Nothing quite compares to the richness of homemade lobster mac and cheese. It’s crispy on top, ooey-gooey on the inside, and loaded with chunks of sweet and succulent lobster meat.
Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
But what to serve with lobster mac and cheese to balance out the richness and take it to the next level? While mac and cheese essentially work as a standalone meal, it always helps to have some complementary sides.
As a professional chef and experienced cook, I have compiled a list of the best side dishes to serve with lobster mac and cheese.
From fresh salads to savory roasted vegetables, these complementary dishes will elevate your meal and leave your guests wanting more.
What is Lobster Mac and Cheese? What does Lobster Mac and Cheese taste like?
Lobster Mac and Cheese is a decadent twist on the classic macaroni and cheese dish. It is made with creamy cheese sauce, succulent lobster meat, and elbow macaroni.
The resulting dish is a comforting yet sophisticated comfort food. The subtle sweetness of the lobster meat balances out the richness of the cheese sauce, creating a delectable flavor profile.
The appearance is smooth and creamy with a hint of crunch from the al dente macaroni. This decadent dish can be enjoyed as an entree or side dish.
Taste-wise, Lobster Mac and Cheese have an intense cheesy flavor with subtle hints of sweet lobster meat throughout.
There is also an interesting contrast between the velvety texture of the cheese sauce and the bite from the al dente macaroni pasta. All in all, it provides a truly indulgent combination that will leave you wanting more!
Best Sides to serve with lobster mac and cheese
1. Balsamic-Glazed Brussel Sprouts
Nothing quite beats the healthy and delicious taste of roasted Brussels sprouts. Add a balsamic glaze topped with chopped honey-roasted almonds for that extra touch of indulgence.
2. Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad is perfect for cutting through the richness of the mac and cheese. Add in some garlic croutons or capers for a bit of crunch!
3. Truffled French Fries
Add some pizzazz to your meal with some flavored French fries! Truffled fries work particularly well, as they bring out the natural flavors of the cheese.
4. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread, whether homemade or store-bought, is the perfect side to any pasta, making it a natural fit for Lobster Mac and Cheese.
5. Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is the perfect complement to the sweetness of the lobster mac and cheese. Mizzle with olive oil and a touch of salt, then grill until slightly charred.
6. Roasted Carrots
Another healthy and delicious option, roasted carrots offer a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the creaminess of mac and cheese. Coat with some honey or brown sugar to bring out their natural flavor.
7. Creamed Spinach
If you’re looking for something green to add to your plate, creamy spinach is the way to go.
The thick, silky texture works perfectly against the rich creaminess of the lobster mac and cheese.
8. Roasted Root Vegetables
Root vegetables are perfect for fall and winter meals. Roast them in some olive oil, salt, and pepper for a nutrient-dense and delicious side!
9. Tomato Salad
Fresh and light, tomato salad is perfect for balancing the decadent richness of the mac and cheese. Add some basil or balsamic vinaigrette to round out the flavors.
10. Garlic Roasted Mushrooms
Roasted mushrooms are perfect when cooked with garlic and some herbs. The earthiness of the mushrooms is a perfect balance with the sweet lobster in the mac and cheese.
11. Corn on the Cob
Nothing screams summer quite like sweet corn on the cob. Boiled and seasoned with butter and salt, this side dish offers some freshness to balance out the dish.
Discover More: Best Side Dishes to Serve with Corn on the Cob
12. Caesar Brussels Sprouts
Want the best of both worlds? Make Caesar salad meets Brussels sprouts!
Toss roasted Brussels sprouts with some Caesar dressing and parmesan cheese for a unique side dish that’s both indulgent and healthy.
13. Grilled Pineapple
A tropical addition to a classic mac and cheese, grilled pineapple offers a sweet tanginess that can’t be beaten. Drizzle with honey and whipped cream for that extra oomph!
14. Creamy Coleslaw
Coleslaw offers a bit of crunch to your meal, making it essential whenever you’re making something heavy or creamy. Plus, it’s light enough to balance the mac and cheese without overpowering it.
