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Lobster Mac and Cheese Bites

Lobster Mac and Cheese Bites
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Lobster Mac and Cheese Bites are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, combining tender lobster with rich mac and cheese in bite-sized pieces. Perfect as a decadent party appetizer or indulgent snack, these bites offer a gourmet twist on classic comfort food with a satisfying crunchy breadcrumb coating and a luscious cheesy center.

Ingredients

Seafood

  • Cooked lobster meat, 1 cup (fresh or thawed chunks)

Pasta

  • Elbow macaroni, 1 cup (uncooked)

Cheese Sauce

  • Sharp cheddar cheese, 1 1/2 cups shredded
  • Butter, 3 tablespoons
  • All-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons
  • Milk, 2 cups
  • Salt, 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon
  • Paprika, 1/4 teaspoon

Coating & Binding

  • Eggs, 2 large (beaten)
  • Breadcrumbs, 1 1/2 cups (panko recommended)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mac and Cheese Base: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is lightly golden and bubbly. Slowly add milk while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps, creating a smooth béchamel sauce. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  2. Fold in the Lobster Meat: Gently fold the cooked lobster chunks into the mac and cheese mixture, making sure the lobster is evenly distributed without breaking up the pieces. Allow the mixture to cool slightly to thicken and firm up for shaping.
  3. Form the Bites: Using clean hands or a small ice cream scoop, shape the lobster mac and cheese mixture into bite-sized balls approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the formed bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray.
  4. Coat and Prepare for Cooking: Beat eggs in a shallow bowl. Roll each bite in the egg wash, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs, ensuring they are completely covered. This double coating provides a crunchy exterior after cooking.
  5. Cook to Perfection: Fry the bites in hot oil (around 350°F / 175°C) for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy, or bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp.

Notes

  • Chill the mac and cheese mixture before shaping to help bites hold their shape.
  • Use fresh lobster meat whenever possible for optimal flavor and texture.
  • Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding and maintain oil temperature.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispy texture.
  • To keep leftovers crispy, store them layered with parchment paper in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Keywords: lobster, mac and cheese, appetizer, bites, party food, seafood, comfort food, crispy, cheesy

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/lobster-mac-and-cheese-bites/