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Ina Garten Lobster Mac and Cheese Recipe

Ina Garten Lobster Mac and Cheese
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Lobster Mac and Cheese is a decadent take on traditional macaroni and cheese, featuring chunks of fresh lobster mixed into a velvety cheese sauce. Ina Garten’s version uses high-quality cheeses and a crispy breadcrumb topping for a perfectly balanced dish with a luxurious taste.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta and Lobster:

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni or cavatappi
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 pound cooked lobster meat, chopped

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 4 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
  • 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese

For the Topping:

  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Boil the pasta: Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions.
  • Drain and set aside: Drain the pasta and toss it with 2 tablespoons of butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

  • Melt the butter: In a large saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  • Whisk in flour: Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until smooth and lightly golden.
  • Add the warm milk: Slowly pour in the warmed milk while whisking to create a thick, lump-free sauce.
  • Season the sauce: Stir in salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
  • Melt the cheese: Remove from heat and gradually stir in Gruyère and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Mac and Cheese

  • Combine pasta and cheese sauce: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until fully coated.
  • Add lobster meat: Gently fold in the chopped lobster pieces.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

  • Mix the breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

  • Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the topping: Evenly spread the breadcrumb mixture over the top.
  • Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve

  • Rest and serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving warm.

Find it online: https://inagartencooks.com/ina-garten-lobster-mac-and-cheese/