French Lobster Thermidor Delight Recipe
Introduction
French Lobster Thermidor Delight is a classic dish that brings the rich, creamy flavors of lobster in a decadent sauce topped with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for special occasions, it combines tender lobster meat with a savory mushroom cream sauce and a golden broiled finish.

Ingredients
- 2 live lobsters (1.5 pounds each)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lobsters for 8-10 minutes until bright red. Remove and cool slightly before cracking open.
- Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add shallots and sauté until translucent, about 2 minutes. Then add mushrooms and cook until tender.
- Step 3: Pour in white wine and simmer for 3-4 minutes until reduced by half. Stir in heavy cream and cook until the sauce slightly thickens, about 3 minutes.
- Step 4: Chop lobster meat into bite-sized pieces. Fold lobster, paprika, and half of the Parmesan cheese into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Preheat the broiler. Clean the lobster shells and fill them with the lobster mixture. Top with remaining Parmesan cheese and broil for 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh parsley for a bright finish, or substitute with tarragon for a subtle anise flavor.
- For extra richness, add a splash of brandy or cognac to the sauce before adding cream.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or simple green salad to balance the richness.
Storage
Store leftover lobster thermidor in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture intact.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen lobster for this recipe?
Fresh live lobsters are preferred for the best flavor and texture, but you can use cooked frozen lobster tails. Thaw thoroughly and chop the meat before folding into the sauce.
What can I serve with Lobster Thermidor?
Classic sides include steamed asparagus, green beans, or a light mixed greens salad. Crusty French bread also pairs wonderfully to soak up the creamy sauce.
PrintFrench Lobster Thermidor Delight Recipe
French Lobster Thermidor Delight is a classic French seafood dish featuring tender lobster meat cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with mushrooms, shallots, and a hint of white wine. The lobster shells are filled with the luscious mixture, topped with Parmesan cheese, and broiled to achieve a golden, bubbly crust. This elegant dish is perfect for special occasions or a luxurious dinner at home.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
Seafood
- 2 live lobsters (1.5 pounds each)
Sauce
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil Lobsters: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lobsters for 8-10 minutes until their shells turn bright red. Remove the lobsters and let them cool slightly before cracking them open and extracting the meat.
- Sauté Shallots and Mushrooms: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped shallots and sauté until translucent, about 2 minutes. Then add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender.
- Simmer with Wine and Cream: Pour in the dry white wine and allow it to simmer for 3-4 minutes until reduced by half. Stir in the heavy cream and cook until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 3 minutes.
- Combine Lobster and Sauce: Chop the lobster meat into bite-sized pieces. Gently fold the lobster, paprika, and half of the Parmesan cheese into the sauce mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Broil in Lobster Shells: Preheat the broiler. Clean the lobster shells and fill them evenly with the lobster and sauce mixture. Top each with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Place under the broiler for 3-5 minutes until the topping turns golden brown and bubbly. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh lobsters for the best flavor and texture.
- Dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc works well for the sauce.
- You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and assemble before broiling.
- Monitor closely while broiling to prevent burning.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
Keywords: Lobster Thermidor, French seafood recipe, creamy lobster dish, lobster with Parmesan, broiled lobster

