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Delicious Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta garnished with parsley in a white bowl

Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta

A luxurious yet approachable pasta dish featuring sweet lobster, a creamy garlic butter sauce, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Calories: 680
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz linguine or fettuccine Choose a high-quality semolina pasta for the best texture.
  • 2 pieces cooked lobster tails, chopped Use fully cooked lobster for convenience.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter European-style butter gives a richer taste.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is best for flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Adjust the amount for desired spice level.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream Full-fat cream yields a richer sauce.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated melts better.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste Season in layers.
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish Adds freshness and color.
Optional Add-ons
  • Lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice Brightens flavor.
  • A knob of extra butter to finish Adds gloss to the sauce.
  • A few grinds of smoked paprika Enhances depth of flavor.
  • Lightly toasted breadcrumbs For a crunchy texture contrast.
  • Chopped chives or tarragon Delicate herbs pair well with seafood.

Method
 

Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the linguine or fettuccine according to package directions until just al dente.
  2. Reserve one cup of starchy pasta water before draining, then drain the pasta and keep it warm.
Build the Garlic-Butter Base
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it foams gently.
  2. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring constantly for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Enrich with Cream
  1. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine Pasta and Lobster
  1. Add the drained pasta and gently fold in the chopped lobster, warming for 1-2 minutes. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
Finish and Serve
  1. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and add lemon zest or juice if desired.
  2. Plate the pasta, scatter lobster pieces on top, and garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.

Notes

Work gently when combining to keep the lobster intact. Adjust seasoning before serving.