Spring Dinner Party | Daffodils & Tulips | Lobster Mac and Cheese & Tiramisu Cake

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho1qYbscxf34RHoBKO5dzfty_NZ0jRVcwW7ZQio_gYy1rxxALUvWuMeMPGbvupESUqLIuRjJxW-ZtTk4s8OYRfMaBK7NerPwctKI0j2hbSlkDLrjOBi_S7k42XaFHVzjj7lEZKeM7Xgqc/s1600/IMG_2171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho1qYbscxf34RHoBKO5dzfty_NZ0jRVcwW7ZQio_gYy1rxxALUvWuMeMPGbvupESUqLIuRjJxW-ZtTk4s8OYRfMaBK7NerPwctKI0j2hbSlkDLrjOBi_S7k42XaFHVzjj7lEZKeM7Xgqc/s640/IMG_2171.jpg" width="426" /></a></div> When we moved from our first Fairway home 2 years ago (this weekend!) we realized we never got to know our neighbors.  We gave halfhearted waves when we took out the trash and smiled at their kids playing in the street, but that was the extent of it.  It seems crazy that we had lived for so long in such close proximity to people that we never bothered to get to know, it seems like such a waste - a missed opportunity.  <br /><a data-pin-config="above" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F03%2Fspring-dinner-party-daffodils-tulips.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-0GlrtWW-Tog%2FUUd3jVDpL9I%2FAAAAAAAARb8%2F0GsXW2aj0yQ%2Fs640%2Fspring-dinner-party.jpg&description=Spring%20Dinner%20Party%20-%20simple%20flowers%20for%20a%20Spring%20Party%20-%20Easter%20Centerpiece"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />When we moved to our home in <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/05/lilac-season-mr-darcy-stopping-to-smell.html">Concord, Ma.</a>, we vowed that we would get to know our neighbors... it was essential - we saw it as one of our only ways to meet people in our new town.  We ended up meeting a great family across the street - Jenny and Mike.  We both had white fluffy dogs and white Cape Cod style houses.  They were so kind to us as the new folks in town and even invited us to their Thanksgiving dinner and Jenny introduced me to her group of girl friends (remember the <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/06/ladies-night-cocktail-party-on-patio.html">Ladies Night Patio Party</a>?).<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F03%2Feaster-sugar-cookies.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-L4SpqrJSnw0%2FUUkr3yG1qLI%2FAAAAAAAAReU%2FlWwWt1oirxY%2Fs640%2Feaster-sugar-cookies.jpg&description=Easter%20Sugar%20Cookies%20-%20Chicks%2C%20Eggs%2C%20Birds%20%26%20Bunnies" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F03%2Feaster-sugar-cookies.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-L4SpqrJSnw0%2FUUkr3yG1qLI%2FAAAAAAAAReU%2FlWwWt1oirxY%2Fs640%2Feaster-sugar-cookies.jpg&description=Easter%20Sugar%20Cookies%20-%20Chicks%2C%20Eggs%2C%20Birds%20%26%20Bunnies" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr1S4CgSf2I90LDgS1AOSMfd9zol0Eo-zqWsMX2LN9Yaw1E_56PimxojQSS7pqJiHqsPgFnAMVr4N54ABNgUJyT1LdhW__BYzq0dtSvy69yQQR62OYbXqAMpBOWIcP6K6Xz7JaQ5t9sD0/s1600/IMG_2194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr1S4CgSf2I90LDgS1AOSMfd9zol0Eo-zqWsMX2LN9Yaw1E_56PimxojQSS7pqJiHqsPgFnAMVr4N54ABNgUJyT1LdhW__BYzq0dtSvy69yQQR62OYbXqAMpBOWIcP6K6Xz7JaQ5t9sD0/s640/IMG_2194.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Above : <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/04/nine-color-salad-spin-pizza.html">Nine Color Salad, recipe here</a><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F03%2Feaster-sugar-cookies.