Best Lobster Roll Recipe (Maine & Connecticut Style) | Easy New England Seafood Sandwich
Today, I will discuss a luxurious recipe that is a very famous recipe made with lobster. Lobster roll, but don’t think of it as the same as the rest of the ordinary rolls or frankies because it is a little different, that is, it looks like a hot dog. If you’ve ever strolled along the coast of New England, you know there’s nothing more iconic than a lobster roll. That buttery, toasted bun stuffed with sweet, tender lobster meat is the ultimate summer seafood recipe that screams comfort, freshness, and enjoyment all at once.
The good news? You don’t have to travel to Maine or Connecticut to enjoy the best lobster roll recipe—you can easily make it right at home in under 30 minutes. Now, here’s the big question most people ask: Should you go for the Maine lobster roll (chilled with mayo) or the Connecticut lobster roll (served warm with melted butter)? 🤔 The truth is, both versions are delicious, and the choice really depends on your taste buds, your occasion, and even your health goals.
While it’s super easy to make at home, and that’s what we’ll be discussing today, if you want a fast and take-away option, you can Google “best lobster roll near me” and order from a nearby outlet. This isn’t just another seafood sandwich. A lobster roll is a restaurant-style delicacy that you can recreate at home for a fraction of the price, while still keeping it healthy, high-protein, and perfect for summer entertaining.
You can serve this recipe at a 4th of July cookout, a backyard BBQ, or any simple and easy seafood dinner. In this article, you’ll not only learn how to make the best New England lobster roll or Maine-style lobster roll, but you’ll also learn a lot of swap ideas that will make your meal much healthier.
Related: Delicious Lobster Recipes
🦞 Lobster Roll Recipe – Classic New England Style
This Classic Lobster Roll Recipe is the ultimate New England summer seafood sandwich made with fresh lobster meat, creamy mayo, lemon juice, and herbs stuffed into buttery toasted buns. Whether you prefer the Maine-style lobster roll with chilled mayo filling or the Connecticut-style lobster roll with warm butter, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality taste in under 30 minutes. A perfect choice for easy seafood dinners, beach picnics, and 4th of July cookouts.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs cooked lobster meat (tail, claws, and knuckle)
- 4 New England-style split-top hot dog buns (butter rolls work too)
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise (use light mayo for a healthy option)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 small celery stalk, finely diced
- 1 tbsp fresh chives or parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lettuce leaves (optional, for extra crunch)
Instructions
Prepare Lobster Filling
- Roughly chop the cooked lobster meat into bite-sized chunks.
- In a bowl, combine lobster, mayonnaise, lemon juice, celery, Dijon mustard, and herbs.
- Season with salt and pepper. Mix gently to coat without breaking lobster pieces.
Toast the Buns
- Brush the split-top buns with melted butter on both sides.
- Lightly toast in a skillet or grill pan until golden brown.
Assemble the Lobster Rolls
- Line each bun with a small lettuce leaf (optional).
- Generously fill with the lobster mixture.
- Garnish with extra herbs and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh lobster meat for authentic flavor (steamed or boiled). Frozen lobster works in a pinch.
- Warm lobster rolls (Connecticut-style): Swap mayo for melted butter and toss lobster meat in it before serving.
- Chill lobster salad for at least 30 minutes for a refreshing summer recipe.
- Pair with crispy fries, coleslaw, or potato salad for a complete seafood meal.
- Add a pinch of Old Bay seasoning for a restaurant-style lobster roll flavor.
Variations
- Maine Lobster Roll (Cold) – Lobster tossed with mayo, celery, lemon, and herbs.
- Connecticut Lobster Roll (Warm) – Lobster meat drizzled with warm butter.
- Avocado Lobster Roll – Add creamy avocado slices for a healthy twist.
- Spicy Lobster Roll – Mix in sriracha mayo or chipotle for heat.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 404Total Fat: 17gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 173mgSodium: 630mgCarbohydrates: 13gFiber: 1gSugar: 1gProtein: 47g
Related: Pickled Red Onion Recipe
What is a Lobster Roll — And why food lovers lose their minds over it
The lobster roll is a really cool sandwich that has yummy lobster meat inside a buttery, toasted bun. It’s super popular in New England, especially during the summer when people go to places like Maine and Martha’s Vineyard. People love to eat it because it tastes like the beach with flavors like bright lemon, sweet lobster, and tasty bread. Let’s learn a bit about the different ways to make lobster rolls and which one you might want to try first!
