There’s something magical about recreating iconic restaurant dishes at home, and the Hilltop Steakhouse lobster pie is a legendary New England treasure worth mastering.
This creamy, decadent seafood casserole features tender chunks of lobster swimming in a rich sherry-infused sauce, topped with a buttery, golden crust that crackles with every bite.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving that nostalgic steakhouse elegance, learning how to make Hilltop Steakhouse lobster pie brings restaurant-quality luxury straight to your dinner table.
This copycat Hilltop Steakhouse lobster pie recipe captures all the indulgent flavors that made the original Route 1 landmark so beloved.
What Does Hilltop Steakhouse Lobster Pie Taste Like?
Imagine the most luxurious seafood experience-sweet, succulent lobster meat bathed in a velvety cream sauce enriched with dry sherry’s nutty complexity.
The half-and-half creates a silky texture that coats each lobster chunk, while egg yolks add body and richness reminiscent of classic French cuisine.
The buttery Ritz cracker topping provides textural contrast with its crispy, golden-brown finish, accented by a subtle hint of paprika and the savory depth of Parmesan cheese.
It’s simultaneously elegant and comforting-pure New England coastal indulgence with a touch of old-school steakhouse glamour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup Ritz cracker crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
- 4 tablespoons melted butter (divided)
- 1 tablespoon potato chips (finely crushed)
For the Filling:
- 8 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1/2 cup dry Sherry
- 1 pound lobster meat (cooked, chopped into chunks, 2 cups)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half
- 4 large egg yolks
Kitchen Utensils and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Four ramekins or one gratin dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
How to Make Hilltop Steakhouse Lobster Pie: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and position the rack in the center for even baking.
Step 2: Begin preparing the topping by gathering your cracker crumbs, paprika, and Parmesan cheese.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the Ritz cracker crumbs, paprika, and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing thoroughly.
Step 4: Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand with an even consistency. Add the crushed potato chips for extra crunch, then set aside.
Step 5: Now move on to creating the luxurious filling that defines this copycat Hilltop Steakhouse lobster pie recipe.
Step 6: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter until it’s foaming and fragrant.
Step 7: Add the dry sherry and allow it to boil vigorously for 1 minute to concentrate the flavors and cook off the harsh alcohol.
Step 8: Add the chopped lobster meat, stir gently to coat with the sherry butter, then immediately remove the skillet from heat to prevent overcooking the delicate seafood.
Step 9: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining 5 tablespoons of butter. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the roux becomes smooth, glossy, and smells slightly nutty. Remove from heat.
Step 10: Carefully drain and reserve all the sherry and cooking juices from the lobster skillet. Slowly whisk this flavorful liquid along with the half-and-half into your butter-flour roux. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to a creamy, coating consistency-about 5-7 minutes.
Step 11: Spoon 4 tablespoons of the hot sauce into a small bowl. Add the egg yolks one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition to temper them properly and prevent scrambling.
Step 12: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the main sauce, whisking constantly. Cook over low heat for about 3 minutes, stirring continuously-never let it boil or you’ll risk curdling. Remove from heat and gently fold in the reserved lobster meat.
Step 13: Divide the creamy lobster mixture evenly among four individual ramekins or pour into a single gratin dish for family-style serving.
Step 14: Generously sprinkle the buttery crumb topping over each portion, ensuring even coverage. Bake until the topping turns golden brown and the filling bubbles around the edges, approximately 10-15 minutes.
Step 15: Remove from the oven, let rest for 2-3 minutes, then serve immediately while gloriously hot.
Creative Customization and Pairing Ideas for Your Lobster Pie
1. Seafood Medley Variation: Transform this into a mixed seafood pie by substituting half the lobster with jumbo lump crab meat or bay scallops. This creates complexity while stretching premium lobster further without sacrificing luxury.
2. Herbed Enhancement: Elevate the filling by adding 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon or chives to the cream sauce. These herbs complement seafood beautifully and add a French bistro sophistication that pairs wonderfully with the sherry.
3. Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, incorporate 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper into the topping or add a dash of Old Bay seasoning to the filling. This Maryland-style twist adds warmth without overwhelming the delicate lobster.
4. Wine Pairing Perfection: Serve alongside a chilled glass of Chardonnay or Chablis. The wine’s buttery notes mirror the rich sauce, while its acidity cuts through the cream beautifully. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling apple cider.
5. Classic Steakhouse Sides: Honor the Hilltop Steakhouse tradition by pairing with garlic mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, or a crisp wedge salad with blue cheese dressing. Add crusty sourdough bread for soaking up every drop of sauce.
6. Lighter Accompaniments: Balance the richness with simple steamed asparagus, roasted green beans with almonds, or a bright arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette and shaved fennel.
7. Individual Presentation Ideas: Impress dinner guests by baking in seafood shells or mini cast-iron skillets instead of ramekins. This restaurant-worthy presentation makes each serving feel extra special and Instagram-worthy.
Expert Tips for Perfect Hilltop Steakhouse Lobster Pie
1. Lobster Meat Selection:
Use fresh, quality lobster meat-preferably knuckle and claw meat for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen lobster, thaw completely and pat very dry before using to prevent a watery sauce. Avoid imitation lobster, which lacks the sweet, briny essence essential to this dish.