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-L4SpqrJSnw0%2FUUkr3yG1qLI%2FAAAAAAAAReU%2FlWwWt1oirxY%2Fs640%2Feaster-sugar-cookies.jpg&description=Easter%20Sugar%20Cookies%20-%20Chicks%2C%20Eggs%2C%20Birds%20%26%20Bunnies" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"> </a><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F03%2Feaster-sugar-cookies.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-L4SpqrJSnw0%2FUUkr3yG1qLI%2FAAAAAAAAReU%2FlWwWt1oirxY%2Fs640%2Feaster-sugar-cookies.jpg&description=Easter%20Sugar%20Cookies%20-%20Chicks%2C%20Eggs%2C%20Birds%20%26%20Bunnies" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"> </a><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F03%2Feaster-sugar-cookies.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-L4SpqrJSnw0%2FUUkr3yG1qLI%2FAAAAAAAAReU%2FlWwWt1oirxY%2Fs640%2Feaster-sugar-cookies.jpg&description=Easter%20Sugar%20Cookies%20-%20Chicks%2C%20Eggs%2C%20Birds%20%26%20Bunnies" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br /><br />We made the move into our new home in our old neighborhood last fall and made the same vow - we want to know the people that we share this lovely street with.  As a girl who grew up in the country whose nearest neighbors were no where near the 5 second walk like they are in Fairway, I was always enchanted by neighborhood life.  When I was a little girl I loved spending the night with my Granny who lived in a great little neighborhood.  There was a certain buzz in the mornings, afternoons and evenings when people were coming and going, saying their hellos and goodbyes that we just didn't have out in the country.  In the country, you knew Mom or Dad was home when you heard the crunch of gravel - a sound I still love.  (Side note, do you think they'd allow a granite pea gravel drive in Fairway?  If it's good enough for East Hampton and Concord - not to mention Lexington...)<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuZWO6bbeXWeqKHMzOXI50CXadJ7OskbyEpWNO95CRKFNf58Qrs7CErfJpgdTFSh6eVn3l_Q_OwEII8yCmAi8aZTnc1fdZMq5_6sOkL8UPkbYW1VJIM1GF3nxjlJOdXUPF1owX83ttOi8/s1600/IMG_2180.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuZWO6bbeXWeqKHMzOXI50CXadJ7OskbyEpWNO95CRKFNf58Qrs7CErfJpgdTFSh6eVn3l_Q_OwEII8yCmAi8aZTnc1fdZMq5_6sOkL8UPkbYW1VJIM1GF3nxjlJOdXUPF1owX83ttOi8/s640/IMG_2180.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />You might remember the Holiday Happy Hour we hosted for our street - it was amazing.  Everyone that came said how glad they were to receive the invitation.  Most were shocked by our audacity - how brave we were!  And they loved it.  Since then, we've been invited to other dinners and cocktail hours by our neighbors and Mr. Darcy and I have new walking buddies... at 6:15 am that I miss more than I make.  I highly recommend extending an olive brand to your neighbors - it has been such a fulfilling experience for us.  Interestingly enough, making warm and "neighborly" relationships with our neighbors has made our home feel much more "homey" than an piece of furniture or window treatment could ever do.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLyuZGkzrE_xantLZ6y43IykaaMl87I_ifaKvTr62U10gnaxFfLTa91RSD9DF3MB1nUIB8_8rXBLFy640-_81Be-zrDywKmtrz3tgRe91T-7kF8QloVFW-arBpf0m304fxAkluTUwOQR4/s1600/IMG_2185.