Lobster Rolls Recipe

I still remember the first time I tasted an authentic Lobster Rolls Recipe during a summer trip to Maine five years ago.

The sweet, succulent lobster meat tucked into a buttery, toasted bun with just a hint of lemon changed everything I thought I knew about seafood sandwiches. I came home determined to recreate that magic in my own kitchen, and after countless trials (and a few disasters involving rubbery lobster), I’ve perfected a recipe that brings that coastal New England experience right to your table.

What makes this recipe special is the balance. Too much mayo and you lose the delicate lobster flavor. Too little butter on the bun and it’s just not the same. I learned the hard way that fresh lobster meat makes all the difference, and that gentle handling is key to keeping those chunks tender and intact.

Quick Recipe Summary
Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	10 minutes
Total Time	25 minutes
Servings	4 rolls
Difficulty Level	Easy

Why You’ll Love This Lobster Rolls Recipe

This recipe captures the essence of New England summer in every bite. The sweet lobster meat barely kissed with mayo lets the natural flavors shine through.

You don’t need to be a professional chef or have fancy equipment to pull this off. With just a few quality ingredients and about 25 minutes, you can create restaurant-quality lobster rolls that taste like they came straight from a seaside shack.

Here’s what makes this recipe a winner:

• Simple ingredient list: No complicated sauces or hard-to-find ingredients needed
• Quick preparation: From start to finish in under 30 minutes
• Versatile serving: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or summer parties
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prep the lobster mixture a few hours in advance
• Crowd-pleaser: Even picky eaters love the mild, sweet flavor
• Restaurant-quality results: Tastes like you paid $30 at a coastal restaurant

The key to making exceptional grilled salmon with dill sauce is similar to this lobster recipe—let the star ingredient shine without overwhelming it with too many competing flavors.

Ingredients

This recipe uses premium lobster meat and simple, fresh ingredients that complement rather than overpower the delicate seafood flavor. The measurements below serve 4 generous lobster rolls.

For the Lobster Filling:

• 1 pound (450g) cooked lobster meat, cut into bite-sized chunks
• 3 tablespoons (45ml) mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced (about 1/4 cup or 30g)
• 2 tablespoons (8g) fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) sea salt
• 1/8 teaspoon (0.5g) black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon (0.5g) paprika (optional)

For the Rolls:

• 4 top-split hot dog buns (New England style preferred)
• 3 tablespoons (42g) butter, melted
• Fresh lettuce leaves (optional, for serving)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Having the right tools makes this recipe even easier. Here’s what you’ll need to create perfect lobster rolls every time.

Essential equipment:

• Large mixing bowl for combining the lobster salad
• Sharp chef’s knife for chopping celery and chives
• Cutting board
• Small bowl for mixing the dressing
• Pastry brush for buttering the buns
• Non-stick skillet or griddle for toasting the buns
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Citrus juicer or reamer (optional but helpful)
• Rubber spatula for gentle mixing
• Kitchen tongs for handling the buns

Recommended Products for This Recipe

After making lobster rolls countless times, I’ve found a few products that genuinely make a difference in the final result. These aren’t just nice-to-haves—they actually improve your cooking experience and the quality of your rolls.

1. Maine Lobster Meat, Wild Caught

Fresh, high-quality lobster meat is absolutely essential for this recipe. I’ve tried various brands and frozen options, but nothing beats the sweet, tender texture of premium Maine lobster. The difference in flavor is night and day, and since lobster is the star of this dish, it’s worth investing in the best you can find.

Get it on Amazon

2. Calphalon Contemporary Nonstick Griddle

This flat griddle gives you perfect, even browning on your buns every single time. I love that I can toast all four buns at once without crowding, and the nonstick surface means you get that gorgeous golden color without any sticking or burning. It’s become my go-to for not just lobster rolls but also grilled cheese and breakfast sandwiches.

Get it on Amazon

3. OXO Good Grips Silicone Pastry Brush

A quality silicone pastry brush makes buttering those buns so much easier and cleaner. Unlike traditional bristle brushes, this one doesn’t shed, it’s heat-resistant, and it distributes butter evenly. Plus, it goes right in the dishwasher for easy cleanup. It’s one of those small tools that makes a surprisingly big difference.

