Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups

Name: Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore these Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups! They combine the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese with the luxurious flavor of lobster, all baked into individual portions. Whenever I make them for gatherings, they are always a hit due to their impressive presentation and rich flavor. Perfectly portioned for parties or cozy dinners, they offer both comfort and elegance. Trust me, once you try these, you'll want to make them a regular feature in your recipe rotation!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:41:27.998Z

When I first experimented with incorporating lobster into traditional mac and cheese, I knew I was onto something special. The combination of the sweet, delicate lobster meat with the velvety cheese sauce created a rich and satisfying dish that transcended the ordinary. I also discovered that baking them in muffin tins not only makes serving easy but also ensures that each cup gets a wonderfully crispy top while retaining all that creamy goodness inside.

One important tip I learned is to fully cook the pasta al dente before mixing it with the cheese sauce. This allows it to hold its shape during baking, resulting in perfectly textured cups. Additionally, don't shy away from adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for that extra crunch—it brings a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the dish!

Why You'll Love These
Indulgent lobster paired with creamy cheese sauce
Perfectly portioned for entertaining or meal prep
Deliciously crispy on top with a gooey center

Crafting the Perfect Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is pivotal to the success of your Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups. Start by ensuring the butter is melted over medium heat without browning, which helps create a smooth base. When adding the flour, aim for a slightly golden hue as it cooks; this step, known as making a roux, not only thickens the sauce but also enhances its flavor. Gradually whisk in the milk, consistently stirring until the sauce reaches a glossy, thick consistency—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Using freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-packaged options yields a creamier texture. Pre-packaged cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. Adding the cheese to the sauce off the heat ensures that it melts evenly without clumping. For an added zing, consider incorporating a touch of grated Parmesan or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the flavor profile subtly.

Lobster Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right lobster is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your mac and cheese cups. Opt for fresh, cooked lobster meat, which has a sweet and delicate flavor. If you can find it, lobster claw meat has a lovely texture and is often more tender compared to tail meat. If fresh is not available, frozen lobster meat can be a good substitute. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid, as this will prevent your cups from becoming too watery.

When chopping the lobster meat, aim for bite-sized pieces. This ensures that every spoonful of your mac and cheese cups has a delightful balance of creamy cheese and succulent lobster. Be cautious not to overmix when folding the lobster into the macaroni and cheese sauce; you want to maintain the chunks of lobster without breaking them down further.

Perfecting the Bake and Storage Tips

Baking the Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups requires careful attention to achieve that perfect golden brown top. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes of baking; you want the tops to be crispy and the centers to remain gooey. A good visual cue is when the edges start bubbling and the surface turns a rich golden color. Allow them to cool slightly in the muffin tin to help them hold their shape when removed.

If you're preparing these cups in advance, they can be assembled ahead of time. Just refrigerate them in the muffin tin covered with plastic wrap for up to 24 hours before baking. For longer storage, these cups freeze beautifully. Just make sure they are completely cool before transferring them to an airtight container. Reheating is easy; simply bake them from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes, ensuring the tops stay crispy.

Ingredients

For the Cups

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine and Fill

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce, then gently fold in the lobster meat. Spoon the mixture into greased muffin tins, filling each cup to the top. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy. Allow to cool for a few minutes before removing from the tins.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce, or top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups can be served as an elegant appetizer or a main dish. For added sophistication, garnishing with finely chopped chives or parsley not only enhances the presentation but also adds a fresh burst of flavor. Pair them with a crisp green salad or a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider creating a fun lobster-themed platter. Featuring your mac and cheese cups alongside linguine with lobster and a side of garlic butter sauce will elevate the dining experience. Don't forget a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water to complement the flavors!

Variations to Explore

Feel free to customize your Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups to suit your palate. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or fontina, for a unique flavor twist. Incorporating elements like sautéed spinach or mushrooms can introduce additional textures and tastes. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure all flavors meld together beautifully.

For those looking to prepare a lighter version, substitute a portion of the elbow macaroni with cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini. This not only reduces the calorie count but also adds a new, refreshing component to the dish without sacrificing the cheesy goodness you crave.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen lobster meat?

Yes, frozen lobster meat works well. Just be sure to thaw it completely before using.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I make these cups in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and fill the muffin tins. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?

You can use any cheese that melts well, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.