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Lobster Mac and Cheese with a Crispy Top

Elina James
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Pasta
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Pasta u0026 Lobster:
  • 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni or cavatappi
  • 1 lb (450 g) cooked lobster meat, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • For the Cheese Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • For the Crispy Topping:
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Cook the Pasta : Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce : In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a roux and cook 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Add Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  • Step 3: Combine Pasta and Lobster : Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl or directly in the baking dish, combine cooked pasta, lobster meat, and cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat pasta and lobster evenly.
  • Step 4: Prepare the Crispy Topping : In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan, and garlic powder (if using). Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the pasta and cheese sauce.
  • Step 5: Bake : Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish if not already in one. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy. Optional: broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
  • Step 6: Serve : Let the baked lobster mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for color. Serve hot, optionally with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.