LAZY LOBSTER CASSEROLE WITH BUTTERY RITZ TOPPING

Lobster Casserole, also known as Lazy Lobster at many New England seafood shacks, is the perfect way to enjoy lobster without the hassle of getting covered in lobster juice. Typically served as a baked casserole, it features chunks of lobster in a generous amount of butter, topped with a crispy Ritz cracker crumble. A lemon wedge, a sprig of parsley, and a light dusting of paprika finish off this divine dish.

Whenever I spot Lazy Lobster on a menu, I can’t resist ordering it. My favorite versions always include a splash of sherry and a touch of garlic for extra flavor.

This year, I started ordering my meats from ButcherBox, and occasionally, they offer lobster. I knew I had to try making my own lobster casserole at home. With a little imagination—thinking of a picnic table with seashells beneath my feet and the sound of seagulls in the distance—I could easily forget I wasn’t enjoying it seaside.

INGREDIENTS

Buttery Ritz Topping:

  • 35 Ritz crackers
  • 2 cups Oyster Crackers (Westminster brand preferred)
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley

Lobster:

  • ½ cup butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup sherry
  • Juice of one lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 24 oz lobster meat (claws and knuckles recommended)

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Start by crushing the Ritz crackers in a food processor. Pulse until the crumbs are coarse, leaving some larger pieces for texture. Transfer to a bowl.
  • Add the oyster crackers, melted butter, and chopped parsley to the bowl. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
  • In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, then pour in the sherry and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
  • If using raw lobster, add it to the pan and cook until it firms up and changes color. If using pre-cooked lobster, simply pour the sauce over the lobster meat. Remove from heat.
  • Divide the lobster evenly between individual ramekins or baking dishes.
  • Generously top with the cracker mixture.
  • Bake in a preheated 350° F oven for about 10 minutes, or until the lobster is fully cooked and the topping is golden brown.
  • Serve with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

NUTRITION (PER SERVING)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Fat: 29g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 205mg
  • Sodium: 959mg
  • Potassium: 304mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Vitamin A: 921 IU
  • Vitamin C: 4mg
  • Calcium: 139mg
  • Iron: 2mg

GORDON RAMSAY STEAK PIE RECIPE

Celebrate National Scottish New Year’s with a delicious steak pie! If you’re a fan, you must try Gordon Ramsay’s version, which features a rich beef filling cooked slowly with vegetables for maximum flavor. This hearty pie is perfect when served with steak chips, potatoes, shallots, and spices. Dive into the article for more details and learn how to prepare this delightful steak pie at home.

Ingredients

For the Filling

  • 2 lbs beef (chuck or brisket), cut into cubes
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef stock
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Fresh thyme and rosemary, to taste
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking

For the Pie

  • 1 sheet puff pastry
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

  • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
  • In the same pot, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Liquids and Seasoning:

  • Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the beef stock, red wine, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Prepare the Pie:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Once the filling is ready, transfer it to a pie dish. Allow it to cool slightly.
  • Roll out the puff pastry and cover the pie dish, sealing the edges. Cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
  • Brush the pastry with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Bake:

  • Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.

Serve:

  • Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty steak pie with steak chips, potatoes, and shallots!

    Enjoy your delicious Gordon Ramsay steak pie!