Restaurant Style Lobster Pasta

Name: Restaurant Style Lobster Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 oz linguine pasta; 2 lobster tails, cooked and chopped; 3 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup white wine; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 lemon, juiced

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love indulging in rich, flavorful dishes, and this Restaurant Style Lobster Pasta is a favorite of mine. The combination of sweet lobster meat with a creamy garlic sauce takes pasta night to a whole new level. We often enjoy this dish for special celebrations or as a comforting meal during cozy evenings at home. With just a few key ingredients, I can create a restaurant-quality meal that makes my dinner guests feel pampered. It's an unforgettable dish that never fails to impress!

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:46:21.437Z

When I first tried making lobster pasta at home, I was nervous about how to capture that exquisite restaurant flavor. After some experimentation, I found that using a rich cream sauce infused with garlic and white wine truly elevates the dish. One tip I learned is to add a splash of lemon juice right at the end for a fresh brightness that balances the creamy sauce.

This dish became an instant favorite at dinner parties, and it's always fun to see the surprise on my guests' faces when they realize they’re dining on something that tastes so luxurious. A touch of fresh herbs not only adds flavor but also provides a beautiful presentation!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich lobster flavor combined with a creamy, garlic-infused sauce
Perfectly cooked pasta that clings to the sauce beautifully
An impressive dish that can easily elevate any occasion

      

Mastering the Sauce

The creamy garlic sauce in this lobster pasta is the heart of the dish, and mastering its consistency is crucial. When cooking the garlic, heat it until fragrant but avoid browning; this ensures the sauce remains smooth. The addition of heavy cream provides richness, while the white wine adds acidity, balancing the flavors. Simmering the wine for a few minutes helps to reduce its strong alcohol taste, allowing the subtle notes to merge beautifully with the cream.

When adding the Parmesan cheese, ensure it’s finely grated for quick melting. Stir in the cheese gradually over low heat, watching for a glossy texture—this indicates the perfect consistency. If the sauce appears too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen it without losing flavor. This method ensures that the sauce clings to the pasta, enhancing each bite with creamy goodness.

Choosing the Right Pasta

Linguine pasta is an excellent choice for this dish due to its flat shape, which effectively captures the luxurious sauce. When cooking the pasta, opt for al dente texture to ensure it holds up against the rich sauce without becoming mushy. Typically, this means cooking for about 8-10 minutes, but always check your package instructions for precise timing. Drain the pasta but reserve a cup of the cooking water; this can be used to adjust the sauce's consistency later if needed.

If you're looking for alternatives, fettuccine or pappardelle can work well, too. Just adjust the cooking time as their thickness may vary. For a gluten-free version, consider using gluten-free linguine or a pasta made from chickpeas for added protein. The key is to use pasta that will serve as a sturdy base to hold the creamy sauce and tender lobster meat.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving this Restaurant Style Lobster Pasta is an opportunity to get creative! For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. A fresh lemon wedge on the side enhances the dish’s flavors, providing a zesty contrast to the richness of the sauce. Pairing it with a simple arugula salad dressed in a light vinaigrette complements the dish without overwhelming its flavors.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can customize the recipe by adding vegetables like roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. Seafood lovers might also consider mixing in shrimp or scallops to stretch the dish while keeping it indulgent. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure all seafood cooks perfectly. This lobster pasta can also be made ahead; simply reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce's luscious texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious lobster pasta.

Ingredients

8 oz linguine pasta
2 lobster tails, cooked and chopped
3 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup white wine
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon, juiced

Make sure to have everything prepped before starting to cook, as the process is quick!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your lobster pasta.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add Wine and Cream

Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Then, stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked lobster meat, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and the cheese has melted.

Add Pasta

Toss in the linguine and mix well to coat the pasta in the sauce. Add lemon juice and chopped parsley, mixing just until combined.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Pair with a nice white wine for a complete dining experience!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, you can mix in some red pepper flakes for heat or add a splash of seafood stock while simmering the sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those who might find fresh lobster tails hard to source, frozen lobster can be a suitable substitute. Just ensure they’re fully thawed before cooking. Alternatively, crab meat can provide a similar flavor profile if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option. Additionally, in place of heavy cream, a blend of half-and-half and a bit of cornstarch can mimic some of that richness while making the dish lighter.

If you're avoiding dairy, consider using cashew cream or coconut milk instead of heavy cream. These alternatives provide creaminess, though they may impart their own flavors. For the cheese, nutritional yeast is an excellent vegan substitute that adds a cheesy flavor without any dairy.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheating pasta can sometimes lead to a dry texture, so adding a splash of water or broth when microwaving can help restore moisture. Alternatively, gently reheating on the stove over low heat with a bit of cream or olive oil can help maintain the original texture of the sauce.

For longer storage, consider freezing the lobster pasta. Although it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool the dish completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat gently on the stove, adding liquid as needed to prevent separation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen lobster tails?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and follow cooking instructions accordingly.

→ What type of pasta is best for this dish?

Linguine is traditional, but you can also use fettuccine or spaghetti if preferred.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute the linguine with gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn.

→ Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

It's best to prepare the sauce fresh to ensure the cream doesn’t separate. However, you can prep the ingredients ahead.