Red Lobster is known for their endless shrimp deals, Cheddar Bay Biscuits, and of course – lobster The chain restaurant has built their brand around fresh and affordable lobster dishes One of their most prized menu items is the Lobster Mac and Cheese. The decadent three-cheese and lobster-loaded macaroni is a customer favorite. But is it available year-round or just a limited edition dish? Let’s take a deep dive into the details on Red Lobster’s signature Lobster Mac and Cheese.
A Brief History of Lobster Mac and Cheese at Red Lobster
Red Lobster first introduced Lobster Mac and Cheese as a promotional menu item in 2015 as part of their “Endless Shrimp” summer campaign. Customers could enjoy endless shrimp along with the limited-time lobster pasta dish. It was billed as a “twist on an American classic” – taking the traditional comfort food mac and cheese recipe up a notch with generous chunks of lobster meat folded in.
The dish was very well received by customers and generate a lot of buzz online and in the media Red Lobster took note of its popularity and brought Lobster Mac and Cheese back the next summer as part of their Lobsterfest promotion Again – it was a hit and customers wanted more,
So in 2017, Red Lobster decided to add it to their core everyday menu Now the famous Lobster Mac and Cheese could be enjoyed year round Red Lobster makes sure to highlight it frequently in promotions and limited-time offers to keep customers excited.
Is Lobster Mac and Cheese a Permanent Menu Item?
As of 2023, Lobster Macaroni and Cheese is here to stay on the Red Lobster menu for the foreseeable future. It has cemented itself as one of their signature dishes. Fans can rest assured knowing they can order it any time their cheesy lobster pasta craving strikes.
While many “LTO” (limited-time offer) dishes at chain restaurants are gimmicky and later removed from the menu – Red Lobster’s Lobster Mac and Cheese had true staying power. Its continued popularity makes it clear this indulgent mac and cheese iteration is far from just a passing trend.
So lobster mac fans can rejoice knowing it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. Red Lobster’s culinary team continues to find new ways to enhance the dish and keep it fresh for diners.
Details on How It’s Made
Here’s what goes into each piping hot serving of Red Lobster’s famous Lobster Mac and Cheese:
- Elbow macaroni noodles cooked al dente
- A blend of Monterey Jack, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses
- Lobster meat pieces from cold-water Maine and Canadian lobster
- Roasted garlic and white wine for enhanced flavor
- A crispy parmesan panko breadcrumb topping
The cooked macaroni noodles and lobster meat are tossed in the velvety smooth cheese sauce mixture before being transferred to small cast iron skillets for serving. The mini skillets allow the cheese to bubble and brown nicely. A shower of crunchy garlic-Parm panko crumbs over the top adds texture.
Why Customers Love It
There are several reasons this indulgent pasta dish has been so successful on the Red Lobster menu:
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Lobster-lovers delight – having tender, meaty lobster chunks in every bite makes it extra special
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Cheese pull – stringy, cheesy bites satisfy mac and cheese cravings
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Savory and creamy – balanced flavors from the cheese blend and lobster
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Generous portions – a hearty meal’s worth of pasta in each personal-sized skillet
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Addictive crunch – the garlicky panko breadcrumb topping provides a satisfying crispy contrast
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Sharable – having it served individually allows everyone to enjoy their own
Nutrition Information
With its many rich ingredients, Lobster Mac and Cheese is admittedly an indulgent menu choice. Here are the nutrition facts per serving:
- Calories: 920
- Total Fat: 60g
- Saturated Fat: 36g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 235mg
- Sodium: 3280mg
- Carbs: 57g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 7g
- Protein: 29g
The high calorie, fat, sodium and cholesterol numbers are fairly typical of a decadent pasta dish loaded with cheese and lobster. While not an everyday health food, it can be enjoyed as an occasional treat.
Price and Availability
Red Lobster currently prices Lobster Mac and Cheese at $17.99 as an individual entree. However, prices can vary slightly by location.
It’s considered a feature menu item, so Lobster Mac and Cheese is available every day Red Lobster is open during normal business hours. Of course, always call your local restaurant directly to confirm availability if concerned.
Budget-conscious customers should keep an eye out for special promotions featuring Lobster Mac as a Deal of the Day or included in a prix-fixe menu. Red Lobster offers a rotating schedule of daily deals on select menu items. Signing up for their email club is the best way to stay notified of special offers.
Pairing Suggestions
Lobster Mac and Cheese is rich, creamy, and decadent. So what are some good food pairing options to complement it on your table?
Appetizer Pairings
Start your meal with one of these lighter starters before diving into the indulgent lobster pasta:
- New England Clam Chowder Soup
- House Salad with citrus vinaigrette
- Cheddar Bay Biscuits – just a taste!
Drink Pairings
Cool, crisp beverages help balance and cleanse the palate:
- Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc white wines
- Wheat beer or medium amber ale
- Iced tea with lemon
- Lime Margarita or Paloma cocktail
Dessert Pairings
A few lighter options to consider after eating cheesy, creamy mac:
- Fresh mixed berry parfait or fruit cups
- Sorbet or sherbet in citrus flavors
- Warm Apple Crostada with vanilla ice cream
Tips for Enjoying at Home
If you can’t make it to Red Lobster but find yourself craving their Lobster Mac and Cheese, here are some tips for a homemade version:
- Seek out good quality, fresh lobster meat
- Use a mix of melty cheeses like cheddar, Monterey jack and parmesan
- Load it generously with 1 to 1.5 cups cooked lobster per 4 servings
- Finish it with buttery toasted breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers on top
- Add garlic, oregano and cayenne pepper for extra flavor
- Serve it piping hot in individual ramekins for easy eating
While you won’t fully replicate Red Lobster’s secret recipe, you can still satisfy that craving for lobster mac and cheese in your own kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some quick answers to common questions about Red Lobster’s Lobster Macaroni and Cheese:
Is it real lobster meat?
Yes, it contains 100% real lobster meat chunks, no imitation seafood.
What’s the difference between the regular and petite sizes?
The petite size is about 2/3 cup smaller than the full size. Both include the same amount of lobster.
Can I add extra lobster meat?
Yes, you can request extra lobster to be added for an additional charge.
Can it be made gluten-free?
Unfortunately no, the kitchen is not a gluten-free facility.
Do kids eat free on special occasions?
Kids deals vary, so check with your local restaurant for their latest policy.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Cover and microwave until heated through, adding a splash of milk if dried out.
Can I prep ahead by cooking the pasta early?
It’s best to prep the sauce early, but cook pasta right before serving for ideal texture.
Is there a vegan version without lobster?
No dairy-free or vegan preparation is currently available.
Can I order it for takeout?
Yes, it travels well for takeout and delivery orders.
Enjoy Lobster Mac and Cheese from Red Lobster Today!
Red Lobster’s crave-worthy Lobster Macaroni and Cheese has earned its place as a permanent menu fixture thanks to its winning combination of tender lobster, creamy cheese, and garlicky crunch. This dish satisfies both mac and cheese purists and lobster lovers alike.
Now that you know it’s available year-round, you can stop in any time a cheesy lob
