Get ready to indulge in a culinary extravaganza with these succulent whole lobster recipes. Whether you’re looking for a decadent special occasion dish or a impressive dinner party centerpiece, we’ve got you covered. From classic butter-basted bakes to spicy seafood boils and creamy pasta dishes, our collection of 18 mouthwatering whole lobster recipes is sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
In this article, we’ll be exploring a range of creative and delicious ways to prepare whole lobsters, from elegant presentation-worthy dishes like Garlic Butter Baked Whole Lobster and Steamed Whole Lobster with Drawn Butter, to bold and flavorful options like Lobster Fra Diavolo with Spicy Tomato Sauce and Lobster Boil with Corn and Potatoes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to experiment with new recipes, these whole lobster recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
Garlic Butter Baked Whole Lobster
Experience the rich flavor of a perfectly cooked whole lobster with this simple and indulgent recipe. This Garlic Butter Baked Whole Lobster recipe is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 whole lobsters (depending on size)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the lobsters under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
4. Place the lobsters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, shell side up.
5. Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each lobster, making sure to cover the entire surface.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until the meat is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 18-30 minutes (depending on size of lobsters)
Grilled Whole Lobster with Lemon Herb Sauce
Elevate your summer gatherings with this elegant and flavorful whole lobster dish. The bright, citrusy flavor of the lemon herb sauce perfectly complements the rich sweetness of the grilled lobster.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 lb) whole lobster
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the lobster under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, and chives.
4. Brush the lobster with the lemon herb sauce, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Place the lobster on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the shell is bright red and the meat is opaque.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Steamed Whole Lobster with Drawn Butter
Enjoy a luxurious dining experience with this simple recipe for steaming whole lobsters to perfection, served with a rich and buttery accompaniment.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 whole lobsters (depending on size)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lobsters under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Fill a large pot or steamer basket with about an inch of salted water.
3. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat and cover.
4. Place the lobsters in the steamer, leaving some space between each.
5. Steam for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until the shells turn bright red and the meat is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Remove the lobsters from the pot, and serve immediately.
Drawn Butter:
1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
2. Serve melted butter alongside the steamed lobster, with lemon wedges on the side (if desired).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes per pound
Whole Lobster Thermidor with Gruyère Cheese
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent Whole Lobster Thermidor, infused with the rich flavors of Gruyère cheese. This indulgent dish is perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat.
Ingredients:
• 1 whole lobster (1-1.5 lbs), split and butterflied
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse lobster under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix flour, butter, and Gruyère cheese until well combined.
4. Stuff the lobster cavity with the Gruyère mixture, dividing it evenly between the two halves.
5. Place the lobster on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound or until the lobster is cooked through and the cheese is golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-30 minutes
Lobster Fra Diavolo with Spicy Tomato Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of succulent lobster paired with a bold and spicy tomato sauce, perfect for a special occasion or romantic dinner. This recipe combines the elegance of lobster with the heat of fra diavolo, creating a dish that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lobster meat (thawed)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup fra diavolo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add lobster meat; cook for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes and fra diavolo sauce; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Lobster Roll with Toasted Brioche
Experience the luxurious taste of fresh lobster in a soft, buttery brioche roll. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 2 whole lobsters (1 1/2 to 2 pounds each), cooked and chilled
– 4 slices of brioche bread
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the broiler.
2. Split the brioche slices in half lengthwise.
3. Butter each brioche half with 1/4 teaspoon of softened butter.
4. Place the lobster meat on top of the buttered brioche, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle garlic and lemon juice over the lobster.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the brioche rolls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted.
8. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lobster Newburg with Sherry Cream Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of the sea with this decadent Lobster Newburg dish, elevated by a creamy sherry sauce. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lobster meat (fresh or frozen, thawed)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay)
– 2 tablespoons sherry
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously; bring to a simmer.
4. Add white wine, sherry, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Stir in lobster meat; cook for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Whole Lobster Paella with Saffron Rice
Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this mouthwatering Whole Lobster Paella recipe, featuring succulent lobster meat cooked to perfection in a flavorful saffron-infused rice dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole lobster (1.5-2 pounds), head and shell intact
– 1 cup uncooked Calasparra or Spanish short-grain rice
– 2 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 cup mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the lobster in boiling water for 5-7 minutes or until just cooked through.
3. Heat oil in a large paella pan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add rice, stirring to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture.
5. Add warmed broth, soaked saffron, and mixed seafood. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lobster Bisque with Roasted Shells
This decadent bisque is a perfect blend of succulent lobster, aromatic spices, and roasted shells. A flavorful and indulgent treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat (claw and body)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Roasted shells (see below)
Roasting Shells:
– Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Rinse 12-15 lobster shells with water, pat dry.
– Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
– Roast for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
Bisque Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Sprinkle flour, paprika, salt, and pepper; whisk to combine.
