Elegant Lobster Risotto for Two

Name: Elegant Lobster Risotto for Two
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 shallots, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups seafood or chicken stock, kept warm; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 cup freshly cooked lobster meat, chopped; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Dinner Recipes

I absolutely love making this Elegant Lobster Risotto for Two for a special date night at home. The creamy texture of the risotto combined with the delicate sweetness of the lobster truly elevates the dish into something extraordinary. Every time I prepare it, I’m reminded of our coastal vacations, as the flavors instantly transport me back to seaside dining. What makes this dish perfect is the careful balance of flavors and the technique of slowly adding broth, which ensures a rich, tender risotto that’s bursting with flavor. It's definitely a recipe worth mastering.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-07T21:57:27.959Z

When I first attempted lobster risotto, I worried it would be a complicated endeavor, but I quickly learned that with the right techniques, it can be quite manageable. I found that using fresh lobster not only made a significant difference in taste but also added a luxurious touch that is perfect for special occasions. Stirring the risotto slowly while adding broth gradually ensured that the rice achieved that desired creaminess, which is truly the hallmark of a good dish.

In preparation, I discovered that infusing my broth with aromatics like herbs and garlic helped build layers of flavor right from the start. Each step, from sautéing the onions until they're translucent to the final touch of Parmesan cheese, contributed to the symphony of flavors that make this risotto a standout dish in our home. It quickly became our go-to recipe for memorable evenings together.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Indulgent lobster paired perfectly with creamy risotto
A truly romantic dish ideal for special date nights
Rich flavors that highlight the sweetness of fresh seafood

      

The Art of Risotto

Mastering the technique of slowly adding broth is crucial for achieving a creamy risotto. This process releases the starch from the Arborio rice, ensuring the dish has that desirable velvety texture. I recommend using a wooden spoon to stir, as it allows for better control and prevents the rice from sticking. Keep the heat at medium to prevent the rice from cooking too quickly and ending up mushy.

When adding broth, use a ladle and incorporate it gradually, waiting for the liquid to be absorbed before adding more. You'll know it's ready for the next addition when the surface of the risotto looks mostly dry and the rice has a slight resistance to it. This technique typically takes around 18-20 minutes and is worth the investment of time for a perfect dish.

Choosing Your Ingredients Wisely

Selecting the right lobster is essential for your risotto to shine. Fresh lobster adds a sweet and delicate flavor that frozen options can't replicate. If none is available, consider using cooked crab or shrimp as acceptable substitutes, although the flavor profile will slightly differ. You should aim for about one cup of lobster meat – enough to blend well with the risotto while still allowing each bite to be prominent.

Using high-quality Parmesan cheese also elevates the dish. Opt for freshly grated cheese, as it melts better and has superior flavor compared to pre-packaged versions. For a twist, try a similar hard cheese like Pecorino Romano, which will impart a sharper taste to your risotto. Ensuring your cheese is at room temperature before incorporating it will help it meld smoothly into the dish.

Ingredients

For the Risotto

1 cup Arborio rice
2 shallots, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups seafood or chicken stock, kept warm
1 cup dry white wine
1 cup freshly cooked lobster meat, chopped
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Broth

In a saucepan, heat the seafood or chicken stock over low heat. Keep it warm as you prepare the risotto.

Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant.

Cook the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for about 1-2 minutes, allowing it to toast lightly. Then, pour in the white wine, stirring constantly until it's mostly absorbed.

Add Broth Gradually

Start adding the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until each addition is almost fully absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and al dente.

Finish the Risotto

Once the risotto is cooked, gently fold in the chopped lobster meat, Parmesan cheese, and remaining butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Plate the risotto and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately for best results.

Pro Tips

For an added touch, try squeezing a bit of lemon juice over the risotto just before serving to brighten the flavors.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the risotto base ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a fuss-free cooking experience on date night. Cook the rice until just al dente, then spread it out on a baking sheet to cool. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in a saucepan with a splash of warm broth, then finish with the lobster and cheese as instructed.

If you have leftovers, store the risotto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When reheating, add a splash more broth or water to restore its creamy consistency. Microwaving is quick, but I prefer to heat it in a skillet over low heat to keep the texture just right.

Perfect Pairings

This risotto pairs beautifully with a crisp dry white wine, echoing the flavors in the dish. Consider serving with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. For those who prefer a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a twist of lemon adds a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the risotto.

Complement the dish with a side salad featuring bitter greens, such as arugula or radicchio. Tossed lightly with olive oil and lemon, these greens enhance the meal by balancing richness with their peppery freshness. This combination elevates the dining experience, making it feel even more special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen lobster for this recipe?

Yes, but fresh lobster will yield a better flavor and texture.

→ What's the best type of rice for risotto?

Arborio rice is ideal due to its high starch content, which creates creaminess.

→ Can I make this in advance?

Risotto is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the broth and chop the ingredients ahead of time.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of risotto I can make?

Absolutely! Substitute the lobster with sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth.