Indulge in a decadent and luxurious Lobster Alfredo with Linguine, a dish that combines the delicate sweetness of lobster with the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce. This restaurant-quality meal brings the elegance of lobster together with the comforting flavors of a classic Alfredo sauce, elevated by a hint of sherry for depth and complexity. Topped with succulent chopped lobster and fresh parsley, this dish will turn any dinner into a special occasion. Perfect for date nights, celebrations, or when you simply want to treat yourself, this Lobster Alfredo is surprisingly easy to make and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients:
For the Pasta and Lobster:
- 12 oz (340g) linguine
- 2 lobster tails (or 1 lb cooked lobster meat)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for sautéing lobster)
- Salt (for boiling pasta)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for a thicker sauce)
- 2 tablespoons sherry (optional, for added depth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (optional, enhances creaminess)
Topping:
- Chopped cooked lobster meat (reserved from tails)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Dressing:
- Olive Garden-style Alfredo sauce with a hint of sherry (as prepared above)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Lobster
Start by cooking the lobster tails. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and lightly salt it. Add the lobster tails and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the lobster meat is opaque and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the lobster tails from the pot and let them cool slightly. When cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the shells, chop it into bite-sized pieces, and set aside for later.
Step 2: Cook the Linguine
In the same pot, bring fresh salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to the package instructions, until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4:
Stir in the flour (if using) to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring constantly to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
Step 5:
Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and slowly whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
Step 6:
Add the sherry (if using), stirring to incorporate it into the sauce. The sherry adds a subtle depth of flavor, enhancing the creamy Alfredo sauce with a touch of sophistication. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked linguine into the Alfredo sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 8: Add Lobster
Gently fold the chopped lobster meat into the pasta and sauce mixture, reserving a handful of lobster to use as a topping. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm the lobster through, being careful not to overcook it.
Step 9: Serve
Transfer the Lobster Alfredo to serving plates. Top with the reserved chopped lobster meat and garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Cooking Note:
- Fresh Lobster: If you have access to live lobsters, consider boiling or steaming them yourself for the freshest taste. However, precooked lobster meat can be used as a time-saver.
- Alfredo Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, thinning it with a splash of reserved pasta water or additional milk will help maintain a silky texture.
- Sherry Substitution: If sherry is unavailable or not preferred, you can use white wine or omit it entirely for a more traditional Alfredo sauce.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free thickening agent like cornstarch.
Serving Suggestions:
Lobster Alfredo with Linguine is a rich and creamy dish that pairs well with a variety of lighter, complementary side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete the meal:
- A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
- Garlic bread or crusty French bread for dipping into the luscious sauce.
- A glass of chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the seafood flavor and richness of the dish.
For a special occasion, serve it alongside roasted asparagus or a side of grilled vegetables for a complete gourmet meal.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the Alfredo sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently on the stove and toss with freshly cooked pasta and lobster.
- Reheating Leftovers: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta to restore its creamy consistency.
- Cheese: Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the sauce, as pre-grated cheese contains additives that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Lobster Options: If lobster is unavailable or too expensive, shrimp, scallops, or even crab meat can be excellent substitutes.
Prep Time:
- 20 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 30 minutes
Total Time:
- 50 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 680
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 920mg
Conclusion:
Lobster Alfredo with Linguine is the perfect dish for anyone who loves the combination of creamy, indulgent sauces and delicate, sweet seafood. This recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal that is not only delicious but also simple to make at home. The luxurious lobster pairs beautifully with the Alfredo sauce, which is enhanced with a hint of sherry to create a rich and flavorful experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just in the mood for something fancy, this dish is guaranteed to impress!