📝 About This Recipe
This luxurious dip is the ultimate indulgence for seafood lovers, combining succulent chunks of sweet Maine lobster with a velvety blend of three cheeses and aromatic herbs. Inspired by the classic New England lobster roll, this warm appetizer elevates comfort food to a gourmet experience with a touch of dry sherry and a golden, buttery panko crust. It is the perfect centerpiece for a sophisticated cocktail party or a festive holiday gathering where you want to truly impress your guests.
🥗 Ingredients
The Lobster Base
- 1.5 pounds Lobster meat (cooked, chopped into bite-sized chunks (claw and knuckle preferred))
- 3 tablespoons Unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon Dry sherry (optional, for deglazing)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
The Creamy Mixture
- 16 ounces Cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1/2 cup Sour cream (full fat)
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (high quality, like Hellman's or Duke's)
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese (freshly shredded)
- 1/2 cup White cheddar cheese (sharp, freshly shredded)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 2 tablespoons Fresh chives (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
The Topping & Garnish
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon Smoked paprika (for dusting)
👨🍳 Instructions
-
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 1.5-quart baking dish or a 9-inch cast-iron skillet with butter.
-
2
In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped lobster meat and sauté gently for 2 minutes to coat in butter. If using sherry, pour it in now and let it simmer for 30 seconds until reduced.
-
3
Remove the lobster from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. Set aside about 1/4 cup of the prettiest lobster chunks to use as a garnish on top later.
-
4
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula.
-
5
Add the sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce to the cream cheese. Mix until completely incorporated.
-
6
Fold in the shredded Gruyère, white cheddar, and chopped chives until evenly distributed.
-
7
Gently fold the buttered lobster meat (and any remaining butter from the pan) into the cheese mixture, being careful not to break up the lobster chunks too much.
-
8
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
-
9
In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Toss with a fork until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
-
10
Sprinkle the panko mixture over the top of the dip, then arrange the reserved lobster chunks on top. Dust lightly with smoked paprika.
-
11
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling around the edges and the panko topping is a beautiful golden brown.
-
12
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly so it's not too runny.
-
13
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra chives before serving warm.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always use freshly shredded cheese; pre-shredded bags contain potato starch that prevents the dip from becoming perfectly smooth. If using frozen lobster meat, ensure it is completely thawed and patted very dry with paper towels to prevent a watery dip. For an extra kick of heat, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream cheese base. Don't overcook the lobster in the skillet initially; remember it will continue to cook and tenderize while baking in the oven. To make ahead, assemble the dip (without the panko topping), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with toasted baguette slices or sourdough crostini for a classic crunch. Pair with buttery Ritz crackers or high-quality sea salt pita chips. Provide crisp celery sticks or sliced cucumber rounds for a refreshing, low-carb dipping option. Accompany with a chilled glass of buttery Chardonnay or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the richness. Serve alongside lemon wedges so guests can add an extra hit of acidity to their individual portions.