A luxurious yet comforting dish, Lemon Butter Lobster Risotto combines creamy Arborio rice with tender lobster meat, bright lemon, and rich butter. It’s elegant enough for special occasions but approachable enough to make at home when you want something truly memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This risotto delivers restaurant-quality flavor with simple, wholesome ingredients. The sweetness of lobster pairs beautifully with the freshness of lemon, while slow-stirred rice creates a silky, satisfying texture. It feels indulgent without being heavy and is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Arborio rice: 1 1/2 cups (300 g)
• Cooked lobster meat, chopped: 1 cup (about 170 g)
• Lobster shells (optional, for broth): from 1 lobster
• Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons (56 g)
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
• Shallot, finely chopped: 1 medium (about 50 g)
• Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
• Dry white grape-based cooking wine: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
• Warm seafood or vegetable broth: 4 1/2 cups (1.1 liters)
• Lemon zest: from 1 medium lemon
• Fresh lemon juice: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
• Grated Parmesan-style cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g)
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
• Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped: 2 tablespoons

Directions

1. If using lobster shells, simmer them in 5 cups of water for 15 minutes, then strain to make a light lobster broth. Keep the broth warm.
2. In a wide pan, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped shallot and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent.
4. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the Arborio rice and stir for 1–2 minutes until the grains are lightly coated and slightly translucent at the edges.
6. Pour in the cooking wine and cook, stirring, until mostly absorbed.
7. Begin adding warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring gently and allowing it to absorb before adding more. Continue for about 18–20 minutes until the rice is creamy and tender with a slight bite.
8. Stir in the remaining butter, chopped lobster meat, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
9. Remove from heat and fold in the grated cheese. Adjust seasoning if needed.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes, for a total time of 45 minutes.

Variations

You can add a small handful of peas or asparagus tips for extra color and freshness. For a richer flavor, replace half of the butter with additional olive oil and finish with a splash of warm broth for a looser texture. If lobster is unavailable, shrimp can be used while keeping the lemon butter profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover risotto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a few tablespoons of broth or water, stirring until creamy again. Avoid overheating to keep the lobster tender.

FAQs

Can I use frozen lobster meat?

Yes, thaw it fully and pat dry before adding it to the risotto.

What type of rice works best?

Arborio rice is ideal because it releases starch that creates a creamy texture.

Can I make this dish without wine?

Yes, replace the wine with an equal amount of warm broth and a small squeeze of lemon.

How do I know when the risotto is done?

The rice should be tender with a slight firmness in the center and surrounded by a creamy sauce.

Can I prepare risotto in advance?

Risotto is best fresh, but you can partially cook it and finish with broth just before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely, it’s elegant and impressive while still comforting.

Can I add more lemon flavor?

You can increase the lemon zest slightly, but keep the juice balanced to avoid overpowering the dish.

What can I serve with lobster risotto?

A simple green salad or lightly steamed vegetables pair well.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can replace butter with olive oil and omit the cheese, though the flavor will be less rich.

Why does my risotto turn thick when cooled?

As it cools, the starch sets. Reheating with liquid restores its creamy consistency.

Conclusion

Lemon Butter Lobster Risotto is a refined yet comforting meal that highlights fresh flavors and creamy textures. With careful stirring and quality ingredients, you can create a dish that feels luxurious, balanced, and deeply satisfying right at home.

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