Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese Recipe

A Taste of Indulgence: The Story of Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese

There are few dishes that evoke the same level of pure indulgence as Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese. This creamy, decadent creation has become a culinary icon, synonymous with upscale dining and unforgettable flavors.

The story of this beloved dish is intertwined with the history of Ruth’s Chris Steak House, a renowned establishment known for its commitment to quality ingredients and exceptional service. The restaurant’s founder, Ruth Fertel, envisioned a dish that would be both comforting and luxurious, a perfect complement to the restaurant’s signature steaks.

Over the years, Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese has captivated taste buds across the globe. Its rich, cheesy sauce, perfectly cooked lobster, and tender pasta create a symphony of textures and tastes that is simply irresistible.

Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese Recipe Card

A rich and indulgent twist on a classic comfort dish.

• Servings: 4-6
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Essential Ingredients:

• 240 g / 1 cup macaroni
• 120 g / 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 240 g / 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 120 g / 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large lobsters, cooked and diced (approx. 240 g / 1 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2% work well)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Temperature: Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.

Ingredients for Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese

To create an authentic, mouthwatering Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese, it’s essential to use high-quality components. This dish features succulent lobster, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce.

The following ingredients are necessary for this recipe:

• 240 g / 1 cup macaroni
• 120 g / 4 oz lobster meat, diced
• 60 g / 2 oz unsalted butter
• 60 g / 2 oz all-purpose flour
• 480 ml / 2 cups whole milk
• 120 g / 4 oz grated cheddar cheese
• 120 g / 4 oz grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional ingredients:
  • 10 g / 2 tsp paprika
  • 5 g / 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 20 g / 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

These ingredients will come together to create a decadent, creamy mac and cheese dish with the added luxury of lobster. Ensure all ingredients are fresh and of high quality to achieve the best results.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese

Follow these detailed steps to create a perfectly cooked, creamy lobster mac and cheese that rivals the famed Ruth’s Chris version.

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
   Add the macaroni and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente.
   Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. Make the cheese sauce: In a separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
   Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth.
   Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring frequently, and cook for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
4. Stir in the shredded cheeses, one at a time, until melted and smooth.
   Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard to taste.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, cheese sauce, and chopped cooked lobster in a large bowl.
   Stir gently to combine.
6. Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
   Sprinkle the top with the breadcrumbs.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Let the macaroni and cheese stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese

Mastering the ultimate comfort food requires finesse and attention to detail. Here are some expert tips to elevate your lobster mac and cheese game:

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente is key. A slightly firm texture will help the dish hold its creamy sauce.
• Use high-quality cheese: A blend of sharp cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyère will provide depth and richness.
• Don’t skimp on the lobster: Fresh, succulent chunks of lobster meat are essential. Aim for about 120g (4 oz) per serving.
• Make a roux, not a paste: Whisk the butter and flour together to create a smooth, even mixture that will thicken your sauce.
• Don’t overbake the top: A golden-brown crust is nice, but overbaking can dry out the mac and cheese. Keep an eye on it!
• Use a water bath for even cooking: This ensures the mac and cheese cooks consistently and prevents the top from burning.

Common pitfalls to avoid include overmixing the cheese sauce, underseasoning, and using low-quality cheese. By following these expert tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Ruth’s Chris-worthy lobster mac and cheese that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Substitutions and Alternatives for Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese

To accommodate various dietary restrictions and preferences, several ingredients in the Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese recipe can be substituted or altered.

For a gluten-free version, replace the 240 g / 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 120 g / 1/2 cup of gluten-free flour blend. When using gluten-free flour, reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe by 60 ml / 1/4 cup to maintain the desired consistency.

• Instead of 120 g / 4 oz of lobster meat, use 120 g / 4 oz of shrimp or scallops for a similar seafood flavor.
• For a vegetarian option, substitute the lobster meat with 120 g / 4 oz of roasted mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, and add an extra 15 g / 1 tablespoon of olive oil to enhance the flavor.
• To reduce the richness of the dish, use 60 g / 2 oz of reduced-fat cheddar cheese and 60 g / 2 oz of part-skim mozzarella cheese, which will lower the calorie count without significantly impacting the flavor.

These substitutions and alternatives allow for a more inclusive and flexible approach to enjoying the Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese recipe, while maintaining its signature flavor and creamy texture when baked at 200°C / 400°F for 20-25 minutes.

Creative Variations on Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese

Love the decadence of Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese but craving something a little different? Here are a few creative twists to elevate this classic dish:

1. Spicy Kick

Add a touch of heat with diced jalapeños (about 1-2) or a pinch of cayenne pepper. The heat will complement the richness of the lobster and cheese beautifully. Cook time remains the same, approximately 30 minutes.

2. Truffle Indulgence

Elevate the flavor profile with a drizzle of truffle oil (about 1 teaspoon) at the end. You can also add a few shaved black truffles for an extra luxurious touch. This variation takes about 30 minutes to prepare.

