Are you looking to impress your guests at your next special occasion? Look no further than these decadent whole lobster recipes. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone birthday, anniversary, or just want to treat yourself and your loved ones to a luxurious meal, our collection of 20 mouth-watering whole lobster recipes is sure to satisfy.
From classic baked and steamed options to more adventurous grilled and stir-fried recipes, we’ve got you covered. And don’t worry if you’re not a seafood expert – each recipe includes easy-to-follow instructions and helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly. So go ahead, get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of the ocean, and make some unforgettable memories with these incredible whole lobster recipes.
Garlic Butter Baked Whole Lobster
Impress your dinner guests with this decadent Garlic Butter Baked Whole Lobster recipe, featuring succulent lobster meat infused with aromatic garlic butter and perfectly cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole lobster (1-2 lbs), shell intact
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the lobster under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff the garlic butter mixture into the lobster’s cavity.
5. Place the lobster on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, shell side up.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until the lobster is cooked through and flaky.
7. Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-45 minutes (depending on lobster size)
Grilled Whole Lobster with Lemon Herb Butter
Experience the ultimate seafood indulgence with this mouthwatering recipe, featuring a succulent whole lobster grilled to perfection and served with a zesty lemon herb butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) whole lobster
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– 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, mix together butter, garlic, lemon juice, and parsley until well combined.
4. Place the lobster on the grill, shell-side down. Close lid and cook for 8-10 minutes or until shells turn bright red.
5. Flip the lobster over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until meat is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Remove from heat and serve immediately with lemon herb butter.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Whole Lobster Thermidor with Gruyère Cheese
Experience the ultimate indulgence with this mouthwatering Whole Lobster Thermidor, elevated by the richness of Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole lobster (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the lobster under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add Gruyère cheese, white wine, lemon juice, and garlic; stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
4. Place the lobster in a baking dish and spoon the thermidor sauce evenly over the shell.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound or until the lobster is cooked through and the flesh is opaque white.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Steamed Whole Lobster with Drawn Butter
Savor the rich flavor of a perfectly steamed whole lobster, paired with a pat of warm drawn butter. This classic recipe is sure to impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 whole lobsters (depending on size)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lobster(s) under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the lobsters. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and bring to a boil.
3. Carefully place the lobster(s) into the boiling water, making sure they’re fully submerged.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and steam for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until the lobster reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Remove the lobsters from the pot with tongs and transfer to a plate.
6. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the steamed lobster(s) with drawn butter on the side. Garnish with parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes per pound
Whole Lobster Roll with Toasted Brioche
Whole Lobster Roll with Toasted Brioche Recipe
A decadent treat that’s sure to impress
This Whole Lobster Roll with Toasted Brioche is a show-stopping main course or special occasion centerpiece. Succulent lobster meat, toasted brioche, and a hint of lemon butter come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole lobster (about 2 lbs), cooked and chilled
– 4 slices of brioche bread
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the lobster meat into chunks and set aside.
3. Butter each brioche slice on both sides.
4. Place a brioche slice on a baking sheet, top with lobster meat, and drizzle with lemon juice.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 for remaining brioche slices.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until brioche is toasted and lobster is warmed through.
7. Serve immediately and garnish with parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lobster Fra Diavolo with Spicy Tomato Sauce
Lobster Fra Diavolo with Spicy Tomato Sauce: A decadent yet manageable recipe that combines the luxury of lobster with a bold and spicy tomato sauce, perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners.
Whole Lobster Paella with Saffron Rice
This Spanish-inspired paella recipe is a show-stopper, featuring succulent whole lobster claws and saffron-infused rice. Perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) whole lobster
– 2 cups uncooked Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse lobster under cold water; pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large skillet or paella pan, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add rice, chicken broth, saffron mixture, and salt. Stir to combine.