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLyuZGkzrE_xantLZ6y43IykaaMl87I_ifaKvTr62U10gnaxFfLTa91RSD9DF3MB1nUIB8_8rXBLFy640-_81Be-zrDywKmtrz3tgRe91T-7kF8QloVFW-arBpf0m304fxAkluTUwOQR4/s640/IMG_2185.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />Most recently, we hosted our neighbors over for dinner last Thursday night.  Since it was a Thursday night dinner, I had to make everything during the day while Emma was at school.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZPMU-GzATZJ6ONX2fwtsJgAB8x9K565oPj7y6Z-nuPy0jRSI6nncxVNjfbQMBh6nI8NST9u4927LtkWlzzEexne_sXJH2HMmv4r7WdjXS8PVMItZkbiwiibt2gCQmcOGlzoG2QAukTHc/s1600/IMG_2202.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZPMU-GzATZJ6ONX2fwtsJgAB8x9K565oPj7y6Z-nuPy0jRSI6nncxVNjfbQMBh6nI8NST9u4927LtkWlzzEexne_sXJH2HMmv4r7WdjXS8PVMItZkbiwiibt2gCQmcOGlzoG2QAukTHc/s640/IMG_2202.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />So, I selected my menu based on what would be easily made ahead of time.  I landed on <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/04/lobster-mac-and-cheese-recipe-best.html">Lobster Macaroni and Cheese</a> because it is something that everyone loves, seems a little special, but is not too fancy so to make it a stuffy night.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpE2Mv_4j2waWPgVDzV3fsUgFqr_iiyqc5-sFogquT6Pa1mOIROmlDaP3ynAAZX0L8XqCSWgBjRDlJbIfMvbRPlrKHEfDU88stDJIhln6cr8u10Lexhyphenhyphen6XL1mj1xOmA15eYDKQM8DQIyA/s1600/IMG_2243.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpE2Mv_4j2waWPgVDzV3fsUgFqr_iiyqc5-sFogquT6Pa1mOIROmlDaP3ynAAZX0L8XqCSWgBjRDlJbIfMvbRPlrKHEfDU88stDJIhln6cr8u10Lexhyphenhyphen6XL1mj1xOmA15eYDKQM8DQIyA/s640/IMG_2243.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />For dessert I decided to do a spin on one of Mike's favorite - Tiramisu Pound Cake.  I made a Vanilla Pound Cake, cut it into layers, soaked each layer with a combination of coffee, vanilla and espresso liquor and filled it with a sweetened Mascarpone Cheese.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxUwmHFtL59zi64L4JzcpbHV4dj9VyCj80LOYtKq4IFhkZh-ogG2SqaEQxUdfhcEot3GQrAZ45XSj7_djjRaDUpJrslGNFl8TQBfxXYXRTXKg7DFR1jU63uhh6ovJRlzXHKKTbnjXUJ9I/s1600/spring-dinner-party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxUwmHFtL59zi64L4JzcpbHV4dj9VyCj80LOYtKq4IFhkZh-ogG2SqaEQxUdfhcEot3GQrAZ45XSj7_djjRaDUpJrslGNFl8TQBfxXYXRTXKg7DFR1jU63uhh6ovJRlzXHKKTbnjXUJ9I/s640/spring-dinner-party.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>Stay tuned for the recipes this week and another dinner with another menu for another couple from our street next weekend!  I'll update this post with the recipe links.<br /><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/04/nine-color-salad-spin-pizza.html">Nine Color Salad</a><br /><a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/04/lobster-mac-and-cheese-recipe-best.html">Lobster Macaroni and Cheese</a><br /><br /><a data-pin-config="above" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F03%2Fspring-dinner-party-daffodils-tulips.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-0GlrtWW-Tog%2FUUd3jVDpL9I%2FAAAAAAAARb8%2F0GsXW2aj0yQ%2Fs640%2Fspring-dinner-party.jpg&description=Spring%20Dinner%20Party%20-%20simple%20flowers%20for%20a%20Spring%20Party%20-%20Easter%20Centerpiece"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Spring Dinner Party | Daffodils & Tulips | Lobster Mac and Cheese & Tiramisu Cake