Short definition (easy share line)
Lobster roll: Cold chopped lobster mixed lightly with mayo and lemon (Maine style) or warm lobster dressed in melted butter (Connecticut style), served in a grilled split-top bun.
A brief history — how the lobster roll was born
- Late 1800s – Early 1900s: Lobster moves from “poor person’s food” to regional delicacy. As rail and shipping improved, lobster became more available to inland markets.
- 1920s – 1950s: Seafood shacks and summer resorts in New England begin serving lobster in handheld forms. Vendors experimented with everything from lobster salad to hot meat in rolls.
- 1950s – 1970s: The contemporary lobster roll — lobster meat served in a buttered, split-top bun — grows in popularity across Maine and coastal Massachusetts.
- 1990s – Today: The lobster roll becomes a nationwide and international hit: food writers, restaurant chefs, and social media propel creative variations (avocado, spicy, lobster tacos) while demand for authentic “Maine lobster roll” experiences surges.
Why the lobster roll matters
It’s a perfect food match: sweet, tender shellfish balanced by fat (mayo or butter) and the crunch/comfort of toasted bread. For home cooks, it’s a quick luxury — great for hosting, impressing guests, or a simple weeknight upgrade.
Related: Unique Poke Bowl Ideas
🦞 Why This Lobster Roll Recipe Works
If you’ve ever eaten a lobster roll at a little seaside place in New England, you know how awesome it is! It’s got a soft, buttery bun, yummy chunks of sweet lobster, and a little bit of mayo or warm butter. It feels like fancy food but also super comforting at the same time!
This lobster roll recipe is really easy and tasty. It’s just like the ones you can find in Maine, where they use mayo and celery, or in Connecticut, where they serve it warm with butter. And guess what? You can make it yourself in only 25 minutes! That’s way better than spending $25 to $40 at a restaurant!
✨ Benefits of This Lobster Roll Recipe
- ✔️ Quick & easy – ready in under 30 minutes.
- ✔️ Works for both Maine and Connecticut styles.
- ✔️ Restaurant-quality taste at home for a fraction of the price.
- ✔️ Perfect for summer seafood recipes, BBQs, or beach picnics.
- ✔️ High in protein, low in carbs – a healthy seafood dinner option.
Guide
Not sure which style to choose? Here’s the quick breakdown:
- Maine Lobster Roll: Chilled, mayo-based, creamy, refreshing.
- Connecticut Lobster Roll: Warm lobster, butter-drizzled, rich & savory.
Both are iconic New England lobster rolls, so you can’t go wrong—it’s all about your preference!
👉 According to the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative, lobster rolls are one of the most beloved American seafood sandwiches, especially during summer. That makes this recipe not only a family favorite but also an excellent choice if you’re planning to impress guests with a luxury seafood dish.
Related: Creamy Corn Chowder Recipe
Types of Lobster Rolls: Maine vs Connecticut
So, there are two types of lobster rolls, and they’re completely different! First, you have the Maine lobster roll. It’s super bright and cold, with creamy and herby flavors that are just awesome for hot summer days. Then, there’s the Connecticut lobster roll. This one is warm and covered in butter – so rich and tasty, it’s like you’re eating lobster right off the dock! Let’s break it down so you can pick which one to make right now!
Maine Lobster Roll (Cold, Mayo-Based)
What it is: Chunks of fresh lobster meat tossed in a light, lemony mayo dressing (sometimes Greek yogurt), with celery and herbs.
Flavor profile: Bright, slightly tangy, clean lobster flavor — the meat is the star.
Why people love it: Refreshing, easy to make, perfect for picnics and beach days. Often called the classic “Maine lobster roll recipe.”
Connecticut Lobster Roll (Warm, Butter-Soaked)
What it is: Lobster meat gently heated and tossed with melted butter — served warm in a toasted split-top bun.
Flavor profile: Rich, savory, buttery — awesome and restaurant-style.
