A classic New England favorite, lobster rolls feature tender, buttery lobster meat served in a toasted split-top bun with a light, creamy dressing. This simple yet elegant sandwich is perfect for summer gatherings, seafood lovers, or anyone craving a taste of the coast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Flavorful: Sweet, tender lobster meat combined with lemon, chives, and butter.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect meal for busy days.
- Perfect for Summer: A refreshing, light dish that pairs well with chips, fries, or coleslaw.
- Authentic New England Style: Uses split-top buns and a classic, lightly dressed filling.
- Customizable: Can be made warm with butter or chilled with a creamy mayo-based dressing.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped (claw and tail meat preferred)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional)
- 4 split-top hot dog buns
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for toasting buns)
- Lettuce leaves (optional)
Directions
- In a bowl, mix the lobster meat with mayonnaise, lemon juice, melted butter, chives, salt, black pepper, and Old Bay seasoning (if using). Chill for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Toast the buns on both sides until golden brown.
- Optionally, place a lettuce leaf inside each bun for added texture.
- Spoon the chilled lobster mixture into the toasted buns.
- Serve immediately with a side of chips, coleslaw, or fries.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 380 kcal per serving
Variations
- Warm Butter Lobster Roll: Skip the mayonnaise and toss the lobster meat in melted butter before serving.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the mixture.
- Extra Creamy: Increase the mayonnaise slightly for a richer texture.
- Grilled Lobster Roll: Grill the buttered buns for a smoky flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the lobster mixture in lettuce wraps instead of a bun.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover lobster mixture in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the lobster may change.
- Reheating: If making a warm lobster roll, gently heat the lobster meat in butter over low heat before serving.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between a Maine and a Connecticut lobster roll?
Maine lobster rolls use a chilled, mayo-based filling, while Connecticut lobster rolls are served warm with butter.
2. Can I use frozen lobster meat?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and drain excess moisture before using.
3. What kind of buns should I use?
Split-top hot dog buns are traditional because they allow for even toasting on both sides.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! The lobster mixture can be prepared a few hours in advance and kept in the refrigerator. Assemble just before serving.
5. How do I cook lobster for this recipe?
Boil or steam whole lobsters, then remove the meat from the claws, tails, and knuckles.
6. What sides pair well with lobster rolls?
Chips, fries, coleslaw, pickles, or a simple green salad are great options.
7. Can I substitute another seafood?
Yes, crab meat or shrimp can be used as an alternative.
8. Should I use fresh or canned lobster?
Fresh lobster is best, but high-quality canned lobster can work in a pinch.
9. How can I add more flavor?
Try a dash of Dijon mustard, celery salt, or a squeeze of extra lemon juice.
10. Are lobster rolls healthy?
They are relatively healthy, as lobster is low in fat and high in protein, but the butter and mayo add richness.
Conclusion
Lobster rolls are a simple yet indulgent dish that brings the taste of New England straight to your table. Whether you prefer the classic chilled version or the buttery Connecticut style, this recipe delivers a fresh, flavorful seafood experience. Try it today and enjoy a bite of coastal comfort!
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Lobster Rolls
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A classic New England favorite featuring tender, buttery lobster meat served in a toasted split-top bun with a light, creamy dressing.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped (claw and tail meat preferred)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional)
- 4 split-top hot dog buns
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for toasting buns)
- Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix lobster meat with mayonnaise, lemon juice, melted butter, chives, salt, black pepper, and Old Bay seasoning (if using). Chill for 10-15 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt butter. Toast the buns on both sides until golden brown.
- Optionally, place a lettuce leaf inside each bun.
- Spoon the chilled lobster mixture into the toasted buns.
- Serve immediately with a side of chips, coleslaw, or fries.
Notes
- Prefer a Connecticut-style lobster roll? Skip the mayo and toss the lobster in warm melted butter instead.
- For extra flavor, lightly brush the buns with garlic butter before toasting.
- Use fresh lobster for the best taste, but high-quality frozen lobster meat works too!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Sandwich
- Method: No-Cook (except toasting)
- Cuisine: New England, American