15. Broccoli Salad
Another healthy option, broccoli salad, offers some zing to the mix. With its creamy mayo and tart cranberries, the dish can cut through the richness of the mac and cheese.
16. Arugula Salad
A simple arugula salad dressed with a bright vinaigrette is the perfect way to lighten up your lobster mac and cheese meal. Arugula’s peppery flavor nicely balances the mac and cheese.
17. Garlic Green Beans
Sauté some fresh green beans in minced garlic and butter for a quick and simple side dish.
The garlic flavor adds a nice contrast to the cheese, while the green beans make for a refreshing and nutritious complement.
18. Brussel Sprouts
Roasted or sautéed, Brussels sprouts are a perfect and versatile complement to the dish. Their nutty and bitter flavor helps balance out the richness of the mac and cheese..
19. Fruit salad
A refreshing fruit salad is a great counterpoint to the heavy and rich flavors of mac and cheese.
The sweetness and acidity of the fruits help to level out the richness of the mac and cheese.
20. Grilled Shrimp
Grilled shrimp is a perfect complement to lobster mac and cheese. The seafood taste is exquisite with the cheesy appurtenance, which gives a taste of paradise.
Explore More: Best Sides to Serve with Shrimp Salad
21. Pan-seared Scallops
Pan-seared scallops are a fantastic alternative to lobster and can be the perfect side dish. (Recipe)
The tender and sweet texture of the scallops pair beautifully with the creamy and cheesy mac and cheese.
22. Stuffed Mushrooms
Cheesy, herbed stuffed mushrooms are an excellent side dish for mac and cheese.
The earthy and tender mushroom taste, paired with a savory cheese filling, makes for a delicious complement to lobster mac and cheese.
Find Out More: What to serve with stuffed mushrooms
23. Mashed Potatoes
The classic mashed potatoes, seasoned to perfection with a creamy texture and packed with flavors, are the final touch to complete lobster mac and cheese.
Potatoes pair well with the mild, cheesy flavor of the mac and cheese to create a satisfying, filling meal.
best salad to pair with Lobster Mac and Cheese
1. Spinach and Arugula Salad
Spinach and Arugula is a nutrient-packed salad & a great accompaniment to Lobster Mac and Cheese, as the peppery flavor of the arugula provides a nice contrast to the creamy richness of the dish.
The spinach adds an added layer of texture and flavor, while the addition of a light dressing keeps it from being too heavy.
2. Watermelon Radish Salad
Adding sweetness to balance out the richness of Lobster Mac & Cheese, this refreshing salad brings crisp watermelon radishes to the table along with crunchy walnuts and tangy feta cheese. Drizzle on a light vinaigrette before serving for the perfect summer side dish.
3. Orange Fennel Salad
Combining juicy oranges with crunchy fennel makes for an unforgettable side dish to accompany Lobster Mac & Cheese.
A light honey mustard vinaigrette ties together all of the flavors in this unique salad while adding just enough acidity to cut through any heaviness of the pasta dish.
4. Tomato Cucumber Salad
This classic Mediterranean-style salad pairs perfectly with Lobster Mac & Cheese, as its tomatoes add a touch of acidity that helps keep it from getting too heavy or rich.
Adding cucumbers gives it a bit more texture and flavor while also providing some extra hydration to keep you full long after your meal.
5. Avocado Kale Salad
For something hearty yet healthy, try pairing your Lobster Mac & Cheese with an avocado kale salad for a complete meal experience.
The rich creaminess from the avocados balances out any heaviness from the macaroni and cheese, while kale adds some interesting texture and nutrients to every bite!
What are the best flavors to go with Lobster Mac and Cheese?
Adding Lobster Mac and Cheese to your meal can be a great way to make it more indulgent and special. It pairs perfectly with many different flavors, allowing you to customize the dish for any palate.
For a creamy dish like this one, some of the best flavors to accompany it would be garlic, fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy flavor, and buttery white wines like sauvignon blanc or pinot gris.
A spicy kick can also add depth to the dish – consider adding cayenne pepper or horseradish for a subtle zing of heat.
Lastly, don’t forget about the sweetness of lobster – incorporating ingredients that have natural sweetness will help level out the richness of the mac and cheese.