People really like it because: It’s super simple and tastes really good! It makes the lobster’s sweetness even better. A lot of people say it’s one of the best lobster rolls you can get, just like you’d find in a nice restaurant!
| Feature | Maine (Cold) | Connecticut (Warm) |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Mayonnaise, lemon, celery, herbs | Melted butter (clarified or whole) |
| Serving temp | Chilled | Warm |
| Best for | Picnics, summer lunches, light seafood meals | Restaurant-style dinners, cold nights, special occasions |
| Texture focus | Chunky, tender, refreshing | Buttery, plush, immediately savory |
| Calories (estimate) | ~350–400 (depends on mayo) | ~400–500 (butter heavy) |
Which should you choose?
Not sure? Here are two options:
- Want something light & refreshing for a hot day? → Go Maine (cold mayo lobster roll).
- Craving rich, buttery comfort or a restaurant feel? → Go Connecticut (warm lobster with butter).
Quick Variations to Try
- Spicy Maine: Add sriracha or chipotle mayo to the cold version.
- Herbed Connecticut: Toss warm lobster in browned butter with thyme and lemon zest.
- Keto option: Replace the bun with crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves.
Related: Kolkata-style Chicken Kathi Roll Recipe
Ingredient Spotlight — What makes the Best Lobster Roll
Let’s talk about what goes into making a great lobster roll! We’ll discuss the key ingredients that make a great recipe great. We’ll look at the key ingredients, why they’re important (like the difference between cold Maine-style and warm Connecticut-style), some easy swaps you can make, and quick choices for better taste, money savings, and staying healthy.
Lobster Meat
Fresh, sweet, and slightly salty — lobster meat (tail, claws, knuckles) is the most important ingredient for your Maine lobster roll or Connecticut lobster roll. Choose fresh-caught lobster if possible. If you’re on a tight budget, high-quality, previously frozen lobster is fine — just thaw it completely and pat it dry.
Pro Tip: Want a bright, chilled sandwich? Use cold lobster tossed in mayo (Maine-style).
Crave buttery richness? Warm the meat briefly in melted butter (Connecticut-style).
Bread — split-top hot dog buns
The classic New England split-top bun is made to hold the filling and toast evenly. Butter the outside and pan-toast for flavor and crunch. Alternatively, consider a brioche roll for a richer meal, or a lettuce wrap for a low-carb/keto lobster roll.
Dressing — mayo (Maine) or melted butter (Connecticut)
Mayo makes a super creamy lobster roll like they have in Maine. If you want a warm lobster roll, you can use melted unsalted butter, just like they do in Connecticut. If you want a healthier option, you can mix light mayo, Greek yogurt, or even half mayo and half yogurt!
Herbs & add-ins — small things, big payoff
To make it yummy, you can use crunchy celery, and for a pop of color, add chives or parsley. A little squeeze of lemon juice makes everything taste better, and just a tiny bit of Old Bay or smoked paprika can make it taste like a fancy restaurant dish! But be careful not to add too much strong stuff because lobster is really soft and gentle in flavor.
Substitutions, buying tips & storage
- Frozen vs fresh: Frozen lobster (vacuum-sealed) is often flash-frozen at peak quality — a smart wallet-friendly choice. Thaw slowly in the fridge.
- Storage: Keep cooked lobster meat in an airtight container up to 2 days in the fridge. For best texture, assemble just before serving.
- Healthy swaps: Greek yogurt or avocado instead of full-fat mayo for lower-calorie versions without losing creaminess.
Related: Easy 300 Calorie Lunch Ideas
Step-by-Step Guide — How to Make the Best Lobster Roll (Maine & Connecticut)
Follow these clear, friendly steps to make a restaurant-quality lobster roll recipe at home. Whether you want a chilled Maine lobster roll with mayo or a warm Connecticut lobster roll with butter, this guide walks you through it — fast, foolproof, and delicious.
-
1
Prepare & chill the lobster meat
Use fresh lobster meat (preferred) or thawed frozen lobster. Remove shells and roughly chop claws, knuckles, and tail into bite-size pieces. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture — this keeps your lobster roll from becoming soggy.
