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Lobster Mac and Cheese Bake

Lobster Mac and Cheese Bake
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Lobster Mac and Cheese Bake is a rich and creamy twist on the classic comfort food, featuring tender lobster chunks combined with cheesy baked elbow macaroni. This indulgent yet simple recipe offers a perfect balance of cozy and elegant flavors, ideal for special occasions or elevating your weeknight dinner with a warm, decadent dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Seafood

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 pound cooked lobster meat, chopped

Cheese Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk or half-and-half
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Topping

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Butter, for greasing and optional for topping

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water just until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to keep the pasta tender but firm enough to bake without getting mushy.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux and cook for about 2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually add milk or half-and-half while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir until the sauce thickens to a creamy texture, then remove from heat and mix in shredded cheddar, Gruyere, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika until melted and smooth.
  3. Combine Lobster and Pasta: Fold cooked pasta and chopped lobster meat gently into the cheese sauce, ensuring everything is well coated and evenly distributed for every bite.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the macaroni and lobster mixture into a buttered baking dish. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly on top for a crisp golden crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and the topping is beautifully browned.
  5. Rest and Serve: Allow the bake to cool slightly before serving so the sauce thickens slightly and flavors meld. This will make every serving creamy yet set enough to hold its shape.

Notes

  • Use fresh lobster if possible for best flavor and texture.
  • Don’t overcook pasta; al dente holds up better during baking.
  • Whisk sauce often and add milk slowly to avoid lumps.
  • Butter your baking dish liberally to prevent sticking and ease serving.
  • Try a mixture of cheeses for added richness and complexity.
  • Let the bake rest a few minutes after coming out of the oven for easier serving and enhanced flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: lobster, mac and cheese, baked pasta, comfort food, cheesy bake, seafood pasta, lobster recipe, creamy mac and cheese

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/lobster-mac-and-cheese-bake/