Baked Stuffed Whole Lobster
Indulge in succulent baked whole lobster stuffed with savory bread crumbs, Parmesan, and aromatic onion, perfect for seafood lovers seeking an elegant, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Plunge 2 live lobsters headfirst into boiling, salted water to cover and cook for 2 minutes.
- Remove lobsters from water and place on back on a cutting board.
- With a sharp knife, split each lobster lengthwise from head to abdomen base.
- Spread body open and discard all organs except the greenish liver and red coral roe.
- Remove the black vein from the lobster meat.
- Crack the large claws to access the meat.
- Combine bread crumbs, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and grated onion.
- Spoon the mixture into the lobster body cavities.
- Place the lobsters, shell side down, in a shallow baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes until lightly browned and meat is cooked.
- Serve with melted butter.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, pecorino or even a mild cheddar can work as substitutions. Make sure to not overcook the lobsters to keep the meat tender and juicy. You can also try similar techniques with shrimp for a delightful dish, like in Baked Fish In Lemon Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked stuffed lobster with a side of melted butter for dipping. A fresh garden salad or steamed asparagus complements the richness of the dish well. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with Mom Stephen's Wild Rice And Crab Salad. A chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay, also enhances the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed lobster can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the lobster in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the lobster rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Stuffed Whole Lobster contains roughly 255 calories, with 15g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 538mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen lobster for this recipe?
While fresh lobster yields the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen lobster if fresh isn’t available. Thaw the lobster completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Just be sure to check for any ice crystals in the meat, and adjust cooking time accordingly as it may require a few extra minutes.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers, such as saltines or oysterettes, can serve as a great alternative. You can also use crushed cornflakes or panko for a crunchier topping. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as needed since some crackers can be saltier than bread crumbs.
Is it necessary to remove the lobster organs?
Yes, it's generally recommended to remove the lobster organs for both texture and taste. The greenish liver (tomalley) and red coral roe are edible and add flavor, but the other organs can be bitter. Ensure you clean the lobster thoroughly before stuffing to maintain a pleasant taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).