Lobster Mac and Cheese (12 Servings)
**Ingredients:**
- Elbow Macaroni: 1 lb (16 oz)
- Cooked Lobster Meat: 2 lbs, chopped into bite-sized pieces (about 4-5 lobsters)
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick)
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup
- Whole Milk: 4 cups
- Heavy Cream: 2 cups
- Dijon Mustard: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 4 cups, shredded
- Gruyère Cheese: 2 cups, shredded
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated
- Panko Bread Crumbs: 1 cup (optional)
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped (optional, for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:**
- Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Cheese Sauce:**
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste (roux).
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. **Add the Cheese:**
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, Gruyère cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth. Reserve a small amount of cheddar cheese for topping, if desired.
4. **Combine Pasta and Lobster:**
- Add the cooked elbow macaroni and chopped lobster meat to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine and coat evenly.
5. **Assemble and Bake:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Transfer the lobster mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. **Prepare the Topping:**
- In a small bowl, mix the Panko bread crumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. Sprinkle with reserved shredded cheddar cheese, if using.
7. **Bake the Mac and Cheese:**
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
8. **Serve:**
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Tips for Success:
- **Lobster Meat:** Use freshly cooked lobster meat for the best flavor and texture. You can boil or steam whole lobsters, then remove the meat from the shells and chop it.
- **Cheese Mixture:** Mixing different cheeses like sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- **Bread Crumb Topping:** The Panko bread crumbs add a crispy texture to contrast with the creamy mac and cheese. Adjust the amount to your liking for more or less crunch.
Enjoy this luxurious Lobster Mac and Cheese as a main dish for a special gathering or dinner party!
Delicious!!