Lobster Roll: the mouthwatering recipe for a classic New England seafood sandwich

This year, take your summer picnics and backyard barbecues to the next level by serving lobster rolls. This easy-to-make sandwich hails from New England and is absolutely perfect for summer.

Made with tender chunks of lobster tossed with creamy mayo, tangy lemon juice, and crunchy celery stuffed into buttery toasted buns, lobster rolls are always a popular recipe to serve. Lobster is in season from June to September, so why not make the most of it and make some phenomenal lobster rolls? They're sure to be a huge hit!

What is the Best Lobster for Making Lobster Rolls?

Fresh Maine lobster is the go-to option for lobster rolls. Either claw meat or tail meat works. You can use frozen lobster, but if it's available, fresh lobster meat takes so much better.

Try to divvy the lobster filling equally between each roll (you don't want to start any fights!). About three to four ounces of lobster meat per roll should do it.

What is the Best Bread for a Lobster Roll?

Any soft roll works well for lobster rolls. Split-top hot dog buns (the kind you find in New England) are the roll of choice, but any soft, fluffy roll will do. Regular hot dog buns are a good second option.

Lobster Roll Ingredients

Making the best lobster rolls is a breeze. As we touched on a moment ago, you'll need some soft split-top hot dog buns or any other soft roll, plus some butter for toasting the bread.

For the sandwich filling, you'll need cooked lobster – again, fresh tastes better than frozen.

You'll mix your cooked lobster with mayonnaise, lemon juice, celery, and chives, then season it with salt and pepper. Use fresh lemon juice. It adds a bright flavor that cuts through the creaminess of the mayo and complements the lobster's delicate flavor.

How to Cook a Lobster

If you're using lobster tails, you can broil, steam, or bake them. About 10 minutes should do – the meat should turn opaque when it's done cooking.

If you have a whole lobster, pour 3 inches of water into a pot. Salt it well. Bring the water to a boil, then place the lobsters in the pot. Pop the lid on and cook for about 8 minutes or so. Take the lobsters out of the water, then leave them to cool. Use the tail and claw meat for your lobster rolls. Take it out of the shell, then chop it into big chunks.

How to Make a Lobster Roll

Once you've cooked the lobster, let it cool. Gently stir the lobster meat, lemon juice, mayo, celery, chives, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Smear the outside of the buns with butter, then toast them in a skillet over medium heat until they turn a rich golden brown.

Place equal amounts of the lobster mixture into each bun. Garnish with extra chives, and serve with chips, fries, and a salad.

Tips for the Best New England Lobster Roll

You can make the lobster salad filling can be prepared up to eight hours ahead of time.

Maine lobster is the traditional option, but any lobster will do.

Fresh lobster offers the best flavor, but you can use frozen lobster. If using frozen lobster, let it thaw before cooking it.

Lobster Roll Variations

There are two styles of lobster roll: Maine lobster roll and Connecticut lobster roll. The latter is served hot with butter while Maine lobster rolls are made by preparing a cold lobster salad with mayonnaise and celery, and served cold. Both are delicious!

There are also the Boston and Southampton versions. Boston lobster rolls are served on a grilled hot dog bun and use butter instead of mayo. Southampton or New York lobster rolls are typically served on brioche and made with mayo and fresh herbs.

You can top your lobster rolls with shredded lettuce or chopped green onions for extra crunch.

Mix in additional ingredients to the filling like celery seed, Old Bay, or your favorite seasoning mixes.

You can make your lobster roll ultra-gourmet by adding a sprinkling of crumbled crispy bacon, or avocado slices.

Use lime juice instead of lemon for a tasty twist.

What to Serve With Lobster Roll

Potato chips and French fries are two favorite sides to enjoy with a lobster roll. Coleslaw, leafy green salads, Caprese salad, and steamed or roasted veggies are delicious, healthy choices to round out the meal.

How to Store Lobster Rolls

Lobster rolls are best enjoyed immediately after being assembled. The lobster salad filling can be stored for up to 2 days and should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge.

For best results, store the buns and filling separately; the buns will become soggy if the lobster salad is left inside them.

More Seafood Recipes You'll Like

• Crab cakes
• Lobster bisque
• Baked prawns

Instructions

In a large bowl, mix lobster meat, mayonnaise, lemon juice, celery, chives, salt, and pepper to combine.

Smear the outside of the hot dog buns with butter.

Toast in a skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden brown.

Scoop the lobster mixture into each bun.

Garnish with extra chives, and serve.

Notes

Soften the butter to room temperature.