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Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta Shells

Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta Shells
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Savor rich, creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta Shells featuring tender lobster meat and a flavorful garlic butter sauce. This elegant yet approachable dish combines succulent seafood with medium-sized pasta shells that catch every bit of the luxurious sauce, making it perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh lobster meat (tails or claws), chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 oz medium-sized pasta shells
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 fresh garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Optional Variations

  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
  • Fresh basil or thyme, chopped (to add with parsley for herb infusion)
  • Substitute 1/2 cup half-and-half for heavy cream (to lighten sauce)
  • 1/2 cup cooked shrimp or scallops (for seafood medley)
  • 1 cup sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes (for vegetable boost)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the medium-sized pasta shells until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain well, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set the pasta aside.
  2. Cook the Lobster Meat: If using fresh lobster tails, boil or steam until fully cooked. Remove meat from shells and chop into bite-sized pieces. For pre-cooked lobster, thaw and chop as needed.
  3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it. Slowly stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Combine and Simmer: Add chopped lobster meat to the skillet and fold gently into the sauce to warm through. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
  5. Toss with Pasta Shells: Add the cooked pasta shells directly into the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the garlic butter lobster sauce. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for garnish.

Notes

  • Use fresh lobster for the best flavor and texture, though high-quality pre-cooked lobster works well.
  • Avoid overcooking the garlic to prevent bitterness; sauté just until golden and fragrant.
  • Reserve pasta water to help emulsify the sauce, making it silky and cling to the pasta.
  • Grate Parmesan cheese fresh for a creamy, rich sauce; pre-grated cheese can be dry.
  • Serve immediately while the sauce is warm and luscious for the best taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter lobster pasta, seafood pasta recipe, lobster shells pasta, creamy lobster pasta, easy lobster dinner

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/garlic-butter-lobster-pasta-shells/