Pro tip: if you’re short on time, buy pre-picked lobster meat from a trusted seafood counter.
Chopped fresh lobster meat — ideal for lobster roll filling. -
2
Make the lobster dressing (Maine-style)
In a bowl, gently fold together 3 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 finely diced celery stalk, and 1 tbsp chopped chives or parsley. Add lobster and toss lightly — you want big, intact chunks, not a paste. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of high-quality Old Bay if you like.
This is the Maine lobster roll dressing: cool, bright, and perfect for summer seafood menus.
Light mayo dressing keeps the lobster meat center-stage. -
3
Warm-butter option (Connecticut-style)
If you prefer a warm, indulgent roll — skip mayo. Melt 2–3 tbsp unsalted butter and briefly toss the lobster meat until just warmed through. Season with a squeeze of lemon and flaky salt. This is the classic Connecticut lobster roll, famous for its buttery, restaurant-style finish.
Warm lobster tossed in butter — Connecticut-style. -
4
Toast the split-top buns
Heat a skillet over medium. Brush both cut sides of split-top New England buns with butter and toast until golden brown (about 1–2 minutes each side). The toasty, buttery bun is a game-changer — it adds crunch and soaks up just enough flavor without falling apart.
Toasted split-top buns: essential for the best lobster roll. -
5
Assemble the lobster roll
Line each warm bun with a small piece of crisp lettuce (optional), then gently mound the lobster mixture into the bun. Don’t pack it too tight — keep the chunks airy. Finish with a little extra herb, a squeeze of lemon, and flaky sea salt. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Assemble gently — big lobster chunks look and taste better. -
6
Serve and pair like a pro
Serve your lobster roll with kettle chips, crispy fries, coleslaw, or an easy summer corn salad. For drinks, go with chilled white wine, a crisp lager, or sparkling lemonade.
Pair with fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- If lobster is watery → pat dry thoroughly and use less mayo.
- If buns go soggy → toast more, serve immediately, or serve topping on the side.
- Want lower calories → swap mayo for plain Greek yogurt (same creamy texture, less fat).
Lobster Roll Variations — Find Your Perfect Roll
Do you love lobster rolls? That’s awesome! I know some of the best ones! There are Maine lobster rolls, Connecticut lobster rolls, and even some really cool twisty ones like keto, spicy, and avocado! Yum!
🥗 Maine Lobster Roll — Classic Cold & Creamy
Maine Lobster Roll is a cold, mayo-forward classic – lobster meat is lightly dressed with mayo, lemon, celery, and chives. It’s the easiest way to showcase the sweet lobster flavor.
🧈 Connecticut Lobster Roll — Warm, Buttery & Decadent
Love warm butter? This Connecticut lobster roll tosses warm lobster meat in melted butter — no mayo — giving a restaurant-style, luxurious bite.
🥑 Avocado Lobster Roll — Creamy & Healthy Twist
Mash or slice avocado into your lobster salad for a silky, nutrient-rich version. This is a very healthy lobster roll.
🌶️ Spicy Lobster Roll — Sriracha & Chipotle Kicks
For those who like to eat spicy food like Bengalis, add a little heat with sriracha-mayo or chipotle aioli for a spicy lobster roll. This enhances the flavor of this roll a lot.
🥬 Keto Lobster Roll — Low-Carb Lettuce Wrap
Swap the bun for crisp butter lettuce or collard leaves to make a keto lobster roll.
🍋 Gourmet / Loaded Lobster Roll — Truffle, Herbs & Citrus
Upgrade your lobster roll to restaurant-level by adding lemon zest, microherbs, or a drizzle of truffle oil.
How to Serve Your Lobster Roll — Sides, Drinks & Hosting Tips
Do you want your lobster roll to taste amazing, just like in a restaurant, but at home? Here are some easy and fun ideas to make it special! You can add classic side dishes, fancy drinks, and even quick options for different diets. Also, I’ll share some tips for hosting a great get-together!
Perfect Sides (Classic & Crowd-Pleasers)
The classic combo: crispy shoestring fries or kettle chips + a tangy creamy coleslaw. For a lighter plate, serve with grilled corn on the cob or a fresh lemon-herb potato salad.
