Indulge in this creamy, decadent Lobster Mac and Cheese featuring tender chunks of Atlantic lobster, rich Gruyère, and extra-sharp Cheddar cheese from Larry's Catch. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a touch of luxury, perfect for special dinners or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1 lb cooked Atlantic lobster meat, chopped
- 2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 2 cups extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the Macaroni:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard and paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the Gruyère and extra-sharp Cheddar cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Combine the Pasta and Lobster:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat all the pasta evenly.
- Gently fold in the chopped cooked Atlantic lobster meat, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the mac and cheese.
Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and olive oil. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top of the mac and cheese, followed by the panko mixture for extra crunch.
Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the lobster mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with tender lobster.
Tips for Making Lobster Mac and Cheese:
- Lobster Meat: Use high-quality cooked Atlantic lobster from Larry's Catch for the best flavor.
- Cheese Blend: Gruyère adds a creamy texture and nutty flavor, while the extra-sharp Cheddar brings a strong, bold taste.
- Panko Topping: The crunchy breadcrumb topping adds the perfect contrast to the creamy pasta.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this Lobster Mac and Cheese with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For an even more indulgent twist, try serving it with a glass of Chardonnay.