2. Don’t Overcook the Lobster:
Since you’re using pre-cooked lobster that will bake further in the oven, minimize its time in the hot sherry. Overcooked lobster becomes rubbery and loses its tender, succulent quality. The brief sauté is just for flavoring.
3. Master the Roux:
The butter-flour mixture is the foundation of your cream sauce. Cook it until it smells nutty but hasn’t browned-this removes the raw flour taste while maintaining a light color. A properly cooked roux ensures a silky-smooth sauce without lumps.
4. Temperature Control for Egg Yolks:
Tempering is crucial when adding egg yolks to hot liquid. Always add hot sauce to the yolks gradually while whisking vigorously, never the reverse. This gradual temperature increase prevents scrambled eggs and creates that luxurious, velvety texture.
5. Sherry Selection Matters:
Use a quality dry sherry like Fino or Amontillado-cooking sherry from the grocery store contains salt and additives that compromise flavor. The real deal adds sophisticated depth that defines this copycat Hilltop Steakhouse lobster pie recipe.
6. Watch the Oven Closely:
Since the filling is already cooked, you’re simply heating through and browning the topping. Check at 10 minutes to prevent burning. The perfect lobster pie has a golden-brown crust with bubbling edges, not a dark, overdone top.
7. Resting Time:
Let the baked pies rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This brief pause allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes serving cleaner. However, don’t wait too long-this dish is best enjoyed piping hot when the contrast between the crispy topping and creamy filling is most pronounced.
Storage and Reheating Guidance
Store leftover lobster pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a 325°F oven for 10-12 minutes until warmed through, covering with foil to prevent the topping from over-browning.
Common Questions About Hilltop Steakhouse Lobster Pie
We’re here to help! Below, you’ll find answers to common questions people usually have about this recipe.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the lobster pie completely, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-7 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
What can I substitute for sherry?
Dry white wine or dry vermouth works well as a sherry substitute. For non-alcoholic options, use seafood stock with a splash of white wine vinegar for acidity.
Can I freeze lobster pie?
It’s not recommended, as the cream sauce and egg yolks don’t freeze well and may separate upon thawing, resulting in a grainy texture.
Why is my sauce too thin?
Make sure your roux cooks long enough (2-3 minutes) and that the sauce simmers until thickened before adding eggs. The egg yolks also help thicken, so ensure they’re properly incorporated.
What’s the purpose of potato chips in the topping?
The crushed potato chips add extra crunch and a subtle savory flavor that complements the buttery Ritz crackers-it’s a signature touch from the original Hilltop recipe.
Can I use whole milk instead of half-and-half?
You can, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For best results mimicking the original, stick with half-and-half or even add 1/4 cup heavy cream.
How do I know when the lobster pie is done?
The topping should be golden brown and the filling should bubble around the edges. The center should be hot throughout-insert a knife in the center and touch it to your lip to check temperature.
Hilltop Steakhouse Lobster Pie Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and position the rack in the center for even baking.
- Step 2: Begin preparing the topping by gathering your cracker crumbs, paprika, and Parmesan cheese.
- Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the Ritz cracker crumbs, paprika, and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing thoroughly.
- Step 4: Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand with an even consistency. Add the crushed potato chips for extra crunch, then set aside.
- Step 5: Now move on to creating the luxurious filling that defines this copycat Hilltop Steakhouse lobster pie recipe.
- Step 6: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter until it’s foaming and fragrant.
- Step 7: Add the dry sherry and allow it to boil vigorously for 1 minute to concentrate the flavors and cook off the harsh alcohol.
- Step 8: Add the chopped lobster meat, stir gently to coat with the sherry butter, then immediately remove the skillet from heat to prevent overcooking the delicate seafood.
- Step 9: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining 5 tablespoons of butter. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the roux becomes smooth, glossy, and smells slightly nutty. Remove from heat.
- Step 10: Carefully drain and reserve all the sherry and cooking juices from the lobster skillet. Slowly whisk this flavorful liquid along with the half-and-half into your butter-flour roux. Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to a creamy, coating consistency-about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 11: Spoon 4 tablespoons of the hot sauce into a small bowl. Add the egg yolks one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition to temper them properly and prevent scrambling.
- Step 12: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the main sauce, whisking constantly. Cook over low heat for about 3 minutes, stirring continuously-never let it boil or you’ll risk curdling. Remove from heat and gently fold in the reserved lobster meat.
- Step 13: Divide the creamy lobster mixture evenly among four individual ramekins or pour into a single gratin dish for family-style serving.
- Step 14: Generously sprinkle the buttery crumb topping over each portion, ensuring even coverage. Bake until the topping turns golden brown and the filling bubbles around the edges, approximately 10-15 minutes.
- Step 15: Remove from the oven, let rest for 2-3 minutes, then serve immediately while gloriously hot.
Video
Notes
This copycat Hilltop Steakhouse lobster pie recipe brings a piece of New England dining history into your home kitchen. With its rich sherry-cream sauce, tender lobster chunks, and irresistibly crunchy topping, you’ve mastered a restaurant-quality dish that impresses every time.
The beauty of learning how to make Hilltop Steakhouse lobster pie is that you can recreate those special-occasion moments whenever the craving strikes. Serve it at your next dinner party or weekend celebration, and watch your guests’ faces light up with that first creamy, luxurious bite!
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