Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese Recipe

Lobster mac and cheese is the kind of dish that feels like a splurge, but it’s surprisingly easy to pull off at home!

For Ruth’s Chris’ version, a simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and a little lemon brings out the best in the lamb.

I always mix in white cheddar, Gruyère, and a bit of Monterey Jack for a silky texture that coats every noodle.

Lobster needs to stay tender, so I cook it separately and stir it in right before baking.

A crunchy topping is a must! Panko mixed with melted butter gives the best crisp, especially when broiled for a couple of minutes.

How to Make Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 8 oz. Macaroni
• 4 oz. Lobster Meat (cooked)
• 2 cups Half and Half
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 2 tbsp Flour
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• 1/4 tsp Paprika

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.

Drain and set aside.

Step 2:

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Stir in flour to form a roux.

Add salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 3:

Slowly whisk in the half and half to avoid any lumps.

Continue stirring until the mixture thickens.

Step 4:

Combine cheddar and parmesan.

Stir into the sauce, cooking until the cheese melts smoothly.

Step 5:

Blend in the cooked macaroni and lobster meat.

Transfer to a baking dish and sprinkle some extra cheese on top if desired.

Step 6:

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing the Cheese:

Opt for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged ones to achieve a smoother and creamier sauce.

This small change makes a big difference in the final texture of the dish!

Lobster Meat Tips:

You can use either fresh or frozen lobster meat, but make sure it’s thoroughly cooked before adding it to the macaroni.

Frozen lobster should be thawed overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Sauce Consistency:

If your sauce seems too thick, add a bit more half and half to reach the desired creaminess.

The sauce should coat the back of a spoon but not be overly runny.

Baking Time:

Keep an eye on your mac and cheese while it’s baking because ovens can vary in temperature.

You want the top to be golden brown but not burnt, so adjust the time as needed.

Serving Suggestions:

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

The freshness complements the rich flavors of the mac and cheese perfectly!

What to Serve with Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese Recipe

Steamed Vegetables

Steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli can offer a fresh contrast to the rich and cheesy flavors of lobster mac and cheese.

They provide a crisp texture that complements the creamy pasta, and their bright green color is a visual treat on your plate.

Sometimes, I like to make a quick lemon butter sauce to drizzle over them for a hint of zest.

Roasted Veggies

If you’re serving this in cooler weather, roasted vegetables can offer warmth and depth that pair nicely with the dish.

Think about roasting Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes with some olive oil and herbs.

They bring a caramelized flavor that balances out the creaminess of the mac and cheese.

Green Salad

For something a bit lighter, a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette can complement the richness of the lobster mac and cheese.

I often choose mixed greens with slices of avocado and a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch.

The citrus vinaigrette cuts through the heaviness of the cheese, refreshing your palate between bites.

Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple is an unexpected side dish that goes surprisingly well with this dish.

Its sweet and slightly charred flavor makes an interesting contrast to the rich and savory notes of the mac and cheese.

I sometimes sprinkle a little chili powder on the pineapple slices for a spicy-sweet kick that wakes up your taste buds.

Variations and Substitutions

Pasta Choices

While cavatappi pasta is the traditional choice for this dish, you might find penne or elbow macaroni also work well.

Switching up the pasta can subtly change the dish’s texture, which I find exciting!

Cheese Options

Gruyere cheese brings a rich flavor, but if you’re out, try Swiss or mozzarella instead.

I once substituted with a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack, and it added a fantastic blend of flavors!

Seafood Alternatives

If lobster isn’t available, shrimp or crab can easily be used as an alternative.

I’ve noticed that shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Additional Toppings

Adding buttery breadcrumbs can bring a crunchy element to the top of your dish.

You might even enjoy sprinkling some crispy bacon bits on top for a smoky taste that complements the cheese sauce.

Enjoy experimenting with these options—each change can lead to a unique version that is all your own!

How to Store Leftover Lobster Mac and Cheese

You know, storing leftover lobster mac and cheese is quite straightforward, and it’s vital to retain its flavor and texture for next time.

Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature, as this prevents condensation, which can degrade the taste and texture of the dish.

Airtight Containers

Transfer it into an airtight container, which is key to maintaining its delicious richness by reducing exposure to air.

A good seal helps preserve both the lobster and cheese elements.

Refrigeration Time

Your leftovers are happy for up to three days in the fridge, but don’t push it beyond that to keep things safe and tasty.

Sticking with this timeline ensures it maintains the quality you love.

Portioning Tip

If possible, portion them out before storing, so you can grab the exact amount you need.

This makes it super convenient when you’re ready for a quick bite later on.

Remember, keeping your lobster mac and cheese covered and cool is the best way to enjoy it again!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing the Wrong Cheese

You want a creamy and rich texture in your mac and cheese, right?

Using only cheddar can sometimes make the dish a bit one-dimensional.

Try a mix of cheeses to add depth and complexity to the flavor.

Not Seasoning Properly

Don’t forget to add some spice and seasoning to give the dish more character.

Salt, pepper, and a hint of cayenne can really make your recipe shine!

Taste your sauce as you go to make sure it’s flavorful.

Misjudging Lobster Quantity

It’s important not to skimp on the lobster because it’s the star ingredient.

You want every bite to have a taste of lobster, so make sure you use enough.

You can use real lobster or even imitation if you’re in a pinch.