Lobster Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Lobster Mac and Cheese with White Cheddar a rich, creamy, and luxurious twist on a classic favorite! Tender chunks of succulent lobster are folded into perfectly cooked pasta and coated in a velvety white cheddar cheese sauce for an irresistible flavor combination.
Ingredients
- Main Components
- 1 lb (450 g) lobster meat (cooked, chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni (or cavatappi for extra texture)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (optional but highly recommended)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Topping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta : Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.Add pasta and cook until al dente (about 1 minute less than package instructions). Drain and toss lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce : In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden (this forms a roux). Slowly whisk in warm milk, then heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring often, until sauce thickens.Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.Remove from heat and stir in white cheddar and Gruyère until smooth and melted.
- Step 3: Add Lobsteru0026 Pasta : Gently fold lobster meat into the cheese sauce.Add cooked pasta and mix until fully coated.
- Step 4: Prepare the Topping : In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan.
- Step 5: Assemble u0026 Bake : Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer lobster mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumb topping evenly over the top.Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
- Step 6: Serve : Garnish with fresh parsley (optional). Serve hot, straight from the oven.