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 oz elbow macaroni; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped; 1/4 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Recipe Ideas

I absolutely love combining the rich, creamy goodness of mac and cheese with the luxurious flavor of lobster in these delightful cups. Each bite is a perfect balance of tender pasta, decadent cheese sauce, and succulent lobster meat. Preparing them in individual portions not only makes for an elegant presentation, but also allows for easy serving at gatherings. With a crisp topping and a creamy interior, these lobster mac and cheese cups are my go-to dish for impressing friends and family at any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-22T11:10:30.424Z

I remember the first time I made these lobster mac and cheese cups; they took my favorite comfort food to a whole new level. The creamy cheese sauce, combined with tender lobster, creates a mouthwatering experience. I experimented with various cheeses, finally settling on a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère for its nutty undertones and meltiness. The balance of flavors completely transformed the dish!

One trick I found essential was ensuring the pasta is al dente before mixing it with the rich cheese sauce. This way, it holds its structure while baking, resulting in the perfect texture in each cup. Additionally, a sprinkle of panko on top creates a delightful crunch that beautifully contrasts the creamy filling. I guarantee these will become a favorite for any special occasion!

        Why You Will Love These Cups
        Decadent lobster paired with rich cheese sauce
Crispy topping adds an enjoyable crunch
Perfect for gatherings and special occasions

      

The Key to Perfectly Creamy Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is the heart of these lobster mac and cheese cups, playing a vital role in achieving that creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the pasta and lobster. Start by melting the butter over medium heat; avoid high heat to prevent burning. When whisking in the flour, you want it to form a roux that cooks for just about a minute, ensuring it doesn't take on a metallic taste. If it begins to clump, lower the heat and keep whisking vigorously to incorporate smoothly.

Adding the milk gradually is crucial for a lump-free sauce. Incorporate it slowly while continuously whisking to achieve that glossy, thickened texture. Once thickened, stir in the cheeses until melted - using a mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyère adds depth and complexity to the sauce. Gruyère brings a nutty note that complements the richness of the cheddar. Be sure not to season with salt until after adding the cheese, as both cheeses are naturally salty.

Tips for Assembling and Baking

When assembling the cups, filling each muffin tin nearly to the top allows for a satisfying puff as they bake, creating a deliciously airy structure. Using a greased muffin tin is essential to prevent sticking. If you don't have a muffin tin, consider using silicone molds for easier removal. The panko breadcrumbs create a delightful crunch, so don't skip on this topping. Toss the breadcrumbs with a drizzle of melted butter for an extra crisp and flavorful finish.

Baking times may vary slightly based on your oven, so keep an eye on visual cues. Look for a golden brown top and bubbly edges; this usually takes about 15-20 minutes. If you prefer a deeper browning, you can broil them for a minute or two at the end, just be cautious not to burn them. Once baked, allowing the cups to cool briefly will help them set up, making removal effortless.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect lobster mac and cheese cups:

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped
1/4 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for a smooth experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious lobster mac and cheese cups:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until thickened.

Remove from heat and add the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked macaroni, chopped lobster, paprika, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce, stirring until well combined.

Assemble Cups

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon the lobster mac and cheese mixture into greased muffin tins, filling each cup nearly to the top. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over each cup.

Bake

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy. Allow to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing from the muffin tins.

Enjoy your lobster mac and cheese cups fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice over the finished cups before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These lobster mac and cheese cups are perfect for making ahead of time. After assembling the cups, you can cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to two days before baking. This is a great way to save time on the day of an event. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if you’re baking them straight from the fridge—adding an extra 5 minutes should suffice to ensure they heat through completely.

If you're looking to store leftovers, these cups can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore the crispy top while warming them through. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the cups soggy.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to play with flavors to suit your taste. For a spicier kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. Mixing in some cooked spinach or sun-dried tomatoes can also elevate the dish, adding layers of flavor and nutrition. If lobster isn't your thing, this recipe is versatile enough to use crab meat or shrimp – just adjust the cooking time if necessary to ensure the seafood is perfectly cooked.

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace the lobster with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables. Keep the cheese sauce intact, as its richness beautifully complements the umami flavors of mushrooms. Just make sure that any substitutions you make blend well with the cheese to maintain that luxurious taste you want in each cup.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cups ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the mixture and assemble the cups, then refrigerate them. Bake just before serving.

→ What type of lobster should I use?

You can use either fresh cooked lobster or pre-packaged lobster meat, depending on availability.

→ Can I substitute the cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses for a unique flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.