Name: Lobster Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce and Basil Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces fresh lobster meat (removed from 2 freshly cooked 1.25 lb lobsters); 2 freshly cooked 1.25 lb lobsters (for meat and broth); 2 tsp kosher salt for sauce (additional salt needed for seasoning boiling waters); Salt for boiling water (approximately 1.5 tablespoons per liter); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 1/2 cup tomato puree (passata); 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional: up to 1/2 cup for extra creamy sauce); 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn; 1 tbsp chives, finely chopped; 1 pound pasta (your choice, preferably long pasta like linguine or spaghetti)

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If you are ready to indulge in a truly luxurious and heartwarming dish, look no further than this Lobster Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce and Basil Recipe. Combining the delicate sweetness of fresh lobster meat with a luscious, velvety tomato sauce enriched by cream and fragrant basil, this recipe will transform a simple pasta night into a memorable feast. Every bite offers a beautiful balance of rich flavors and textures, making it the perfect centerpiece for an elegant dinner or any occasion that calls for a touch of coastal sophistication.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large red lobster is placed at the center of an oval gray tray, showing its shiny, textured shell and big claws. To the left of the lobster, there is a bundle of uncooked long yellow spaghetti. Near the top right side of the lobster, there is a whole yellow onion with brown skin and a bowl of smooth, bright red tomato sauce. Above the tray, a bowl of white cream sits next to a whole garlic bulb and green chives. At the bottom right of the lobster, fresh, bright green basil leaves add color, and next to them is a small white bowl filled with dark red tomato paste. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the right ingredients is key to bringing out the full magic of this dish. Each element is simple yet essential, contributing its unique flavor, texture, or aroma to create a truly harmonious Lobster Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce and Basil Recipe experience.

8 ounces fresh lobster meat: The star ingredient providing tender, sweet seafood flavor, removed from two freshly cooked 1.25 lb lobsters.
1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and imparting a subtle fruity richness to the sauce.
1 small yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and a gentle bite to build depth.
3 cloves garlic: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and a savory punch.
1 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and enhances the sauce’s rich color.
1/2 cup tomato puree (Passata): Provides fresh, smooth tomato notes for a bright yet creamy base.
1/4 cup heavy cream: Adds silkiness and a luscious mouthfeel that balances acidity.
1 pound pasta: Choose your favorite type to soak up that irresistible sauce.
2 tsp kosher salt: For seasoning the sauce, plus additional for boiling lobster and pasta waters to taste like the sea.
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn: Delivers fresh, herbal brightness and signature Italian flair.
1 tbsp finely chopped chives: Adds a mild oniony note and a lovely pop of green to finish.

How to Make Lobster Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce and Basil Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Lobster and Broth

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil; the salt level should mimic seawater to enhance the lobster’s natural flavor. Boil the whole lobsters for about 8 minutes until they turn bright red. Once cooked and cool enough to handle, carefully remove the meat from the shells and set it aside. Don’t toss the shells just yet—return them to the pot (after removing the innards) and simmer for another 30 minutes to create a rich lobster broth that adds unmatched depth to your sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your lobster broth is simmering, cook the pasta in a large pot of well-salted boiling water based on the package instructions. Remember, the water should taste like the sea for perfectly seasoned noodles. Save a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining—it’s a secret weapon for finishing the sauce and achieving that lovely glossy coating.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and let it caramelize until it turns a deep reddish brown, unlocking intense tomato flavors. Deglaze the pan with 1/2 cup of the homemade lobster broth and reduce the liquid by two-thirds to concentrate the taste. Then add the tomato passata, simmering until it thickens further, followed by another 1/2 cup of broth for additional richness. After reduction, incorporate 1/4 cup of lobster broth and 1/4 cup of reserved pasta water, stirring until the sauce becomes glossy and emulsified. Lower the heat and stir in the cream for that silky softness.

Step 4: Combine Lobster and Pasta

Gently fold in the succulent lobster meat along with the drained pasta, tossing everything to ensure that every strand is coated with the creamy tomato sauce. Add the torn basil leaves and chopped chives last, tossing once more to mix in their fragrant, fresh flavors evenly across the dish. Serve immediately to enjoy the pasta at its peak.

How to Serve Lobster Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce and Basil Recipe

A pale pink plate holds a heap of spaghetti noodles coated in a light red sauce, mixed with small pieces of orange-red lobster and garnished with chopped green herbs scattered on top and around the noodles. The pasta is thick and slightly twisted together, with some lobster claws visible among the layers. A silver fork is placed resting on the left side of the plate, partially under the pasta. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, with a small white bowl containing green chopped herbs placed nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation and flavor, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves for a pop of vibrant green and a handful of finely grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese for an added salty dimension. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the top right before serving brings a lovely shine and enhances aroma.

Side Dishes

This lobster pasta pairs beautifully with crisp, peppery arugula salad tossed lightly in lemon vinaigrette or a simple side of garlic bread toasted to golden perfection. These choices offer textural contrast and a refreshing balance to the richness of the creamy tomato sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning centerpiece, serve the pasta in warmed shallow bowls with large lobster claws artfully placed atop to showcase the star ingredient. Alternatively, individual portions presented in pasta nests with fresh basil sprigs make for charming, restaurant-quality plating that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the Lobster Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce and Basil Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Because lobster is delicate, try to enjoy it fresh, but refrigeration will keep the flavors together well for an easy next-day meal.

Freezing

Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal, as the pasta texture can suffer and the delicate lobster may become rubbery. If you must freeze, do so without the pasta—store the sauce and lobster separately in tightly sealed containers for up to one month, then thaw gently in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the sauce and lobster gently over low heat with a splash of lobster broth or cream to revive the sauce’s texture. Toss in freshly cooked pasta for best texture or reheat the leftover pasta quickly in the microwave, stirring to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen lobster meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! While fresh lobster offers the best flavor and texture, high-quality frozen lobster meat can work well. Just thaw it fully and gently fold it in at the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.

What pasta type works best for Lobster Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce and Basil Recipe?

Traditional Italian pasta like linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti work beautifully, as their long strands hold onto the luscious sauce perfectly. However, feel free to experiment with your favorites.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. While the texture will differ slightly, it will remain creamy and delicious.

How long does it take to make this recipe?

The entire process takes about 40 minutes, including prepping and cooking time, making it an achievable yet impressive dish for weeknight or weekend dinners.

Can I prepare the lobster broth in advance?

Definitely. Lobster broth can be made up to one day ahead and refrigerated, which actually enhances the flavors and saves time when you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about making and sharing this Lobster Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce and Basil Recipe. It feels indulgent without being pretentious, comforting yet elegant. Once you try it, you might just find it becoming your go-to dish for celebrations or any time you want to impress with minimal fuss. Give it a whirl—you deserve this little luxury!