3. Gradually add heavy cream and whole milk; whisk until smooth.
4. Add lobster meat; simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Stir in roasted shells; serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Lobster Stir-Fry with Ginger and Scallions
Experience the luxurious flavor of whole lobster with this simple and flavorful stir-fry recipe, infused with the warmth of ginger and the crunch of scallions.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole lobster (about 1.5 pounds), head and body intact
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced into thin strips
– 4 scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lobster under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced ginger and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add the scallions and cook for an additional minute, until slightly softened.
5. Add the garlic and cook for 15 seconds, until fragrant.
6. Add the lobster to the skillet, head down, and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
7. Remove the lobster from the heat and serve with soy sauce and sesame oil.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese with Truffle Oil
Elevate the classic comfort dish by adding luxurious lobster meat and truffle oil to create a rich, creamy macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz macaroni
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup lobster meat (cooked and flaked)
– 1 tsp truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Add cooked lobster meat and truffle oil. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese mixture. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Whole Lobster Salad with Avocado and Citrus Dressing
Whole Lobster Salad with Avocado and Citrus Dressing
This refreshing salad combines succulent lobster meat with creamy avocado, tangy citrus, and crunchy greens for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole lobster (about 1 pound), cooked and chilled
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine lobster meat, avocado, orange juice, olive oil, and garlic.
2. Toss gently to combine, being careful not to break up the lobster.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide mixed greens among four plates or bowls.
5. Top each plate with lobster-avocado mixture.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Just assemble and serve.
Lobster Risotto with White Wine and Parmesan
Experience the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this decadent lobster risotto dish, perfectly balanced by white wine and the nutty notes of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/2 pound lobster meat, diced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add the white wine, stirring until absorbed.
4. Continue cooking, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, stirring until each portion is fully absorbed before adding the next.
5. Stir in the lobster meat and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Whole Lobster Boil with Corn and Potatoes
This recipe yields a flavorful and satisfying seafood boil, perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings. With its rich aroma and tender texture, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 2 whole lobsters (1 1/2 to 2 pounds each)
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and halved
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1 gallon water
– Lemon wedges and melted butter for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot or boiler with the water, Old Bay seasoning, and kosher salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
3. Add the lobsters, corn, and potatoes to the pot.
4. Cook for 8-10 minutes per pound of lobster, or until they turn bright red and are cooked through.
5. Remove the seafood from the pot with tongs and serve hot with lemon wedges and melted butter (if desired).
Cooking Time: approximately 15-20 minutes
Lobster Alfredo Pasta with Garlic Bread
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent Lobster Alfredo recipe, paired with crispy garlic bread for a match made in heaven. This dish is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
For the pasta:
– 12 oz fettuccine
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup lobster meat (fresh or frozen)
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the garlic bread:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp dried parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add lobster meat and cook until heated through.
4. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta with lobster mixture; toss to coat.
6. For the garlic bread, mix softened butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Spread on baguette slices and bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Whole Lobster Tacos with Mango Salsa
Get ready to elevate your taco game with this mouthwatering combination of succulent whole lobster, crispy tortillas, and a zesty mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) whole lobster, cooked and split
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa ingredients (below)
– Lime wedges, for serving
– Cilantro leaves, for garnish
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Split lobster in half lengthwise; brush with melted butter and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill lobster for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly charred.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing lobster pieces onto tortillas; top with Mango Salsa, lime wedges, and cilantro leaves.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including grilling time)
Lobster Pot Pie with Flaky Pastry Crust
This rich and indulgent pot pie combines succulent lobster meat with a creamy sauce, topped with a buttery flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
4. Stir in lobster meat, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
5. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with lobster mixture and cover with pastry.
6. Crimp edges to seal and cut a few slits for steam release.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Whole Lobster Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro
Experience the rich flavors of a tropical paradise with this refreshing Whole Lobster Ceviche, infused with zesty lime juice and fragrant cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole lobster (about 1 pound)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1-2 dashes hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lobster under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. Cut the lobster into large chunks and place them in a shallow dish or glass bowl.
3. Pour the lime juice over the lobster, making sure each piece is coated.
4. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro evenly over the lobster.
5. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, season with salt to taste. If desired, add hot sauce for an extra kick.
Cooking Time: None – this is a raw dish!
Enjoy your Whole Lobster Ceviche as an appetizer or light meal, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate culinary experience with these 18 succulent whole lobster recipes. From classic baked and grilled options to creative twists like Lobster Roll with Toasted Brioche and Lobster Tacos with Mango Salsa, there’s something for every gourmet dinner. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or appetizer, these mouth-watering recipes will elevate your meal to new heights. Try Garlic Butter Baked Whole Lobster, Steamed Whole Lobster with Drawn Butter, or Lobster Thermidor with Gruyère Cheese – the possibilities are endless!
