Lobster mac and cheese is a delicious combination of creamy, cheesy pasta and sweet lobster meat. When pairing proteins with this dish, you’ll want to choose options that complement, rather than overpower, the rich flavors of the mac and cheese. Here are some of the best meat options to serve alongside lobster mac and cheese.
Seafood
Seafood is a natural pairing for lobster mac and cheese. The sweet brininess of the lobster pairs perfectly with other types of shellfish and white fish. Here are some great seafood options:
- Shrimp: Buttery shrimp complement the richness of the cheese sauce beautifully. Go for grilled or sauteed shrimp.
- Scallops: Seared or grilled scallops add texture and extra flavor to the dish.
- Crab: Lump crab meat is delicious with lobster mac. You can add some right into the mac and cheese or serve crab cakes on the side.
- Cod: Bake, grill, or pan sear cod fillets to serve alongside the pasta.
- Halibut: Flaky, mild halibut makes a light pairing for the pasta.
Chicken
Chicken is a popular pairing with mac and cheese. The mild flavor of chicken complements, rather than competes with, the lobster and cheese. Here are some great ways to prepare chicken:
- Grilled chicken breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be lightly seasoned and grilled or pan-seared to pair with the pasta.
- Chicken tenders: Crispy, breaded chicken tenders are a fun pairing for the mac and cheese, especially for kids.
- Rotisserie chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken mixed right into the pasta is easy and delicious.
- Chicken sausage: Cooked chicken sausage links or patties paired with the lobster mac make it a heartier meal.
Pork
Pork is another mild, versatile option that pairs well with cheesy pasta. Here are some recommended pork choices:
- Pork chops: Pan-seared or grilled pork chops complement the richness of the dish.
- Prosciutto: Slices of prosciutto add saltiness and crunch when crumbled on top of the finished mac and cheese.
- Ham: Diced ham can be mixed right into the pasta for extra flavor and texture.
- Bacon: Crispy cooked bacon crumbled on top adds smokiness and crunch.
Beef
Heartier meats like beef can stand up to the strong flavors of lobster mac. Leaner cuts are best. Here are some options:
- Filet mignon: A grilled or pan-seared filet is a classy pairing for lobster mac.
- Flank steak: Thinly sliced, rare flank steak complements the richness nicely.
- Meatballs: Pan-fried beef or turkey meatballs can be served on the side.
- Ground beef: Cooked ground beef can be mixed into the mac and cheese or served atop it.
Lamb
The rich, meaty flavor of lamb makes an excellent match for lobster mac. Cuts like chops and leg of lamb hold up well. You can also go for ground lamb cooked into meatballs or patties. Try to avoid gamier cuts of lamb like shanks when pairing with this dish.
Turkey
Turkey is a lighter meat option that pairs nicely with the pasta. Ground turkey, turkey cutlets, or roast turkey slices or shreds can all complement the lobster mac well. Leaner, milder turkey meat lets the lobster and cheese flavors shine.
Vegetarian Options
You can also prepare delicious vegetarian mains to accompany lobster mac and cheese. Here are some ideas:
- Grilled portobello mushrooms
- Vegetable kabobs
- Roasted cauliflower or Brussels sprouts
- Asparagus
- Grilled eggplant
- Vegetable fritters
Tips for Pairings
Here are some useful tips for pairing meats and other mains with lobster mac and cheese:
- Choose lighter meats like chicken, fish, pork, and turkey so the lobster and cheese flavors aren’t overpowered.
- In general, leaner cuts of red meats like filet mignon and flank steak work better than fattier cuts.
- Lightly season meats to complement, rather than compete with, the cheesy flavors.
- Consider mixing meats like ham, sausage, or bacon right into the mac and cheese.
- Get creative with preparations – try grilling, roasting, pan searing, breading, etc. to switch up textures.
- Serve any sauces or extra seasonings on the side to let diners adjust flavors themselves.
With so many diverse flavors and textures to work with, the possibilities for pairing meats and other proteins with lobster mac and cheese are endless. From seafood to chicken to vegetarian options, you can create a hearty, delicious surf and turf meal perfect for any occasion.
Sample Pairing Menus
Here are some sample full menus with different meat pairings for lobster mac and cheese:
Surf and Turf Menu
- Lobster mac and cheese
- Seared sirloin steak
- Sauteed green beans
- Wedge salad with blue cheese dressing
- Warm bread
Classic American Menu
- Lobster mac and cheese
- Fried chicken tenders
- Corn on the cob
- Coleslaw
- Biscuits
Mediterranean Menu
- Lobster mac and cheese
- Grilled chicken breast
- Sauteed spinach
- Greek salad
- Garlic bread
New England Feast
- Lobster mac and cheese
- Pan seared scallops
- Steamed mussels
- Corn and clam chowder
- Warm rolls
kid-Friendly Menu
- Lobster mac and cheese
- Crispy chicken tenders
- Tater tots
- Corn on the cob
- Fruit salad
Conclusion
Lobster mac and cheese makes a rich, indulgent centerpiece to any meal. Pairing it with lighter proteins like fish, chicken, pork and vegetables allows the lobster and cheese flavors to really shine. Consider mixing in meats like ham or sausage or topping the pasta with bacon or prosciutto for extra flavor. With so many diverse meat and vegetable pairings to choose from, you can create the perfect complement to this decadent pasta dish. Serve up lobster mac and cheese along with your favorite proteins for a hearty and satisfying meal.