Homemade Costco Lobster Mac And Cheese Recipe

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a dish that feels both familiar and a little indulgent, and that’s exactly why Costco’s Lobster Mac and Cheese has become a favorite in many kitchens. Join me as i make this delicacy.

What Is Costco Lobster Mac And Cheese?

The Costco Lobster Mac and Cheese is a highly popular prepared item made with cold water lobster meat, cavatappi pasta, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Ingredients:

For The Pasta:

• 1 pound cavatappi pasta (shells or elbow macaroni also work)
• Salt for boiling water

For The Cheese Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1 ½–2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Gruyère or Monterey Jack, shredded
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Sea salt to taste
• Ground black pepper to taste

For The Lobster:

• 12–16 ounces cooked lobster meat (claw and knuckle pieces give a tender texture)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter for tossing
• Lemon zest from half a lemon

Optional Topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• A sprinkle of paprika for color

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the cavatappi until it reaches a tender, bouncy texture. Drain and set aside. A small drizzle of olive oil over the cooked pasta prevents the pieces from sticking together while you prepare the sauce.
2. Warm the Lobster: Place the cooked lobster in a bowl and drizzle the melted butter over it. Add the lemon zest and gently fold everything together. This step brings out a richer seafood aroma and keeps the lobster tender when folded into the sauce.

Make The Cheese Sauce:

1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until the mixture turns into a smooth, light roux.
3. Pour the warm milk in slowly, whisking continuously.
4. Allow the sauce to thicken as it simmers gently.
5. Reduce the heat and stir in the cheddar and Gruyère.
6. Add paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
7. The sauce should look glossy and velvety, with a gentle pull when you lift the spoon.

1. Combine the Pasta, Sauce, and Lobster: Pour the cooked pasta into a large baking dish or mixing bowl. Add the warm cheese sauce and fold until every piece is coated. Add the lobster last, folding thoughtfully to keep the chunks whole and tender.
2. Add the Optional Topping: Mix the panko, melted butter, and Parmesan in a small bowl. Scatter the topping over the macaroni until the surface is evenly covered.
3. Bake Until Golden: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes. The cheese will bubble gently, and the topping will turn golden with a crisp texture. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to help everything settle beautifully.

Tips For Better Flavor And Texture For Costco Lobster Mac And Cheese:

• Choose Quality Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings depth, while Gruyère adds creaminess. Using a blend creates a flavor profile similar to the one many people love in the Costco version.
• Warm the Milk Before Adding: Warm milk blends more smoothly into the roux and prevents lumps from forming. This step keeps the sauce silky from beginning to end.
• Avoid Overcooking the Lobster: Lobster becomes firm when overheated. Fold it into the pasta after the sauce is fully mixed so the heat distributes gently.
• Use Cavatappi for the Best Texture: The Corkscrew shape holds both sauce and lobster, giving every bite a satisfying mix of flavors.
• Let It Rest Before Scooping: A short resting period helps the cheese set slightly, making each scoop hold together beautifully.
• Add Fresh Herbs for Aroma: Chives, parsley, or a light sprinkle of thyme bring an appealing freshness to the finished dish.