3. Bacon & Bourbon Twist

Combine smoky bacon with a hint of bourbon for a truly unique flavor combination. Crumble cooked bacon (about 100 g / 3.5 ounces) into the mac and cheese and stir in a tablespoon of bourbon before serving. Cook time remains around 30 minutes.

4. Roasted Garlic Goodness

Roast a whole head of garlic until soft and caramelized. Squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves and blend them into the cheese sauce for a mellow, savory depth of flavor. This variation takes about 40 minutes to prepare, including the garlic roasting time.

Storing and Reheating Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese

For the best flavor and texture, it’s essential to store and reheat your Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese correctly.

Short-Term Storage

Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before refrigerating it. Transfer the dish to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator at 4°C (39°F) or below for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerate at 4°C (39°F) or below.
• Consume within 3 days.

Long-Term Storage

Freeze the mac and cheese in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure the dish reaches a minimum internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) to ensure food safety.

• Freeze at -18°C (0°F) or below.
• Consume within 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat the mac and cheese in the oven or on the stovetop until it reaches a minimum internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat.

• Oven: 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes.
• Stovetop: Medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: 30-second intervals, checking temperature.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese

To ensure a stress-free cooking experience, it’s essential to be aware of common issues that may arise when preparing Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese. This dish, with its rich flavors and delicate balance of ingredients, can be sensitive to temperature and technique. Cooking the macaroni to the perfect doneness, usually between 8-10 minutes in boiling water at 100°C / 212°F, and the lobster to an internal temperature of 63°C / 145°F, is crucial.

Common Problems and Fixes

• Overcooked macaroni: Check the macaroni frequently during the cooking time, and drain when it still has a slight bite. Cooking time may vary based on the type of macaroni used, typically ranging between 8-12 minutes in boiling water at 100°C / 212°F.
• Underseasoned dish: Taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process. Add salt and pepper to taste, and consider adding more grated cheese (240 g / 1 cup) or lobster meat (120 g / 4 oz) for enhanced flavor.
• Curdling sauce: Ensure the sauce is heated gently over low heat (around 70°C / 158°F) and whisk constantly to prevent curdling. Adding a small amount of all-purpose flour (15 g / 1 tbsp) can help stabilize the sauce.
• Insufficient lobster flavor: Use high-quality lobster meat (120 g / 4 oz) and consider adding lobster bisque (60 ml / 2 fl oz) or seafood broth (120 ml / 4 fl oz) to intensify the flavor.

By being aware of these common issues and their solutions, you can confidently prepare a delicious and satisfying Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese, with its perfectly cooked macaroni, flavorful lobster, and rich, creamy sauce.

Nutritional Information

This decadent Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese is a true indulgence, but it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content.

One serving (approximately 240g/1 cup) provides approximately:

• Calories: 650
• Fat: 35g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 50g

This dish is rich in protein and carbohydrates, providing sustained energy. However, it’s also high in fat and calories, so enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.

Key Takeaways for Making Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese

To achieve a rich and creamy Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese, several essential lessons and reminders are crucial. First, select high-quality ingredients, including fresh lobster meat and a blend of cheeses like cheddar (240 g / 1 cup) and parmesan (120 g / 1/2 cup).

• Cook the macaroni al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during the baking process.
• Use a combination of grated and sliced cheeses for an even distribution of flavors and textures.
• Don’t overmix the cheese sauce, as this can lead to an unappealing texture.

When baking, maintain a consistent oven temperature of 190 °C / 375 °F to ensure the top layer is golden brown and the mac and cheese is heated through. By following these key takeaways and cooking reminders, a decadent and satisfying lobster mac and cheese dish, reminiscent of Ruth’s Chris, can be successfully prepared.

A Little Inspiration from Ruth’s Chris

This recipe is inspired by the legendary Lobster Mac and Cheese at Ruth’s Chris Steak House. I’ve been a fan for years, and I finally decided to try recreating it at home. It’s a bit of a labor of love, but the result is absolutely worth it. That creamy, cheesy sauce, combined with the sweet, tender lobster, is simply divine.

A Few Tips from My Kitchen

1. Don’t skimp on the cheese! I use a combination of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
2. Make sure your lobster is cooked properly. You want it to be tender and flaky.
3. Don’t overcook the pasta. It should be al dente, as it will continue to cook in the cheese sauce.

This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or just a cozy night in. Enjoy!

Conclusion: Enjoying Ruth’s Chris Lobster Mac and Cheese

After mastering this decadent recipe, you’ll be indulging in a rich, creamy dish that’s sure to become a new favorite. The combination of succulent lobster, perfectly cooked pasta, and a velvety cheese sauce is truly unbeatable.

We hope you’ve enjoyed bringing this Ruth’s Chris-inspired masterpiece to life in your own kitchen. Don’t stop there – explore more indulgent recipes to enhance your culinary repertoire, like our Creamy Crab Ravioli or decadent Truffle Mashed Potatoes.