Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this luxurious Garlic Butter Lobster Mac & Cheese. Featuring succulent lobster, a rich three-cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s an unforgettable gourmet experience.
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni or preferred pasta
- 2 (1.5 lb) live lobsters, or 1 lb cooked lobster meat
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 1 large shallot, finely minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced, divided
- 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk or half-and-half, warmed
- 1 tsp salt, plus more for pasta water
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup shredded Fontina or Havarti cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Prepare Lobster: Cook live lobsters in boiling salted water for 8-10 mins, then transfer to an ice bath. Extract meat from claws and tails, chop into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- 2. Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 3. Make Roux: In a large pot, melt 6 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add shallots and cook 2-3 mins until softened. Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic and cook 1 min until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook 2-3 mins, stirring constantly, until a pale golden roux forms.
- 4. Create Bechamel: Gradually whisk in warm milk until smooth and thickened, about 5-7 mins. Add salt, pepper, and thyme sprig. Simmer 5 mins, then remove thyme.
- 5. Melt Cheese: Remove pot from heat. Gradually add shredded cheeses, stirring until smooth and fully melted. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- 6. Combine & Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Fold cooked pasta and lobster meat into the cheese sauce. Pour into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra crispness, if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins