Go Back
+ servings
Lobster Shrimp Mac and Cheese Cups

Indulgent Lobster Shrimp Mac and Cheese Cups for Parties

Savor crowd-pleasing Lobster Shrimp Mac and Cheese Cups, a gourmet twist on comfort food that combines creamy cheese and seafood.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 cups
Course: appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Cups
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni mini shells or cavatappi can also work well
  • 2 tablespoons butter no direct substitute recommended
For the Seafood
  • 1 cup lobster meat can substitute with extra shrimp, crab, or scallops
  • 1 cup shrimp pre-cooked before baking
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups cheese (e.g., Gruyère, Fontina) or cheddar for a classic twist
  • 2 cups milk or cream plant-based milk for dairy-free version
  • 4 tablespoons butter for making the roux
  • ¼ cup flour for thickening
For the Crunchy Topping
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs crushed Ritz crackers or pretzels can be alternatives
For Seasoning
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • to taste garlic

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • medium saucepan
  • muffin tin

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Once done, drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the shrimp and lobster meat, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until heated through and opaque. Remove from heat and cool in a bowl.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in ¼ cup of flour, cooking for 1–2 minutes until light golden. Slowly add 2 cups of milk, whisking until thickened, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheese until melted.
  4. Fold in the cooked elbow macaroni and sautéed seafood mixture until evenly combined in the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
  5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin. Spoon the mixture into each muffin cup, filling to the top. Sprinkle a layer of panko breadcrumbs on each cup.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the tops are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
  7. Once baked, let the cups cool for 5 minutes. Run a knife around the edges before lifting them out. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Grease muffin tins well or use parchment liners. Don’t overcook seafood to maintain tender texture. Prepare and assemble cups a day in advance for convenience.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!