Try adding sweet onions, bell peppers, carrots, and/or celery for a slightly sweet crunch.
By carefully selecting these complimentary ingredients and flavors, you’ll be able to create a savory Lobster Mac and Cheese that is sure to please all palates!
How do you jazz up Lobster Mac and Cheese?
Lobster Mac and Cheese is a decadent and indulgent dish that can be jazzed up in a variety of ways.
One way to do so is by using a variety of cheeses, such as Gruyère, sharp cheddar, Gouda, or Brie.
Adding in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, oregano, or parsley can also add an extra layer of flavor.
If you want to add some crunch to the dish, try sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes on top or adding some crispy fried onions for texture.
For those looking for an extra kick of spice, try adding in a splash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños.
To make it even more luxurious, use fresh lobster meat instead of canned or frozen—it will add succulent sweetness to your dish!
Lastly, don’t forget the butter! Adding it into the mix gives the mac and cheese an irresistible creamy richness. With these tips in mind, you can easily create a delicious and satisfying Lobster Mac and Cheese that will be sure to impress all your dinner guests!
How do you display Lobster Mac and Cheese on a platter?
To display Lobster Mac and Cheese on a platter, start by arranging the cooked macaroni noodles in an even layer on the plate.
Then, top it with generous chunks of lobster meat mixed with a creamy cheese sauce.
Garnish with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and color. Serve warm, and enjoy!
What main dish goes with mac and cheese
A classic main dish to go with mac and cheese is a juicy, tender steak. Grilling or pan-frying the perfect cut of steak, such as ribeye or sirloin, complements the creamy and cheesy taste of mac and cheese.
If you want to take it up a notch, try seasoning your steak with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme and paprika before cooking it.
To finish it off, add some steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables on the side for even more flavor.
Learn More: World’s Best Sauces To go with Lobster Ravioli
lobster mac and cheese dinner menu
Lobster mac and cheese is a mouth-watering dish that can add a nudge of sophistication to any dinner party. Impress your guests with these 10 amazing lobster mac and cheese recipes.
1. Classic Lobster Macaroni and Cheese
This hearty dish combines the flavors of fresh lobster, salty cheese, and creamy Alfredo sauce for an unforgettable meal.
2. Lobster Mac & Cheese au Gratin
Layer shredded cheddar cheese and buttery crackers atop a creamy mixture of cooked lobster, macaroni, and white sauce for an extra-special twist on mac and cheese.
3. Lobster Baked Mac
Combine macaroni, diced lobster tail, cream cheese, sharp cheddar, bacon crumbles, and panko breadcrumbs for a crispy baked dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
4. Spicy Lobster Mac & Cheese
Add some heat to your dinner party with this spicy combination of jalapenos, cream cheese, fontina cheese, cheddar jack cheese, bacon bits, diced lobster meat, and cavatappi noodles.
5. Bacon-Wrapped Lobster Mac & Cheese
Give your guests something extra special with these individual servings of creamy macaroni topped with shredded sharp cheddar cheese, all wrapped in bacon strips!
6. Creamy Lobster Carbonara Mac & Cheese
Enjoy the flavors of Italy combined with succulent lobster in this version featuring fettuccine noodles tossed in a cheesy egg yolk sauce for added richness!
7. Lobster Stuffed Shells Mac & Cheese
These enormous shells are filled with tender bites of lobster paired with ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, then covered in a creamy cheddar-parmesan sauce for maximum flavor!
8. Chipotle Lobster Mac & Cheese Bake
For those who like it hot, this smoky Chipotle version will leave your taste buds tingling! Spike your classic macaroni recipe with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for an added kick!
9. Crab Cake Topped Lobster Mac & Cheese
Take your seafood game up a notch by topping off this creamy mixture of cooked lobster tail meat and elbow noodles with crunchy fried crab cakes!
10. Four-Cheese Truffle Lobster Mac & Cheese
Indulge yourself (and your guests) by combining four types of cheeses (cheddar jack parmesan boursin) into one smooth truffle sauce, then adding chunks of cooked lobster meat to make it even more luxurious!
