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Lemon Butter Lobster Risotto Recipe

4.1 from 89 reviews

This Lemon Butter Lobster Risotto is a luxurious and creamy Italian-inspired dish combining rich butter, zesty lemon, and tender lobster meat with traditional Arborio rice. Cooked slowly with warm broth and finished with Parmesan cheese, this elegant meal is perfect for a special dinner or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Risotto Base

  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 small shallot, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups seafood or chicken broth, warmed

Finishing Ingredients

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 8 oz cooked lobster meat, chopped (about 1 tail or 2 small claws)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Shallot and Garlic: Heat a large saucepan or deep skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, allowing the butter to melt and coat the pan. Add the finely diced shallot and cook for about 3 minutes until translucent and soft. Then add the minced garlic and cook an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  2. Toast the Rice: Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes. This toasts the rice and coats it with the butter and oil, helping release starch for the creamy texture typical of risotto.
  3. Add the Broth Gradually: Begin adding the warm broth one ladle (about ½ cup) at a time while stirring constantly. Let the rice absorb the liquid fully before adding more broth. Continue this process for 18-20 minutes until the rice becomes tender and creamy with a slight bite in the center.
  4. Finish with Lemon, Butter, and Parmesan: Once the rice is cooked, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter until melted. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest, stirring well until smooth and combined. Gently fold in the chopped lobster meat. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Spoon the risotto onto plates or bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and, if desired, an additional sprinkle of lemon zest for extra brightness. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use seafood broth for a richer ocean flavor or chicken broth for a milder taste.
  • To save time, use pre-cooked lobster meat or substitute with cooked shrimp or scallops.
  • Stir consistently during broth addition to avoid sticking and ensure creaminess.
  • Do not add all broth at once; gradual addition is key to perfect risotto texture.
  • Adjust lemon juice and zest according to your preference for citrus brightness.
  • Serve immediately as risotto is best fresh and loses texture if reheated.

Keywords: Lemon Butter Lobster Risotto, creamy risotto, seafood risotto, lobster recipe, Italian dinner, Arborio rice recipe