Maine

Lobster Mac and Cheese

Maine's cold Atlantic waters produce some of the sweetest lobster in the world, and this mac and cheese showcases it beautifully. Tender chunks of lobster swim in a rich white cheddar sauce, topped with buttery cracker crumbs.

⏱55 min 🍴Serves 6 Medium

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook cavatappi until al dente, drain and set aside.
  2. Melt 4 tbsp butter in a large saucepan. Whisk in flour and cook 2 minutes.
  3. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking constantly until thickened, about 6-8 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat. Stir in white cheddar and fontina until smooth. Season with salt and white pepper.
  5. Gently fold in pasta and lobster meat, being careful to keep lobster in chunks.
  6. Transfer to a buttered baking dish. Mix crushed crackers with 1 tbsp melted butter and paprika.
  7. Sprinkle cracker mixture over the top. Bake 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
  8. Garnish with fresh chives and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

  • Use fresh Maine lobster if possible - the sweet, tender meat is worth the splurge.
  • Don't overcook the lobster by adding it early - fold it in gently at the end to keep it tender.
  • Ritz crackers are a New England tradition for seafood bakes - their buttery crunch is perfect.
  • Reserve some claw meat for the top as a beautiful garnish before baking.