Classic Lobster Newburg

Classic Lobster Newburg is an indulgent, creamy seafood dish featuring tender lobster meat bathed in a rich, sherry-spiked sauce made with butter, egg yolks, and cream. Served traditionally over toast points or in puff pastry shells, it’s a luxurious entrée that’s perfect for holidays or dinner parties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent and Elegant: With lobster, cream, and sherry, it’s a show-stopping dish that feels special.
• Quick to Make: Despite its upscale nature, Lobster Newburg comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over toast, puff pastry, or even rice or pasta.
• Classic American Flavor: A recipe with roots in 19th-century New York, it’s nostalgic and refined.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Make ahead-friendly and easy to reheat gently.

Ingredients

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

• 1 pound cooked lobster meat, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup whole milk
• 3 egg yolks, lightly beaten
• 3 tablespoons dry sherry or cognac
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper
• Pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg (optional)
• Toast points or puff pastry shells, for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

this recipe

1. Make the Roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux without browning it.
2. Add Cream and Milk: Slowly whisk in the cream and milk. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3–5 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Temper the Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk a few tablespoons of the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks to temper them. Then gradually whisk the yolks into the pan.
4. Flavor the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and add sherry, lemon juice, salt, white pepper, and optional cayenne. Stir until smooth and heated through.
5. Add Lobster: Gently fold in the cooked lobster meat and simmer on low just until warmed through.
6. Serve: Spoon the mixture over toast points or into puff pastry shells. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Seafood Newburg: Add scallops or shrimp for a mixed seafood version.
• Spicy Newburg: Add more cayenne or a splash of hot sauce.
• Mushroom Newburg: Stir in sautéed mushrooms for extra richness.
• Brandy or Cognac Swap: Use your favorite fortified wine if you don’t have sherry.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently over low heat in a saucepan. Stir continuously and avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
• Freezing: Not recommended. The cream sauce may separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen lobster meat?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry to remove any excess moisture before cooking.

Is there a substitute for sherry?

Dry white wine or cognac can be used, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce and lobster can be made a day ahead. Gently reheat before serving.

What are the best sides to serve with Lobster Newburg?

Light green salads, asparagus, or roasted potatoes pair well.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Temper the egg yolks carefully and avoid boiling the sauce after adding them.

Is this dish gluten-free?

No, but you can use gluten-free flour or cornstarch in the roux for a gluten-free version.

Can I use other shellfish?

Yes, shrimp, scallops, or even crab meat work well in place of lobster.

What is the difference between Lobster Newburg and Lobster Thermidor?

Newburg features a creamy sherry-based sauce with egg yolks, while Thermidor includes mustard, cheese, and is often broiled in the shell.

Can I serve this with pasta?

Absolutely. It pairs well with fettuccine or linguine.

Is it safe to reheat cream sauces?

Yes, just do so gently over low heat and stir continuously to avoid splitting.

Conclusion

Classic Lobster Newburg is a timeless and luxurious dish that brings refined flavor to your table. Its creamy, sherry-laced sauce and tender lobster make it a perfect centerpiece for special dinners or entertaining guests. With minimal prep and a dramatic presentation, this classic recipe is as easy as it is elegant.

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