Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 cooked lobster (meat chopped into bite-size pieces, juices reserved)
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 2-3 cups milk
- 1.5 lb sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- Pepper to taste
- 3/4 cup panko crumbs
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 5 tbsp Butter (divided)
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Lobster: Cook one lobster, remove the meat, and chop into bite-size pieces. Reserve any juices. Chill until ready to use.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil macaroni until almost al dente. Drain, transfer to a bowl, and toss with 2–3 tbsp of butter.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole pan.
- Make the Cheese Sauce (Roux): In a saucepan, melt 3 tbsp of butter. Stir in flour to form a thick paste.Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk, stirring constantly.Bring to a low simmer, then add cheddar cheese and lobster meat with juices.Stir until the cheese melts and the mixture is creamy.Add mustard powder, salt, and pepper (go easy on the pepper).
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni and gently fold to combine.
- Add the Topping: Melt 2 tbsp of butter and toss with the panko crumbs. Sprinkle over the macaroni.
- Bake: Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Finish with Parmesan: Remove from the oven and sprinkle Parmesan across the top. It will melt into the panko and add extra flavor.
Fancy or Basic Mac and Cheese?
The beauty of this recipe is that it's easy to dress up with the zest of lemon, a dash of cayenne, or a vinegar-based hot sauce. After adding these ingredients, taste the cheese. Is it too acidic? Consider adding a quarter tsp of sugar to balance it out. But, a little acidity may be what you're looking for, with the addition of Maine lobster. This classic twist on mac & cheese is sure to please everyone.Why You'll Love This Recipe
- It’s hearty enough to serve as a main course
- Feels indulgent but is easy to make
- You can dress it up or keep it simple
- Perfect for late summer or fall evenings
Wine Pairing Ideas
Lobster mac pairs well with white wines that cut through the richness of the cheese:- Off-Dry Riesling – A touch of sweetness balances the savory elements
- Unoaked Chardonnay – Creamy yet crisp, with citrus undertones
- Pinot Grigio – Light and refreshing
- Vinho Verde – Slightly fizzy, bright, and affordable, great for summer
Want red wine? A light-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon can also work, especially if you add a dash of cayenne or lemon zest to the dish.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!