Get it on Amazon

4. Microplane Premium Zester

When you need fresh lemon zest to add an extra layer of brightness to your lobster salad, this microplane zester is unbeatable. It creates the finest, most aromatic zest without any bitter white pith. I also use it for garlic, ginger, and Parmesan cheese, making it one of the most versatile tools in my kitchen.

Get it on Amazon

You might also enjoy: Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Lemon

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Lobster Rolls

Follow these detailed steps to create perfect, restaurant-quality lobster rolls. I’ve broken down each stage to make it foolproof, even if you’ve never made lobster rolls before.

1. Prepare the Lobster Meat

• Remove the lobster meat from the refrigerator and drain any excess liquid using paper towels—moisture is the enemy of a good lobster roll filling
• Place the lobster meat on a clean cutting board and inspect it carefully, removing any small bits of shell or cartilage that might have been missed
• Using your sharp chef’s knife, cut the lobster meat into bite-sized chunks, roughly 1/2 to 3/4-inch (1.2 to 2cm) pieces—you want pieces large enough to showcase the lobster’s texture but small enough to stay in the bun
• Transfer the cut lobster meat to your large mixing bowl and set aside while you prepare the other ingredients
• Keep the lobster chilled if you’re not assembling immediately to maintain freshness

2. Prep the Fresh Ingredients

• Wash the celery stalk thoroughly under cold running water and pat it completely dry with paper towels
• Trim off the leafy end and the root end of the celery, then cut it lengthwise into thin strips
• Dice the celery strips into very small pieces, about 1/8-inch (3mm) cubes—you want them fine enough that they add crunch without overwhelming the lobster
• Rinse the fresh chives under cold water, pat them dry, and use your sharp knife to chop them finely into tiny pieces
• Prepare your lemon by rolling it firmly on the counter with your palm (this releases more juice), then cut it in half and juice it, straining out any seeds
• Set aside one or two additional lemons cut into wedges for serving

3. Make the Lobster Salad Dressing

• In your small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and fresh lemon juice, whisking them together until smooth and well blended
• Add the sea salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using) to the mayo mixture and whisk again until all the seasonings are evenly distributed
• Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed—some people prefer more lemon for brightness or more salt depending on the lobster’s natural salinity
• If the dressing seems too thick, you can thin it with a tiny splash of lemon juice or even a teaspoon of water

4. Combine the Lobster Mixture

• Add the finely diced celery and chopped chives to the bowl with the lobster meat
• Pour the prepared mayo dressing over the lobster, celery, and chives
• Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the ingredients together with a light touch—you want to coat everything evenly without breaking up the lobster chunks
• Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the lobster mushy and less appealing
• Once everything is just combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld (you can prepare this up to 4 hours ahead)

5. Prepare and Toast the Buns

• Remove the top-split hot dog buns from their package and inspect them to make sure they’re fresh and not torn
• Using your pastry brush, generously brush the outside of each bun (both sides) with melted butter—don’t be shy with the butter, as this is what creates that golden, crispy exterior
• Heat your non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for about 2 minutes until it’s nice and hot but not smoking
• Place the buttered buns on the hot griddle, pressing them down gently with a spatula
• Toast for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy—watch carefully as they can go from perfect to burnt quickly
• Remove the toasted buns from the heat and place them on a serving plate

6. Assemble the Lobster Rolls

• If you’re using lettuce leaves, place one leaf inside each toasted bun to create a base—this adds freshness and prevents the bun from getting soggy
• Remove the lobster salad from the refrigerator and give it one final gentle stir
• Divide the lobster mixture evenly among the four buns, piling it generously into each one—you should use about 4 ounces (113g) of lobster salad per roll
• The mixture should be mounded high and spilling over the sides slightly for that classic lobster roll appearance
• Garnish each roll with a light sprinkle of paprika or a few extra chives if desired
• Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side so everyone can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to their liking

Another favorite: Shrimp and Avocado Salad

Tips for The Best Lobster Rolls

After making these rolls dozens of times, I’ve picked up some tricks that take them from good to absolutely incredible. These tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and achieve perfection every time.

