Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups

Name: Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Sweet Cravings Bakery

I absolutely adore Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups! The combination of tender lobster and creamy cheese in a perfect bite-sized portion is simply irresistible. Whenever I host a dinner party, these cups steal the show. The scrumptious flavors come together so easily that they make me feel like a culinary genius in no time! Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these delightful treats always bring smiles to my guests' faces. Plus, they're a fun twist on traditional mac and cheese, making them a must-try dish for any seafood lover.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-22T18:53:28.719Z

When I first made Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups, I couldn’t believe how easily it turned into a crowd favorite. The secret lies in the blend of cheeses and the fresh lobster, which elevates the classic mac and cheese to gourmet status. I like to use a mix of sharp cheddar and creamy Gruyère for maximum flavor and indulgence.

Another tip I discovered is to bake these cups in a muffin tin, which creates golden, crispy edges while keeping the center creamy. The little cups are perfect for portion control and make eating them even more fun!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent lobster paired with creamy, cheesy goodness
Individual servings make them perfect for sharing
Easy to make ahead of time and bake when ready

Lobster: The Star Ingredient

The lobster is undoubtedly the highlight of these Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups, providing a rich, sweet flavor that perfectly complements the creamy cheese. When selecting lobster, aim for fresh or high-quality frozen meat. If using frozen, allow it to thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight. Freshly cooked lobster can be shredded into chunky pieces, giving your mac and cheese an appealing texture. I suggest adding a dash of lemon zest to enhance the flavors further and brighten the dish.

To ensure the best results, avoid overcooking the lobster during the initial cook. Remember, it will be added to the cheese sauce and baked in the oven, so it's best to keep it slightly underdone to maintain its delicate texture. The key is to achieve a gentle sauté until just opaque; this should take about 4-5 minutes in a hot skillet.

Achieving Perfect Cheese Sauce

A smooth, creamy cheese sauce is essential for a successful Lobster Mac and Cheese. When making the roux, be careful not to let the flour brown too much; you're aiming for a pale golden color. This will help ensure that the sauce remains smooth and doesn't develop a grainy texture. Gradually adding milk while whisking will help prevent lumps and allows the sauce to thicken evenly. Keep stirring until it reaches a glossy consistency, usually within 3-5 minutes.

If you prefer a sharper flavor profile, experiment with different cheese combinations. While the recipe calls for sharp cheddar and Gruyère, feel free to swap in a smoked gouda for a smoky twist or a creamy mozzarella for a milder taste. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well, ensuring that your sauce is creamy and indulgent.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups.

For the Lobster Mac and Cheese

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking for an easier experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps for delicious Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups.

Cook the pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, approximately 6-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Make the cheese sauce

In the same pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring until the mixture thickens. Add the cheddar and Gruyère cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine the lobster and pasta

Add the cooked macaroni and lobster meat to the cheese sauce, mixing until combined.

Prepare the muffin tin

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin with non-stick spray. Spoon the mac and cheese mixture into each muffin cup, filling them all the way.

Add breadcrumbs and bake

Top each cup with breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of parsley. Transfer to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool and serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Carefully lift the cups out of the muffin tin and serve warm.

Enjoy your Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups fresh from the oven!

Pro Tips

For a little extra flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice to the cheese sauce. The acidity complements the lobster beautifully!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for hosting or meal prepping. After spooning the mac and cheese mixture into the muffin tin, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add the breadcrumbs and parsley before popping them in the oven. This also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, providing an even richer taste.

If you have leftovers, store the cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through, or microwave them in short intervals if you're in a hurry, but be cautious to avoid rubbery textures.

Serving Suggestions

These Lobster Mac and Cheese Cups are versatile in serving options. Present them as elegant appetizers at a dinner party, or pair them with a fresh side salad and a glass of white wine for a delightful main course. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a fantastic contrast to the creamy interior, so consider serving them with a side of homemade marinara or a lemon-butter sauce for dipping.

For a fun twist, you could incorporate additional ingredients like sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the mac and cheese mixture before baking. This not only adds color but brings extra layers of flavor and nutrients to your dish, making it even more satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and bake when ready to serve.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

You can experiment with other cheeses like Fontina or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.

→ Can I use frozen lobster meat?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.