What To Serve Costco Lobster Mac And Cheese With

• Bright Green Vegetables: A rich dish like Costco lobster mac and cheese becomes more enjoyable when paired with something fresh and vibrant. Steamed asparagus, sautéed green beans, or a bowl of roasted broccoli adds color to the plate and brings a pleasant balance. When you prepare these sides, a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can make the whole meal feel thoughtfully put together.
• Garden Salad with a Light Dressing: A crisp salad can bring a refreshing element to the Costco lobster mac and cheese meal. Mix tender greens with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions. A vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon, and a touch of honey creates a flavorful complement without overwhelming the richness of the mac and cheese. This kind of salad works beautifully when you want to keep the meal feeling vibrant.
• Warm Artisan Bread or Soft Dinner Rolls: A basket of warm bread allows everyone at the table to enjoy the creamy sauce in a comforting, familiar way. Whether you use crusty sourdough or soft rolls brushed with garlic butter, the bread brings a cozy, inviting touch that pairs naturally with the texture of the Costco lobster mac and cheese.
• Seafood Add-Ons: If you enjoy a more indulgent experience, you can prepare a simple seafood side. Pan-seared scallops, grilled shrimp, or even a small portion of baked salmon can elevate the meal. These additions work well when you feel like turning dinner into something special without complicating the process.
• Light Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup creates a soothing start. Carrot-ginger soup, tomato basil, or a simple blended squash soup brings comfort and complements the meal’s creamy nature. This pairing works beautifully on evenings when you want the table to feel extra cozy.
• Roasted Vegetables with Herbs: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, or zucchini develop deep, appealing flavors that suit the richness of the Costco lobster mac and cheese. A drizzle of olive oil and herbs like thyme or rosemary can make the vegetables smell incredible as they come out of the oven.
• A Citrus-Forward Drink: A refreshing drink can round out the meal. Sparkling water with lime, lemonade with fresh mint, or a citrus iced tea feels uplifting alongside the Costco lobster mac and cheese. These types of drinks bring a nice brightness to the overall experience.

Health Benefits Of Costco Lobster Mac And Cheese

• Source of High-Quality Protein: Lobster provides a meaningful amount of lean protein, which supports muscle maintenance, daily energy, and healthy tissue repair. When this seafood is combined with the pasta and cheese, the dish offers a satisfying protein profile that can help keep you full longer. This benefit becomes especially noticeable when you pair the meal with vegetables or a salad.
• Provides Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Although lobster contains smaller amounts compared with fattier fish, the omega-3s it offers still play a supportive role in heart and brain health. These healthy fats are known for their ability to help with normal cognitive function and overall cardiovascular wellness. Enjoying lobster in a familiar pasta dish can be a pleasant way to include more seafood-derived nutrients in your week.
• Offers Calcium from the Cheese: The cheese sauce brings a meaningful source of Calcium, supporting strong bones, teeth, and proper nerve signaling. Calcium-rich meals can be especially helpful for people who prefer warm, comforting dishes that also contribute to long-term wellness goals.
• Delivers Energy-Supporting Carbohydrates: The pasta provides carbohydrates that help fuel daily activities. For many people, this steady source of energy contributes to feelings of satisfaction and comfort during a busy day. When paired with protein from the lobster, these carbohydrates create a balanced meal that supports both energy and fullness.
• Support Mood Through Comfort and Enjoyment: Comfort foods can contribute to emotional well-being, especially during moments when warmth and relaxation feel meaningful. A creamy, flavorful meal can create a positive sensory experience, which supports overall mental comfort and enhances the atmosphere of family dinners or personal downtime.
• Encourages Balanced Eating When Paired with Fresh Sides: When you enjoy the mac and cheese with vegetables, salads, or light soups, the meal becomes part of a balanced plate that includes fiber, vitamins, and hydration. This approach supports digestive wellness and brings a nourishing variety of colors and nutrients to the table.

Substitute Ingredients:

Seafood Alternatives For Lobster:

• Shrimp: Shrimp brings a sweet, tender texture that works beautifully in creamy pasta. Medium or large shrimp perform well because they hold their shape and add a pleasant bite.
• Crab Meat: Both fresh and high-quality canned crab meat blend smoothly into the dish. Lump crab offers a delicate sweetness that feels satisfying in every scoop.
• Scallops: Chopped seared scallops offer a buttery flavor that pairs naturally with cheese sauces. Their softness adds a luxurious touch.
• Imitation Lobster or Imitation Crab: When these products are available, they can provide a pleasant seafood note that works well in baked dishes. Their texture holds up nicely during mixing and baking.

Protein-Based Alternatives:

• Chicken Breast: Cooked, shredded, or cubed chicken can bring a mild, comforting flavor. This option works well when you want a familiar protein that blends smoothly with cheese.
• Smoked Turkey: Thin strips of smoked turkey add a gentle, savory aroma that enhances the richness of the pasta and cheese.