 When we moved from our first Fairway home 2 years ago (this weekend!) we realized we never got to know our neighbors.  We gave halfhearted ...

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The Best Mac and Cheese Recipe | Baked Macaroni and Cheese

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS0BV6mAZcTWL3V9fdtLwUeT8GhCtar40dKfdNC6a34K34w2uMpI9swcmy86CUb-Ya4NCH5kJsMyYpvidpo648nKuZJ43dVNbRVddCmtKlTkvRPKYMnvFV_djr2zVxSgFECWI027QWpew/s1600/IMG_1354.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS0BV6mAZcTWL3V9fdtLwUeT8GhCtar40dKfdNC6a34K34w2uMpI9swcmy86CUb-Ya4NCH5kJsMyYpvidpo648nKuZJ43dVNbRVddCmtKlTkvRPKYMnvFV_djr2zVxSgFECWI027QWpew/s640/IMG_1354.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I remember being at my Grandma Steffens' house when I was about 6 or 7 and she asked what I wanted for lunch.  Macaroni and Cheese.  It was the only thing I would eat when I was younger.  It was an obsession.  A problem.  The only macaroni and cheese I would eat came from a blue box.  In fact, at least once a week you can bet that I'm still treating myself to a box of Kraft Macaroni and Cheese.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcqTrM4c8hLXPXJi_3_ZvSjAvCn4EzslH-AK0oQ1M-ZGfQYlWkYZ2rifcJJP0vOXLoQTlFilgjeBrINhr3uE6614tZMqaLgaUpj_kNKBsy7-lC1PpM7wj3SbN_8UBCsNwV50sZt-2CvK4/s1600/IMG_1357.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcqTrM4c8hLXPXJi_3_ZvSjAvCn4EzslH-AK0oQ1M-ZGfQYlWkYZ2rifcJJP0vOXLoQTlFilgjeBrINhr3uE6614tZMqaLgaUpj_kNKBsy7-lC1PpM7wj3SbN_8UBCsNwV50sZt-2CvK4/s640/IMG_1357.jpg" width="435" /></a></div><br />On that day at my Grandma's house I can remember her pulling a casserole dish out of the oven and putting it on the table.  The top had a layer of bubbling cheese.  I was terrified.  What was is?  Doesn't she know that Macaroni and Cheese is cooked in a saucepan, not a casserole dish?  Where was the powdered yellow-orange cheese?! <br /><br />I'm not suggesting you should make this Baked Mac and Cheese recipe for your very picky 6-year-old, but I guarantee will be a big hit with anyone over the age 12.  Or 18, maybe.  If you really want to go for it... try my <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/04/lobster-mac-and-cheese-recipe-best.html" target="_blank">Lobster Mac and Cheese</a> - great for Valentine's Day...  Would be great with a <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2011/12/filet-mignon-filet-of-beef-seared.html" target="_blank">Pan-Seared Filet Mignon</a>!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3mhWAr-d00i0ptTXVzrt9nBXi5ZNQRw9Pqyi2TBSVBl4-Fbh6HEdAuBAwzV9YZazbbiRRFvWWiXVlpvHtzJRtwf2jFxnNcbAM0tmvtTi9s55srNwcM26D_stt36iDTyWkomAIFMUqbA/s1600/IMG_1351.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3mhWAr-d00i0ptTXVzrt9nBXi5ZNQRw9Pqyi2TBSVBl4-Fbh6HEdAuBAwzV9YZazbbiRRFvWWiXVlpvHtzJRtwf2jFxnNcbAM0tmvtTi9s55srNwcM26D_stt36iDTyWkomAIFMUqbA/s320/IMG_1351.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">Baked Mac and Cheese</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">beyond the blue box</span></i> </span><br /><br />1 pound of macaroni<br />sea salt<br />1 stick of butter<br />1/2 cup of flour<br />4 cups of milk<br />12 ounces of cheddar, shredded<br />8 ounces of havarti cheese, shredded<br />1/2 teaspoon of cracked pepper <br />4 slices of bread, for crumbs<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcqTrM4c8hLXPXJi_3_ZvSjAvCn4EzslH-AK0oQ1M-ZGfQYlWkYZ2rifcJJP0vOXLoQTlFilgjeBrINhr3uE6614tZMqaLgaUpj_kNKBsy7-lC1PpM7wj3SbN_8UBCsNwV50sZt-2CvK4/s1600/IMG_1357.