This decadent dish combines the goodness of creamy mac and cheese with the elegance of chunks of lobster. This recipe for Simple Lobster Mac and Cheese is so easy, yet so scrumptious.
We are transforming a classic comfort food into a luxurious dish that is so simple to prepare using Trader Joe’s frozen lobster to simplify the process while still creating a dish that is rich, creamy and absolutely delicious.
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Whether you’re trying to impress your guest or just want to treat yourself to a decadent dinner, this is a dish that is unforgettable.
If you dare to bring this dish to a BBQ that your invited to, you will be the star of the party! Want to be a bigger hit? Bring along one of these salads as well. Either my Greek Orzo Pasta Salad or the Caprese Pasta Salad, both with equally get you major kudos!
Tips for making Simple Lobster Mac and Cheese:
- You can also use fresh lobster meat, you will need 2 four ounce lobster tails.
- I recommend shredding your own cheese. The pre-shredded bags of cheese do not melt as well.
- You can use any short pasta you like, cook according to directions on pasta to al dente. You do not want to overcook because pasta will continue cooking in the oven.
What is the best cheese to use for this Simple Lobster Mac and Cheese?
- Cheddar, Gruyère, and Gouda are popular choices. These cheeses melt well and provide a rich, creamy texture.
Can you make Lobster Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare it up to the point of baking, then refrigerate for up to two days before baking.
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Ingredients Needed:
Trader Joe frozen Langostino Lobster – Has a sweet, delicate flavor and a tender, succulent texture.
Small pasta – Are perfect for holding onto the creamy cheese sauce, ensuring each bite is flavorful and cheesy.
Butter – Is essential for creating the roux, it thickens the cheese sauce and adds a rich creamy flavor.
Flour – Is the thickening agent for the roux.
Milk and heavy Cream – A combination of milk and heavy cream provides the perfect balance of creaminess and smooth texture for the cheese sauce.
Cheddar and Gyuyere Cheeses – Adds a sharp flavor, and both melt well.
Salt, black pepper, parsley, garlic powder and nutmeg – All your seasonings creating a great flavor.
Step by Step Instructions:
Thaw the Trader Joe’s frozen lobster according to the package instructions. In a large skillet, add butter and the lobster. Season with salt and pepper and cook for 3 minutes. Set aside.
Cook pasta according to package directions until pasta is al dente. Set aside.
Melt butter in a large skillet.
Add flour and whisk until bubbly. Gradually add in cream and milk stirring constantly until mixture thickens.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until melted and smooth. Add the garlic powder, nutmeg, salt and pepper.
Transfer cooked pasta and lobster into a 9 x 13 inch greased baking pan. Pour in cheese mixture and mix until coated evenly.
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top, bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly. Let cool a few minutes and enjoy!
How do you store and reheat Lobster Mac and Cheese?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F or on the stove top over low heat. If needed, you can add a splash of milk or heavy cream to restore the creaminess.
Simple Lobster Mac and Cheese
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: serves 6
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Lobster:
- 1 8 ounce bag of Trader Joe Langostino Lobster, or 2 – 4 ounce lobster tails
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 1 pound corkscrew pasta or your favorite pasta shape
- 8 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1–1/2 cups heavy cream
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Cook the Lobster:
- In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the defrosted lobster. Season with salt and pepper and cook just until heated, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Drain the excess water, set lobster aside.
- Prepare the Mac and Cheese:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 8 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and melted butter.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Transfer the lobster mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake for about 20 – 25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the Lobster Mac and Cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