Find Out More: What Salad Goes with Lobster Ravioli
Wrap Up on what to serve with lobster mac and cheese.
In conclusion, the best side dishes to serve with lobster mac and cheese are those that balance out the richness and bring even more flavor and texture to the table.
From fresh salads to roasted vegetables to creamy sauces, the possibilities are endless.
I hope this list has inspired you to step outside of your routine and create a tasty, delicious and memorable meal for you and your guests. Enjoy!
FAQs
How much Lobster Mac and Cheese per person?
For a delicious serving of Lobster Mac and Cheese, we recommend about one cup per person.
This amount should be enough to allow each guest to enjoy the cheesy, creamy sauce along with the succulent lobster pieces.
Be sure to have extra on hand, as some guests may prefer a larger portion!
To ensure that your Lobster Mac and Cheese is perfectly cooked every time, add the cheese in small batches until it’s reached your desired consistency. Serve with a crisp green salad and crusty bread to balance the meal.
What wine goes with Lobster Mac and Cheese?
A full-bodied white wine, such as Chardonnay, pairs deliciously with Lobster Mac and Cheese.
Its creamy texture and toasty oak notes will complement the creaminess of the dish, while its acidity will also help to cut through the richness of the cheese.
Similarly, a buttery Viognier is an excellent choice for its tropical fruit aromas and rich body.
If you’re looking for something light and crisp to go with your Lobster Mac and Cheese, a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would be ideal.
They both have citrus and herbal notes that are great for cutting through the richness of the dish. Whichever you decide to choose, it’s sure to be a delicious pairing!
What meat goes with Lobster Mac and Cheese?
Lobster Mac and Cheese is a luxurious, rich dish that goes ideally with a variety of meats.
Topping the dish with bacon adds some crunch and smokiness while adding grilled chicken or shrimp brings in more seafood flavor.
For those looking to make their meal even heartier, adding seared scallops brings a delicate sweetness that compliments the lobster and cheese elements of the dish.
Alternatively, for some who prefer something a bit lighter, pairing Lobster Mac and Cheese with grilled vegetables or even a simple salad can also be a delicious option.
What restaurants serve Lobster Mac and Cheese?
Lobster Mac and Cheese is a popular dish offered at many upscale restaurants.
It typically consists of macaroni noodles mixed with a creamy cheese sauce and chunks of lobster meat. The dish can also be topped with breadcrumbs for an added crunch.
One restaurant known for its Lobster Mac and Cheese is Bob Chinn’s Crab House in Wheeling, Illinois.
They offer a version of the dish that includes lobster tail, prawns, scallops, mushrooms, peas, and three different types of cheeses.
Other notable places to try Lobster Mac and Cheese include Legal Sea Foods in Boston, Massachusetts;
The Oceanaire Seafood Room in Minneapolis, Minnesota; Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse in multiple locations across the U.S.;
Red Lobster in numerous locations around the world; The Cheesecake Factory in multiple states; and Ocean Prime in multiple cities throughout the United States.
What protein goes with lobster mac and cheese?
Lobster mac and cheese is a classic comfort food dish that combines the rich, creamy flavor of macaroni and cheese with succulent lobster meat.
A popular option for pairing with this dish is a protein such as shrimp or crab. Both proteins can add an element of sweetness and texture to the dish while still allowing the flavors of cheese and lobster to shine through.
For added flavor, consider adding herbs such as parsley, chives, or garlic powder to complement the flavors of the seafood and cheese.
You could also add some vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, for more color and crunch.
What vegetable goes with ham and mac and cheese?
Ham and macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that is both hearty and savory.
A perfect accompaniment to this dish can be a side of roasted broccoli. Roasting the broccoli brings out its natural sweetness, creating an excellent contrast to the richness of the ham and creamy cheese sauce.
Additionally, broccoli provides plenty of essential vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for your meal.
If you’d like to add some extra flavor, give the broccoli a quick toss in olive oil or melted butter before roasting for five minutes at 400°F.
This simple side dish will nicely complement the flavors of ham and macaroni and cheese while providing some fiber-rich nutrition to your meal.