This Lobster Pasta is a treat for seafood lovers! With tender pieces of lobster and a creamy sauce, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
I love whipping this up for special occasions or just because. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds! 🍽️
It’s surprisingly simple to make—just cook the pasta, sauté the lobster, and mix it all together. It’s fancy enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lobster: Fresh cooked lobster is the star here. If it’s not available, you can use crab or shrimp for a similar dish. Canned lobster meat can be a quicker alternative, but fresh always has the best flavor!
Pasta: Linguine and spaghetti work well, but feel free to swap in fettuccine or even a gluten-free pasta if you need a different option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can work as a substitute, but the consistency will be a bit different.
White wine: A dry white wine adds depth to the sauce. If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be a good alternative. Just reduce it a bit for that concentrated flavor.
How Do I Avoid Overcooking the Pasta?
Cooking pasta perfectly is crucial for a well-balanced dish. Here are some tips to ensure your pasta is just right:
- Always use plenty of salted water. It should taste like the sea!
- Follow the package instructions, but taste your pasta a minute or two before the suggested cooking time. You want it *al dente*, or firm to the bite.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water is great for adjusting sauce thickness later.
- After draining, don’t rinse your pasta; it washes away the starch that helps sauce stick!
This Lobster Pasta is sure to impress. Happy cooking!
How to Make Lobster Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lobster Pasta:
- 1 (1 1/2 to 2 lbs) cooked lobster, meat removed and chopped, plus claw pieces for garnish
- 12 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: pinch of red chili flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Lobster Pasta takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. Prep your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a luxurious meal without spending all day in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook the pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente. Be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. This will help adjust the sauce later!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallot. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they’re fragrant and translucent, but not browned.
3. Deglaze with Wine:
Pour the dry white wine into the skillet. Scrape the bottom to remove any tasty bits stuck there. Let the wine simmer for about 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Create the Cream Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Let the sauce simmer for around 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken a bit.
5. Add the Lobster:
Gently fold the chopped lobster meat into the sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes just to warm it through. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if you like a little heat.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Now, toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Mix well, adding reserved pasta water gradually to reach your desired sauce consistency.
7. Finish with Parmesan:
Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and smoothly combined with the sauce.
8. Serve & Garnish:
Plate up your Lobster Pasta! Garnish with claw pieces of lobster and chopped fresh parsley for a beautiful finish. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side for sprinkling.
Enjoy your elegant, creamy lobster pasta! It’s a wonderful dish for any occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Lobster for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen lobster! Make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. After thawing, chop it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the sauce.
What If I Don’t Have White Wine?
No problem! If you prefer not to use wine, substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth. Just reduce it slightly to concentrate the flavors and mimic the depth that wine provides.
How Can I Storing Leftover Lobster Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to refresh the sauce, as it may thicken upon refrigeration.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them just before serving. Add the lobster meat and heat gently for a quick meal!