Key tips for success:

• Use cold lobster meat: Always work with chilled lobster meat and keep the mixture cold until you’re ready to serve—room temperature lobster can become mushy and lose its appealing texture
• Don’t overdress: Start with less mayo than you think you need—you can always add more, but you can’t take it away once the lobster is over-saturated
• Toast buns properly: Medium heat is crucial for toasting—too high and the buns burn before getting crispy, too low and they become tough instead of golden and buttery
• Cut lobster consistently: Aim for uniform chunk sizes so every bite has the same texture and the mixture holds together better in the bun
• Season gradually: Lobster has its own natural sweetness and salinity, so add seasonings slowly and taste as you go to avoid overpowering the delicate flavor
• Use New England-style buns: The top-split buns aren’t just traditional—they’re designed to toast flat on the griddle and hold more filling without falling apart
• Serve immediately: Lobster rolls are best enjoyed right after assembly when the buns are still warm and crispy and the filling is cold and fresh
• Quality matters: Since there are so few ingredients, each one needs to be top-notch—don’t skimp on the lobster quality or substitute stale buns
• Keep it simple: Resist the urge to add too many extra ingredients—classic lobster rolls let the lobster be the star
• Butter generously: Don’t be stingy with the butter on the buns—it’s what gives them that addictive, golden crust

What to Serve with Lobster Rolls

Lobster rolls are substantial enough to be a meal on their own, but pairing them with the right sides elevates the entire dining experience. Here are my favorite accompaniments that complement without competing with the lobster.

Perfect pairings include:

• Coleslaw: The crisp, tangy crunch provides a perfect textural contrast to the creamy lobster
• Potato Salad: A classic picnic side that feels right at home alongside these coastal rolls
• Mexican Street Corn: Sweet, charred corn with a kick adds a fun twist to your seafood feast
• Air Fryer Classic French Fries: Crispy fries are a no-brainer match for any sandwich
• Broccoli Salad: Fresh and crunchy with a light dressing, it won’t weigh you down
• Corn on the cob: Brushed with butter and sprinkled with sea salt, this summer staple is always a hit
• Pickles: Tangy dill pickles cut through the richness of the buttered buns and mayo-dressed lobster
• Kettle chips: The salty crunch and sturdy texture make them an ideal partner for lobster rolls
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with a light vinaigrette keeps things fresh and balanced

Read Also: Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Variations of Lobster Rolls

While the classic Connecticut-style lobster roll is hard to beat, there are several delicious variations worth exploring. I’ve tried them all, and each brings something unique to the table.

Popular variations to try:

• Connecticut-style (warm butter): Skip the mayo entirely and toss the warm lobster meat in melted butter with a squeeze of lemon—this showcases the pure lobster flavor even more
• Add herbs: Include fresh tarragon, dill, or parsley in the lobster salad for an aromatic twist
• Bacon addition: Crumble crispy bacon into the lobster mixture for a smoky, savory element
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mayo mixture for heat lovers
• Avocado upgrade: Layer thin slices of ripe avocado on top of the lobster for extra creaminess
• Old Bay seasoning: Sprinkle a bit of Old Bay seasoning into the mix for that classic Maryland crab cake flavor profile
• Lettuce wrap: For a low-carb option, serve the lobster salad in crisp butter lettuce leaves instead of buns
• Brioche buns: Swap the traditional New England buns for buttery brioche rolls for an even richer experience
• Add pickles: Finely chop dill pickles and fold them into the mixture for extra tang and crunch
• Lemon zest: Add a bit of fresh lemon zest to the mayo for a more pronounced citrus note

Storage and Reheating

Proper storage ensures your lobster stays fresh and delicious, though these rolls really are best enjoyed the day they’re made. Here’s how to handle leftovers if you have them.

