Mac and Cheese is an ultra-creamy, rich, and luxurious comfort food dish loaded with tender lobster meat, buttery pasta, and a velvety cheese sauce baked until golden and bubbly. This restaurant-style recipe combines elegant seafood flavor with classic cheesy macaroni for the ultimate indulgent dinner or special occasion meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or shell pasta
- 2 cups cooked lobster meat, chopped
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère or mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Optional: parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly add milk and heavy cream while whisking until smooth and thickened.
- Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper until melted and creamy.
- Fold in cooked pasta and lobster meat gently.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Fresh lobster gives the best flavor, but frozen cooked lobster works too.
- Do not overcook lobster or it may become rubbery.
- Gruyère adds a rich gourmet flavor.
Tips
- Add a pinch of cayenne for slight heat.
- Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crispy topping.
- Serve immediately while creamy and hot.
Servings
6 servings
Nutritional Info (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
Benefits
- Rich source of protein
- Gourmet comfort food experience
- Perfect for holidays or dinner parties
- Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying
- Great special occasion recipe
Q&A
Can I use imitation lobster?
Yes, but real lobster gives the best flavor and texture.
What pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni, shells, or cavatappi.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, assemble before baking and refrigerate up to 24 hours.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze before baking for best results.
What sides pair well?
Salad, garlic bread, roasted asparagus, or steamed vegetables.