Description
This Lobster Gnocchi Mac and Cheese is the ultimate indulgence combining tender potato gnocchi with rich, creamy cheese sauce and succulent lobster meat. Baked to golden perfection with a crispy panko topping, it’s a decadent main course that’s perfect for seafood lovers looking for a comforting, elegant meal.
Ingredients
Gnocchi
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Gruyère cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Lobster and Topping
- 8 ounces cooked lobster meat (claw and tail, chopped)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Cook Gnocchi: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to the package directions, typically 2-3 minutes until they float to the surface. Drain them well and set aside.
- Make the Roux and Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux, making sure it doesn’t brown. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, roughly 5 minutes.
- Add Cheeses and Seasonings: Stir in the shredded sharp white cheddar, grated Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses. Add the garlic powder and Dijon mustard. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Combine Gnocchi and Lobster: Gently fold the cooked gnocchi and chopped cooked lobster meat into the cheese sauce, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the gnocchi and lobster mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish or one with similar dimensions.
- Make Panko Topping: In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with olive oil and a pinch of salt. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the top of the dish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish with chopped fresh chives if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this luxurious lobster mac and cheese variation.
Notes
- Gruyère can be substituted with fontina or Swiss cheese depending on availability or preference.
- For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle the finished dish with truffle oil or add a pinch of Old Bay seasoning to the cheese sauce.
- Lobster meat can be pre-cooked or purchased cooked for convenience, making preparation easier and faster.