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Bring a large pot of water to boil.  Add a couple of tablespoons of sea salt. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dSsv8LOvw1t2yfgfPxZdPNBRY2RCxvq7DKvPcN0_3kBbkBtBHAa1tkYMZYEkhkxPos0h5CUjfWqx7sdGXmoaw5io8RXd6n2a2MksZ03IdtHHq-tAEClLvujrGK3jVo2_pW1hAF0Og6U/s1600/IMG_1333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dSsv8LOvw1t2yfgfPxZdPNBRY2RCxvq7DKvPcN0_3kBbkBtBHAa1tkYMZYEkhkxPos0h5CUjfWqx7sdGXmoaw5io8RXd6n2a2MksZ03IdtHHq-tAEClLvujrGK3jVo2_pW1hAF0Og6U/s640/IMG_1333.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />In a saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of butter on medium low heat.  Stir in flour.  Cook butter and flour for 1 minute, while stirring.  Whisk in milk.  Cook over heat while whisking, until smooth.  Cook for 5 minutes on medium until thickened and bubbly.  The mixture should coat the back of a spoon.  Remove from heat. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmDiUdCPMdKC6MyQlH-9XqBucfowVtlps2h905HXWuk4SEXvUe1dZCjN6BcZ-ExWET7_yWJwDJ5ytpxa4vA814e-d8rPNoThYTWt_2IZLvm69sRfTsoCZPjeDzeye78VTelFKXXhJeYIo/s1600/IMG_1338.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmDiUdCPMdKC6MyQlH-9XqBucfowVtlps2h905HXWuk4SEXvUe1dZCjN6BcZ-ExWET7_yWJwDJ5ytpxa4vA814e-d8rPNoThYTWt_2IZLvm69sRfTsoCZPjeDzeye78VTelFKXXhJeYIo/s640/IMG_1338.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Add shredded cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.  Season with cracked pepper.  Set aside.<br /><br />Cook pasta until almost done - making sure it is not completely cooked.  Strain the pasta.  Add pasta into the cheese sauce and stir to coat the pasta.  Pour into a baking dish. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTkdiCI4OYPqHJb6bP6UNXmHeT6TLGIxD4Pg6in9zHzBIltaTQQnuT_WdwdcBaqb-tM9D-7IdEgFbBhXAXI4DP4XHcSJylJI-RsihTFbh3MP4YlI2Q0JqnsZUuFodp3oBhpNRmg6koIx0/s1600/IMG_1345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTkdiCI4OYPqHJb6bP6UNXmHeT6TLGIxD4Pg6in9zHzBIltaTQQnuT_WdwdcBaqb-tM9D-7IdEgFbBhXAXI4DP4XHcSJylJI-RsihTFbh3MP4YlI2Q0JqnsZUuFodp3oBhpNRmg6koIx0/s640/IMG_1345.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />To make breadcrumbs, pulse bread in a food processor until it is in fine crumbs.  In a small skillet, melt remaining two tablespoons of butter, add the bread crumbs and cook over medium heat until they have toasted.  Sprinkle breadcrumbs on the top of the macaroni.  Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly.  <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIZfSOzUsVYAYqhDjjnqprSR2rzC3czl-jCjGH1KwMQt80wfgRUo4IzDq2vF9ZXLQmox2xiOH2VvNnplIgmeffBy9QVBvby_zYMAJ4kQ115ZJlDdrICCIH5LZaiZK21_O4xouKcKv8bj8/s1600/IMG_1356.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="572" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIZfSOzUsVYAYqhDjjnqprSR2rzC3czl-jCjGH1KwMQt80wfgRUo4IzDq2vF9ZXLQmox2xiOH2VvNnplIgmeffBy9QVBvby_zYMAJ4kQ115ZJlDdrICCIH5LZaiZK21_O4xouKcKv8bj8/s640/IMG_1356.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>

