Stovetop Lobster Macaroni and Cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Reduce the heat to a rapid simmer, add the lobster tails and cook for 4 to 5 minutes (45 to 60 seconds per ounce). Using tongs, remove the lobster from the water and set aside to drain and cool.
2. Bring the water back to a boil, add the cavatappi and cook until tender but not soft (al dente). Drain and set aside.
3. Note: Cooking the pasta in the same water that the lobster was cooked in adds extra flavor.
4. Heat the milk in the microwave or a separate saucepan until very warm, but not scalded. Set aside.
5. Melt the butter in a large, heavy saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and blend with a whisk until well combined. Continue cooking, whisking constantly, until the mixture develops a pale golden color, 3 to 4 minutes. Gradually add the warmed milk, whisking continually until well blended.
6. Continue cooking, whisking frequently, until the sauce is smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, 7 to 8 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the pan with a spatula once or twice during cooking to ensure there are no lumps in your sauce. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
7. Reduce the heat to low, add the Gruyére and stir until completely melted. Add the mascarpone and continue stirring until the sauce is smooth. Add the cavatappi, lobster and chives. Combine well, remove from the heat and allow to stand 5 minutes. Stir again, then serve.