This Lager Lobster Mac & Cheese is a creamy, over-the-top version of the classic — loaded with buttery lobster, melty cheese, and a splash of crisp lager that adds just enough depth to keep it interesting.

It’s the kind of dish that screams special occasion but is shockingly easy to make.
Perfect for holidays, date nights, or just treating yourself like the luxury you are.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (elbows, cavatappi, or shells)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• ¾ cup lager (or a golden ale — light and smooth)
• ¾ cup whole milk or half & half
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 1½ cups shredded sharp white cheddar
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère or fontina
• ½ cup Parmesan, grated
• 1½ cups cooked lobster meat, chopped (claw & tail combo = gold)
• Optional: 1 tbsp fresh tarragon or parsley, chopped

For the topping (optional but highly recommended):

• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tbsp Parmesan
• Pinch of paprika or Old Bay seasoning

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook pasta in salted water until just shy of al dente.

Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Lager Cheese Sauce

• In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
• Slowly whisk in lager and milk. Simmer until slightly thickened — about 3–5 minutes.

Add mustard, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Reduce heat to low and stir in cheeses one handful at a time until melted and smooth.

Step 3: Add the Lobster

Gently fold in the cooked lobster and the drained pasta.

Stir to coat everything in that golden, cheesy goodness.

Step 4 (Optional): Bake with Crunch

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Pour mac into a greased baking dish.
• Mix panko, melted butter, Parmesan, and paprika/Old Bay. Sprinkle over the top.
• Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve With:
  • A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
  • Roasted asparagus or broccolini
  • Warm sourdough or herbed beer bread
• Top With:
  • Extra lobster chunks
  • Chopped herbs
  • A squeeze of lemon for brightness

Beer Pairing

• In the sauce:
  • Helles lager
  • Golden ale
  • Cream ale or Kölsch
• On the side:
  • The same lager you cooked with
  • A lightly hopped pale ale for contrast
  • A dry hard cider for a refreshing pairing

Final Thoughts

Lager Lobster Mac & Cheese is indulgent, elegant, and just the right amount of over-the-top.

It’s rich, creamy, buttery, and beer-laced — basically the adult version of mac & cheese your inner child and your beer fridge can agree on.

Cheers to beer, butter, and lobster in every bite! 🧀🦞🍺

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