5. Arrange lobster claws on top of the rice mixture.
6. Transfer pan to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender and lobster cooked through.
7. Remove from oven; sprinkle with parsley. Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lobster Newburg with Creamy Sherry Sauce
Elevate your dining experience with this classic seafood dish, featuring succulent lobster meat cooked to perfection in a rich and creamy sherry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lobster meat (claw and body)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add lobster meat; cook for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Pour in cream, white wine, and sherry vinegar; stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish; bake for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Whole Lobster Bisque with Cognac
Savor the rich flavors of a decadent whole lobster bisque, elevated by the warmth and depth of cognac. This indulgent soup is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 2 whole lobsters (1 1/2 pounds each), shell removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cognac
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1 cup fish stock
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add cognac, white wine, fish stock, and lobster meat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender to puree until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese with Truffle Oil
Elevate your comfort food game with this decadent recipe that combines succulent lobster meat with creamy macaroni and cheese, infused with the deep flavor of truffle oil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup lobster meat, cooked and flaked
– 2 tsp truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Gruyère cheese until melted. Add lobster meat, truffle oil, salt, and pepper. Combine well.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese mixture. Mix until well coated.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whole Lobster Stir-Fry with Ginger and Scallions
Experience the luxurious taste of a whole lobster cooked to perfection in a savory stir-fry with the warmth of ginger and scallions.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole lobster (about 2 pounds), split lengthwise
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced into thin strips
– 4-6 scallions, trimmed to 2-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced ginger and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the scallions and garlic; stir-fry until they start to soften, about 1 minute.
4. Place the lobster pieces in the skillet, shell side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the shells turn bright red.
5. Flip the lobster over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from heat; season with soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lobster Risotto with White Wine and Parmesan
Elevate your dinner party with this decadent Lobster Risotto, infused with the richness of white wine and the creaminess of Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 pound lobster meat, diced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine and stir until absorbed.
5. Add 1/2 cup warmed chicken broth and stir until absorbed, repeating process 3-4 times.
6. Stir in lobster meat and cook for 1 minute.
7. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Lobster Salad with Avocado and Citrus Dressing
Experience the decadence of a whole lobster salad, elevated by creamy avocado and zesty citrus dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole lobster (about 2 pounds), cooked and chilled
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the lobster into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine the lobster, avocado, and citrus dressing (see below).
3. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Citrus Dressing:
1. Whisk together orange juice, grapefruit juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cook Time: None (assuming cooked lobster)
Lobster Pot Pie with Flaky Pastry Crust
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and indulgent lobster pot pie, featuring a flaky pastry crust and succulent chunks of lobster meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth.
5. Add lobster meat, cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.
6. Roll out puff pastry to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Fill with lobster mixture and brush edges of pastry with water.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whole Lobster Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the flavors of Mexico and the indulgence of fresh lobster in this unique and delicious recipe. A perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and savory, these Whole Lobster Tacos with Mango Salsa will be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 whole lobsters (about 1 pound each)
– 1/2 cup mango salsa (see below for recipe)
– 8 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges
– Cilantro leaves
– Salt and pepper
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse lobsters under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill or bake lobsters for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until they turn bright red and the meat is opaque.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp cloth and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing lobster meat onto tortillas, topping with mango salsa, and serving with lime wedges and cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lobster Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro
Elevate your ceviche game with this refreshing recipe featuring succulent lobster, zesty lime, and a hint of cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lobster meat (claw and body), diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 avocado, diced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine lobster meat, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
2. Stir gently to combine, making sure the lobster is coated evenly with the citrus and herb mixture.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in sliced red onion and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with diced avocado, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– 30 minutes marinating time
– Serve immediately after marinating
Whole Lobster Pasta with Garlic Cream Sauce
Treat yourself to a decadent yet elegant dinner with this indulgent pasta dish, featuring tender chunks of whole lobster meat and a rich garlic cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) whole lobster, cooked and torn into bite-sized pieces
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine or linguine)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, lobster meat, and garlic cream sauce. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster Chowder with Sweet Corn and Bacon
This recipe combines the sweetness of fresh corn, the smokiness of bacon, and the indulgent flavor of lobster for a truly decadent chowder.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup sweet corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Add butter to the same pot and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add lobster meat, sweet corn, flour, milk, and heavy cream to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chowder has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Lobster Kebabs with Garlic Butter Glaze
Experience the luxury of a whole lobster kebab, smothered in a rich garlic butter glaze that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 whole lobsters (1-1.5 lbs each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wood skewers for kebabing
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. Cut each lobster in half lengthwise, leaving the tail shell intact.
3. Thread lobster pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over the lobster kebabs.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Grill or broil for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the lobster is cooked through.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms with Breadcrumb Topping
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent recipe featuring succulent lobster meat and earthy mushrooms, topped with a crispy breadcrumb mixture.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup lobster meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together lobster meat, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the lobster mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over the stuffed mushrooms.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until breadcrumbs are golden brown and mushrooms are tender.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in these 20 decadent whole lobster recipes perfect for special occasions. From classic baked and grilled options to creamy pasta dishes, you’ll find inspiration for a luxurious meal. Discover unique flavor combinations like garlic butter, lemon herb butter, and gruyère cheese, as well as international twists like paella and risotto. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or simply a night in, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to impress.