The Best Mac and Cheese Recipe | Baked Macaroni and Cheese

I remember being at my Grandma Steffens' house when I was about 6 or 7 and she asked what I wanted for lunch.  Macaroni and Cheese.  It ...

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Lobster Mac and Cheese Recipe | The Best Lobster Mac & Cheese at Home`

<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8QqSD5zZv00O_PUnQeNulcQhighGmrHSyP9T9jSZ9VtarDfVq-OYOWQDuBW43dU2SrmJ25i4FTJjn3-PAWswYCuOWIYwdKk2ec7V8U-UXttQVaeBamyj6QSbG_f0bd7YWQNqDbOaQCju3/s1600/Lobster+Mac+and+Cheese+Recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="616" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8QqSD5zZv00O_PUnQeNulcQhighGmrHSyP9T9jSZ9VtarDfVq-OYOWQDuBW43dU2SrmJ25i4FTJjn3-PAWswYCuOWIYwdKk2ec7V8U-UXttQVaeBamyj6QSbG_f0bd7YWQNqDbOaQCju3/s640/Lobster+Mac+and+Cheese+Recipe.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lobster Mac and Cheese Recipe</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Lobster Mac and Cheese Recipe<br /><br />I always thought that Lobster Mac & Cheese was just too indulgent to make at home.  It seems like something so frivolous, financially indulgent and, well, a waste.  In Boston (our new temporary home - more about that later!), Lobster Mac & Cheese is everywhere - on every menu.  I see it on menus more often than I do 'Chowdah.'  Most menus have it listed for $25.  Yikes.  I calculated that I would be able to make enough for 2 large servings for less $25.  It still blows my $10 dinner budget, but it is a great splurge for a Saturday night dinner.<br /><br />After some research on "The Best Homemade Mac and Cheese" recipes, I decided to use The Barefoot Contessa's recipe as a starting point.  I used white cheddar, gruyere and added some colby jack to balance the flavor of the stronger cheeses.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigHLITKdSxO5oEchcDfo6MVtntGiX3FeyyJnOcrT06-l0RroOpyv7YSCkkwLZ2gMvu2i3D4iStuc2UwVUsGFPN8WOeUdDOz8WlJXse-peJzWADZF0ktwAIDopqimU08R8_sd3hUcCvDFzb/s1600/IMG_8434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigHLITKdSxO5oEchcDfo6MVtntGiX3FeyyJnOcrT06-l0RroOpyv7YSCkkwLZ2gMvu2i3D4iStuc2UwVUsGFPN8WOeUdDOz8WlJXse-peJzWADZF0ktwAIDopqimU08R8_sd3hUcCvDFzb/s320/IMG_8434.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I bought a live lobster and steamed it at home, but that is not necessary.  Actually, I really didn't like cooking the live lobster - I know, I know we all need to be conscious of where our food comes from, and be conscious that eating meat is actually eating a once live animal... but, I think I'll just buy it pre-steamed next time.  <br /><a name="more"></a><br /><br /><br />Lobster Mac and Cheese for Two<br />1 1/2 pound Lobster, cooked<br />1/2 pound of Cavatappi pasta<br />2 tablespoons of sea salt <br />4 cups of milk<br />4 tablespoons of butter (divided)<br />1/4 cup of all-purpose flour<br />4 ounces of Gruyere Cheese, shredded<br />6 ounces of White Cheddar, shredded<br />4 ounces of Colby Jack, shredded<br />1/4 teaspoon of black pepper<br />1/4 teaspoon of sea salt <br />3/4 cups of fresh bread crumbs (2 slices of bread)<br /><br />Remove the meat from the claws and tail of the lobster.  Discard the shell (or save to make stock).  Cut the meat into 1 to 1/2 inch pieces.<br /><br />Begin by boiling a large pot of water - add 2 tablespoons of sea salt.  When the water has reached boiling, add the pasta.  Cook for 6-7 minutes.  I like to cook pasta 2 minutes shorter than the directed time on the package, in general.<br /><br />For the cheese sauce, begin by making a simple white sauce* by melting 3 tablespoons of butter on medium in a heavy bottomed sauce pan.  Reserve the remaining 1 tablespoon for the breadcrumb topping.  Add flour to the butter, stirring with a whisk.  Stir and cook over medium low for 1 minute, until flour is cooked.  Pour in milk, stirring until smooth.  Cook over medium high heat for 5 minutes until the sauce has thickened.<br /><br />*You've just made a roux, a basic white sauce!  Most bisques, chowders, cream sauces are made from a roux.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3AM7tTLeR8t3E7FGA9qvUZ2JVFre88VnhhDb6rrCzZhAyvZb401dKT9X8DlWYq1iIf4bPazEKYL1Az9QMEU-4NwUjNxi6x7ZVfz6xBT3WvGJfCLmWtn6ULhjrbdWXxnfHjNH9UBKlUMAu/s1600/IMG_8438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3AM7tTLeR8t3E7FGA9qvUZ2JVFre88VnhhDb6rrCzZhAyvZb401dKT9X8DlWYq1iIf4bPazEKYL1Az9QMEU-4NwUjNxi6x7ZVfz6xBT3WvGJfCLmWtn6ULhjrbdWXxnfHjNH9UBKlUMAu/s320/IMG_8438.JPG" width="320" /></a>Remove the sauce from the heat.  Add all of the grated cheese and stir until smooth.  Add pasta into the cheese sauce and stir to coat.  Add the lobster in and season with salt & pepper.  Distribute into 2 oven proof bowls.<br /><br />To make breadcrumbs, tear the 2 slices of bread into a food processor.  Whirl until evenly crumby.  Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in a small bowl, then add breadcrumbs and toss with the butter.  Crumble the breadcrumbs on top of the pasta.<br /><br />Broil the mac and cheese for 1 -2 minutes until the breadcrumbs have browned.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZD_Wj4LzEw97DYtjtkAIJk62vILajIxmDJDu7h5Grt6w2m6oSwqQ4iu167AUgMD3Ov7zHL7Dt9b_GaQHj3Ci5zPWajvJKbbgeDGEMANNODU37QTXHsf7djjgjTokQJ4vHA7J3PUArC-M/s1600/IMG_8473.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="612" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZD_Wj4LzEw97DYtjtkAIJk62vILajIxmDJDu7h5Grt6w2m6oSwqQ4iu167AUgMD3Ov7zHL7Dt9b_GaQHj3Ci5zPWajvJKbbgeDGEMANNODU37QTXHsf7djjgjTokQJ4vHA7J3PUArC-M/s640/IMG_8473.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>

Lobster Mac and Cheese Recipe | The Best Lobster Mac & Cheese at Home`

Lobster Mac and Cheese Recipe Lobster Mac and Cheese Recipe I always thought that Lobster Mac & Cheese was just too indulgent to make at...

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