Ingredients
- 400 g elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 250 g lobster meat (tail or claw, cooked and chopped)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika (plus more for topping)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the Lobster:
If using fresh lobster, steam or boil until the shells turn bright red. Remove the meat from the shell and cut into bite-sized chunks. If using frozen lobster, thaw completely and pat dry before chopping. - Make the Roux:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until foamy. Add the flour and whisk for one minute to form a smooth paste. This step ensures the sauce is silky and free from raw flour taste. - Add Milk and Cream:
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add the cream and continue stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. - Incorporate the Cheese:
Lower the heat and add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan gradually. Stir until completely melted into a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. - Combine Pasta and Lobster:
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir gently until coated. Fold in the chopped lobster carefully so the pieces remain whole. - Prepare the Topping:
Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and a pinch of paprika. Stir until evenly coated. - Assemble and Bake:
Pour the lobster mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread evenly and top with the breadcrumb mixture. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling. - Serve:
Let the dish rest for five minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes scooping easier.
Notes
For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce.
You can substitute lobster with chicken ham, turkey bacon, or shrimp for a more budget-friendly version.
Do not overbake, as the cheese sauce may dry out.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 20