Name: French Lobster Thermidor Delight Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 live lobsters (1.5 pounds each); 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 shallots, finely chopped; 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced; ½ cup dry white wine; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp paprika; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

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Introduction

French Lobster Thermidor Delight is a classic, indulgent seafood dish featuring tender lobster meat in a creamy, flavorful sauce. Baked with Parmesan cheese to golden perfection, it’s perfect for special occasions or a luxurious dinner at home.

The image shows two lobster tails served in a black baking tray. Each lobster tail has a bright orange and red shell base, topped with white, tender lobster meat. A creamy, pale yellow sauce is generously poured over the lobster meat, with small specks of red seasoning visible throughout. Fresh chopped green herbs are sprinkled on top of the sauce. The tray also has lemon wedges with their bright yellow color peeking from the sides. The background surface has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 live lobsters (1.5 pounds each)
4 tbsp unsalted butter
2 shallots, finely chopped
1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
½ cup dry white wine
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp paprika
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lobsters for 8-10 minutes until bright red. Remove and cool slightly before cracking open.
Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add shallots and sauté until translucent, about 2 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
Step 3: Pour in white wine and simmer for 3-4 minutes until reduced by half. Stir in heavy cream and cook until sauce slightly thickens, about 3 minutes.
Step 4: Chop lobster meat into bite-sized pieces. Fold lobster, paprika, and half of the Parmesan cheese into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Preheat your broiler. Fill the cleaned lobster shells with the lobster mixture, top with the remaining Parmesan, and broil for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh parsley to brighten the flavor, or substitute with tarragon for a subtle anise note.
For a richer sauce, add a small amount of Dijon mustard or a splash of brandy during cooking.
Make ahead by preparing the filling in advance; assemble and broil just before serving for best results.

Storage

Store leftover Lobster Thermidor in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at low temperature to preserve texture and creaminess. Avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery lobster meat.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of baked lobster tails arranged in a row inside a dark baking tray. Each lobster tail has a reddish-brown shell base with white flesh peeking through the gaps. On top of the lobster meat is a thick layer of golden-brown, slightly crispy cheese and breadcrumb mixture, browned more on the edges, with small green herb bits sprinkled over it. The baking tray holds creamy, light beige liquid sauce around the lobster tails. The whole scene is set on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen lobster instead of live lobster?

While fresh lobsters provide the best flavor and texture, you can use cooked frozen lobster meat as a convenient alternative. Just thaw it fully before folding into the sauce.

What can I serve with Lobster Thermidor?

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed asparagus, a crisp green salad, or buttery garlic mashed potatoes to complement the rich flavors.