Lobster Rolls are a New England classic, combining buttery toasted buns with fresh, juicy lobster meat. This Lobster Rolls Recipe shows you how to make the perfect lobster rolls at home, using tender lobster tossed in a light lemon mayo dressing. With just a few ingredients and a quick assembly, you’ll enjoy this simple yet indulgent seafood dish in no time.

Classic Lobster Rolls Recipe: A New England Favorite
Nothing says summertime in New England quite like a Lobster Rolls Recipe. This dish, known for its buttery, toasted buns filled with succulent, sweet lobster meat, is a simple yet indulgent meal that seafood lovers everywhere enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a beachside picnic or craving a taste of the coast at home, this easy recipe for lobster rolls delivers all the fresh, tangy, and buttery flavors you love.
What are Lobster Rolls?
A Lobster Rolls Recipe features tender lobster meat, typically from the lobster tail, claws, and knuckles, tossed in a light dressing of mayonnaise and lemon juice. The lobster salad is served in a toasted, buttery hot dog bun, usually a top-split bun to allow for easy stuffing and even toasting. Lobster rolls are a New England classic, offering a simple, fresh way to enjoy the sweet flavor of lobster without heavy sauces or complicated preparation.
How Should a Lobster Roll Taste?
A well-made Lobster Roll should have a few key characteristics: a soft, buttery toasted bun, fresh and juicy lobster meat, and a light dressing that enhances the lobster without overpowering its natural sweetness. The lemon juice adds a refreshing zing, while the mayonnaise brings a creamy texture. Every bite of this Lobster Rolls Recipe should transport you to the seaside, with its balance of richness from the butter and lightness from the citrus.
Tips for Perfect Lobster Rolls
To make this Lobster Rolls Recipe as delicious as possible, follow these simple tips:
- Use Fresh Lobster: Fresh lobster is key to an authentic lobster roll. If possible, use live lobsters and cook them yourself for the best flavor. Frozen lobster meat can be used in a pinch, but nothing beats the taste of fresh lobster.
- Top-Split Buns Are Ideal: New England-style hot dog buns are preferred for lobster rolls because they have flat sides, which makes them easy to toast. If you can’t find top-split buns, regular buns will work, but you may need to get creative with toasting.
- Don’t Overdo the Mayo: The lobster should be the star of the show. Use just enough mayonnaise to lightly coat the lobster meat—too much can make the lobster salad too heavy.
Variations of Lobster Rolls
While this classic Lobster Rolls Recipe is hard to beat, you can try different variations to suit your taste:
- Connecticut-Style Lobster Roll: Serve the lobster warm with melted butter instead of mayonnaise. This version is just as delicious and brings out the richness of the lobster meat.
- Herb-Infused Lobster Rolls: Add fresh herbs like tarragon or dill to the lobster salad for an extra burst of flavor. These herbs pair beautifully with seafood.
- Lobster Roll with Avocado: For a modern twist, add slices of ripe avocado to your lobster roll. The creaminess of the avocado complements the lobster beautifully.

Lobster Rolls Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling lobster
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet for toasting buns
- Tongs or slotted spoon
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 Ibs cooked lobster meat roughly chopped
- 4 top-split hot dog buns
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter for toasting buns
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh chives chopped
- salt and black paper to taste
- lettuce leaves optional
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Lobster: If starting with whole lobsters, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add lobsters and cook for about 8-10 minutes until bright red. Remove and let cool before extracting the meat from the tail, claws, and knuckles. Roughly chop the lobster meat.2. Prepare the Lobster Salad: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped lobster meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently to avoid breaking up the lobster meat too much.3. Toast the Buns: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Toast the hot dog buns on each side until golden brown and crispy.4. Assemble the Lobster Rolls: Line each toasted bun with a lettuce leaf (optional). Generously fill the buns with the lobster salad mixture.Serve: Serve immediately with a side of chips or fries, and enjoy your delicious Lobster Rolls!
Notes
- For an extra buttery flavor, you can drizzle some melted butter over the lobster meat before assembling the rolls.
- New England-style hot dog buns are ideal for this recipe because they’re top-split and easier to toast evenly.
- You can serve the lobster salad chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
Conclusion
Lobster Rolls are a beloved dish for good reason. They’re fresh, simple, and packed with flavor, making them the perfect meal for any seafood lover. This Lobster Rolls Recipe brings together tender lobster meat, a light lemon mayo dressing, and buttery, toasted buns to create a sandwich that’s truly unforgettable. Whether you’re enjoying them on a summer day by the beach or bringing a taste of New England to your own home, these lobster rolls are guaranteed to impress.