Cheese Substitutes:

• White Cheddar: If sharp cheddar isn’t available, white cheddar melts smoothly and gives the sauce a clean, rich flavor.
• Monterey Jack: This cheese produces a silky texture and melts evenly throughout the sauce.
• Colby Cheese: Colby cheese brings a mild taste and creates a beautifully creamy base for the pasta.
• Parmesan: Use a small amount to add depth and a savory layer to the flavor profile.
• Mozzarella: Mozzarella offers gentle richness and gives the sauce a stretchy, appealing consistency.

Milk And Cream Substitutes:

• Half-and-Half: This provides thickness and a comforting creaminess when creating the sauce.
• Evaporated Milk: Evaporated milk blends smoothly into a roux and adds body without being heavy.
• Full-Fat Coconut Milk: For anyone who enjoys dairy-free substitutions, full-fat coconut milk can create a velvety sauce with a mild, pleasant flavor.

Pasta Substitutes:

• Elbow Macaroni: A classic shape that holds sauce well and bakes beautifully.
• Shells: Shells capture pockets of cheese and seafood, creating an enjoyable texture.
• Rigatoni: Rigatoni brings large tubes that cradle the cheese sauce and lobster pieces.
• Penne: Penne stays firm after baking and works well with thicker sauces.

Breadcrumb Topping Alternatives:

• Crushed Butter Crackers: These crackers create a golden, delicious crust with a soft crunch.
• Crushed Cornflakes: Cornflakes offer a light, crispy texture on top of the dish.
• Seasoned Breadcrumbs: Seasoned breadcrumbs bring additional flavor and a fragrant aroma during baking.

Flavor Boost Substitutes:

• Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky, appealing aroma to the sauce or topping.
• Dijon Mustard: A teaspoon of Dijon in the sauce deepens the flavor and blends perfectly into the cheese.
• Garlic Paste: Provides a smooth, rich garlic taste that melts directly into the sauce.
• Fresh Herbs: Chives, parsley, thyme, or basil bring brightness and elevate the experience.

Final Thoughts

Bringing Costco-style Lobster Mac and Cheese into your own kitchen turns a familiar favorite into a comforting experience that feels personal and rewarding.

More Food Recipes:

• Cranberry Sauce With Orange Juice Recipe
• Copycat LesserEvil White Chocolate Marshmallow Popcorn Recipe
• Homemade KFC Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe

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Costco Lobster Mac And Cheese

Rating: 5.0/5

( 1 voted )

Serves: 5 Prep Time: 20 Minutes Cooking Time: 25 Minutes 25 Minutes Nutrition facts: 330 calories 16 grams fat

Ingredients

For The Pasta:

• 1 pound cavatappi pasta (shells or elbow macaroni also work)
• Salt for boiling water

For The Cheese Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1 ½–2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Gruyère or Monterey Jack, shredded
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Sea salt to taste
• Ground black pepper to taste

For The Lobster:

• 12–16 ounces cooked lobster meat (claw and knuckle pieces give a tender texture)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter for tossing
• Lemon zest from half a lemon

Optional Topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• A sprinkle of paprika for color

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the cavatappi until it reaches a tender, bouncy texture. Drain and set aside. A small drizzle of olive oil over the cooked pasta prevents the pieces from sticking together while you prepare the sauce.
2. Warm the Lobster: Place the cooked lobster in a bowl and drizzle the melted butter over it. Add the lemon zest and gently fold everything together. This step brings out a richer seafood aroma and keeps the lobster tender when folded into the sauce.

Make The Cheese Sauce:

1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until the mixture turns into a smooth, light roux.
3. Pour the warm milk in slowly, whisking continuously.
4. Allow the sauce to thicken as it simmers gently.
5. Reduce the heat and stir in the cheddar and Gruyère.
6. Add paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
7. The sauce should look glossy and velvety, with a gentle pull when you lift the spoon.

1. Combine the Pasta, Sauce, and Lobster: Pour the cooked pasta into a large baking dish or mixing bowl. Add the warm cheese sauce and fold until every piece is coated. Add the lobster last, folding thoughtfully to keep the chunks whole and tender.
2. Add the Optional Topping: Mix the panko, melted butter, and Parmesan in a small bowl. Scatter the topping over the macaroni until the surface is evenly covered.
3. Bake Until Golden: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes. The cheese will bubble gently, and the topping will turn golden with a crisp texture. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to help everything settle beautifully.