A sumptuous, creamy risotto showcasing tender lobster chunks and bright lemon flavors—perfect for a special dinner or an indulgent self-treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This risotto combines rich buttery creaminess with zesty lemon brightness, complemented by luxurious lobster chunks. It’s both elegant and comforting, making it an ideal dish to impress guests—or simply spoil yourself.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lobster tails, cooked and chopped
1½ cups Arborio rice
4 cups warm chicken or seafood broth
½ cup dry white wine
½ onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 Tbsp butter
1 Tbsp olive oil
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
¼ cup heavy cream (optional but adds luxurious richness)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

directions

Cook the lobster: Boil or steam lobster tails for 6–8 minutes until just cooked through. Remove meat, chop into bite‑sized pieces, and set aside.
Sauté aromatics: In a heavy pan, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Toast the rice: Stir in Arborio rice and cook for 1–2 minutes until the edges become translucent.
Deglaze: Pour in the white wine and stir until fully absorbed by the rice.
Add broth gradually: Ladle in warm broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously. Allow rice to absorb most of the liquid before adding more. Continue for 18–20 minutes until the rice is creamy yet al dente.
Finish risotto: Stir in Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, and lobster pieces. If using, add heavy cream. Warm through gently for 2–3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Spoon risotto into warmed bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Cook time: ~25 minutes
Total time: ~35 minutes

storage/reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat: Rewarm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving as it may cause separation.
Make‑ahead option: Prepare base risotto without lobster, broth, and cream; finish with fresh ingredients just before serving for optimal texture.

Variations

Creamy seafood deluxe: Add sautéed shrimp or scallops for a fuller seafood medley.
Herb infusion: Stir in chopped dill, tarragon, or chives with the parsley garnish for additional aroma.
Cheesy boost: Swap in mascarpone or cream cheese for extra richness.
Lemon-forward: Increase with extra grated zest or a squeeze of juice for a sharper citrus note.

FAQs

Is Arborio rice necessary?

Yes—Arborio offers the ideal starch release for that signature creamy risotto texture. Other short‑grain risotto rices like Carnaroli or Vialone Nano work too.

Can I use frozen lobster?

Yes—thaw fully and pat dry before chopping. Pre‑cooked frozen lobster works well.

What can substitute for white wine?

Use a dry vermouth or extra broth with a dash of white wine vinegar as an alternative.

Is heavy cream essential?

Not essential, but it adds luxurious creaminess. Without it, the dish remains richly satisfying.

How do I avoid overcooking lobster?

Stir lobster in at the end—just enough to warm through (~2–3 minutes); this prevents it from becoming rubbery.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes—omit lobster, use vegetable broth, and stir in lemon and Parmesan for a bright vegetarian risotto.

Can I prep components ahead?

Yes—cook broth, chop lobster, and sauté aromatics in advance. Finish the risotto to order.

What sides pair well?

Serve with a crisp green salad, sautéed greens, or roasted asparagus for a balanced meal.

Is this freezer‑friendly?

Not recommended—risotto loses its creamy texture when frozen and reheated.

How do I know risotto is done?

Grains should be tender but slightly firm in the center (al dente), with a thick, flowing sauce.

Conclusion

This Lemon Butter Lobster Risotto is an indulgent yet streamlined dinner that expertly balances richness and brightness. Its creamy texture, tender lobster, and vibrant lemon flavors make it a sophisticated centerpiece that’s easy to prepare yet guaranteed to impress. Enjoy every decadent, zesty spoonful.