Storage guidelines:

• Lobster salad mixture: Store the undressed lobster salad (before adding to buns) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours—beyond that, the quality declines significantly
• Assembled rolls: Try to avoid storing assembled rolls, as the buns will become soggy—if you must, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for no more than 2 hours
• Leftover lobster meat: Raw or cooked lobster meat should be used within 1 to 2 days of purchase and kept at 40°F (4°C) or below
• Toasted buns: Store leftover toasted buns in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 1 day—they won’t be as crispy, but you can re-toast them
• Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing lobster rolls or the salad mixture, as the texture of both the lobster and the mayo suffers significantly when thawed
• Make-ahead tip: You can prep the lobster salad mixture 3 to 4 hours ahead and keep it chilled, then toast the buns and assemble just before serving
• Reheating: If you need to warm up Connecticut-style (butter-based) lobster rolls, do so gently in a covered pan over low heat, adding a touch more butter—never microwave, as it makes the lobster rubbery
• Food safety: Always discard lobster salad that has been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if it’s above 90°F/32°C outside)

For a lighter option, try: Tuna and White Bean Salad

Nutritional Facts

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (1 lobster roll), based on the recipe as written above.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 385
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 145mg
• Sodium: 720mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 24g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Vitamin A: 8% DV
• Vitamin C: 12% DV
• Calcium: 10% DV
• Iron: 6% DV

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and will vary based on specific brands and ingredient substitutions. Lobster is naturally high in protein and low in fat, making these rolls a relatively balanced indulgence.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

While lobster rolls are definitely a treat, they do offer some genuine nutritional benefits thanks to their star ingredient and fresh components.

Health highlights:

• Lobster meat: An excellent source of lean protein with about 28g per serving, lobster helps build and repair muscle tissue while keeping you satisfied for hours
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Lobster contains heart-healthy omega-3s that support cardiovascular health and may reduce inflammation throughout the body
• Vitamin B12: Essential for nerve function and red blood cell formation, lobster provides a significant amount of this important vitamin
• Zinc and selenium: These trace minerals in lobster support immune function and act as powerful antioxidants
• Low in calories: Pure lobster meat is surprisingly low in calories and fat compared to other proteins, with most of the calories in this recipe coming from the bun and mayo
• Celery: Adds fiber, vitamins K and C, and potassium while contributing almost no calories
• Lemon juice: Provides vitamin C and helps your body absorb iron from the lobster more efficiently
• Chives: Contain vitamins A and K, along with compounds that may support heart health

Read Also: Chickpea Salad

FAQs About Lobster Rolls

1. Can I use frozen lobster meat for this recipe?

Yes, frozen lobster meat works well if fresh isn’t available or is too expensive. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight and drain any excess liquid before using. Pat the meat dry with paper towels to prevent a watery filling that will make your rolls soggy.

2. What’s the difference between Connecticut-style and Maine-style lobster rolls?

Maine-style lobster rolls feature cold lobster salad mixed with mayonnaise, celery, and seasonings, served in a toasted bun. Connecticut-style lobster rolls use warm lobster meat tossed in melted butter with no mayo, creating a completely different but equally delicious experience. Both styles have passionate devotees!

3. Can I make the lobster salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the lobster salad mixture up to 4 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just wait to toast the buns and assemble the rolls until you’re ready to serve. This makes them perfect for entertaining since most of the work is done beforehand.

4. How much lobster meat do I need per person?

Plan on about 4 ounces (113g) of lobster meat per roll, which is a generous restaurant-style portion. If you’re serving these as appetizers or alongside substantial sides, you could stretch it to 3 ounces per roll. One 1.5-pound lobster typically yields about 5 to 6 ounces of meat.

5. What can I substitute for New England-style hot dog buns?

If you can’t find top-split New England buns, regular hot dog buns work fine—just toast them cut-side down in the butter. Brioche buns are a richer alternative, while potato rolls add a slight sweetness. Some people even use croissants for an indulgent twist, though purists might object!

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing like biting into a perfectly made lobster roll on a warm summer day.

The combination of sweet, tender lobster, that hint of lemon, and the buttery, crispy bun creates a moment of pure coastal bliss. This recipe brings that New England magic to your table without requiring a trip to Maine or a hefty restaurant bill.

I hope you’ll try these lobster rolls and experience that same joy I felt when I first mastered this recipe. Don’t be intimidated by working with lobster—it’s simpler than you think, and the results are absolutely worth it.

Make these for your next gathering, pack them for a beach picnic, or simply treat yourself to a special lunch. I’d love to hear how yours turn out! Drop a comment below with your experience or any creative variations you try.

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