Drink Pairings — Wines, Cocktails & Non-Alcoholic
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a zesty Pinot Grigio is classic. For cocktails, try a vodka soda with lemon or a bright gin & tonic with cucumber. Non-alcoholic: sparkling lemonade or iced tea with mint keeps things bright.
Plating + Garnish Tips
Keep it simple: lightly buttered, toasted split-top bun, lobster piled high, a lemon wedge, and chopped chives or parsley. Add flaky sea salt and a small ramekin of drawn butter for the Connecticut-style shot.
Dietary Swaps & Party-Friendly Options
Keto or low-carb? Serve the lobster salad in crisp romaine leaves or toasted keto buns. Want lighter calories? Swap mayo for plain Greek yogurt with lemon. For gluten-free guests, pick GF buns or lettuce cups.
FAQs — Lobster Roll Recipe (Maine & Connecticut Style)
What’s the difference between a Maine lobster roll and a Connecticut lobster roll?
A Maine lobster roll is served cold with a light mayo dressing, celery, lemon, and herbs—classic New England lobster roll style. A Connecticut lobster roll is served warm, tossed in melted butter (often clarified butter), no mayo. If you love creamy, pick Maine. If you crave rich, buttery seafood, pick Connecticut.
What’s the best bread or bun for an authentic lobster roll recipe?
Go for New England–style split-top hot dog buns—flat sides make perfect contact for butter-toasting in a skillet. Brioche split-tops work for a richer, restaurant-style lobster roll. Avoid overly sweet buns; let the lobster shine.
Can I use frozen lobster meat? Will it taste like fresh?
Yes—thaw overnight and blot dry. Freshly cooked lobster delivers the cleanest, sweetest flavor, but high-quality frozen claw/knuckle meat is a solid value for an easy seafood dinner at home.
How many calories are in a lobster roll? Is it a healthy lobster roll?
Most rolls land around 350–450 calories depending on mayo/butter. For a lighter, healthy lobster roll: use light mayo or Greek yogurt, add celery & herbs, and toast buns with a thin butter layer or olive oil spray.
What’s the best mayo vs butter ratio for the best lobster roll?
For Maine-style: ~1 tablespoon mayo per 4–5 oz lobster meat (just to coat). For Connecticut-style: 1–2 tablespoons melted butter per roll, plus a lemon squeeze and pinch of salt.
Which seasonings make a restaurant-style lobster roll at home?
Keep it minimal so the lobster leads: lemon juice/zest, fine sea salt, cracked pepper, chives/parsley. Optional: a whisper of Old Bay or Dijon for complexity.
Can I make lobster rolls ahead of time? What about meal prep?
Yes—mix the lobster filling up to 24 hours ahead and chill. Toast buns and assemble right before serving for peak texture. For events, set up a lobster roll bar with both Maine & Connecticut styles.
How do I reheat lobster for a warm Connecticut-style roll without making it tough?
Gently warm chopped lobster in a small skillet with melted butter over low heat for 30–60 seconds—just until heated through. Overheating makes it rubbery.
What are the best sides and drinks to serve with a lobster roll?
Classics: kettle chips, coleslaw, potato salad, grilled corn. Drinks: crisp white wine, citrusy beer, or sparkling lemonade. Great for summer seafood recipe menus and beach picnics.
Can I make a keto lobster roll or gluten-free lobster roll?
For keto: use butter lettuce cups or low-carb buns; choose butter-based (Connecticut-style). For gluten-free: pick certified GF split-top buns or lettuce wraps. Lobster itself is naturally high-protein, low-carb.
What’s the typical cost of making a lobster roll at home vs ordering out?
Restaurants often price premium best lobster roll plates high. At home, using quality frozen claw/knuckle meat cuts costs while keeping flavor—ideal for families and budget-smart entertaining.
Is imitation crab (surimi) okay as a substitute?
It works for a seafood sandwich, but it won’t taste like a true lobster roll recipe. If substituting, call it a “seafood roll.” For authentic flavor, stick with real lobster.
How should I store leftover lobster salad and how long does it last?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep buns separate and toast fresh before serving. Avoid freezing mayo-based salad (texture changes).
What are the must-have tools to make a pro-level, restaurant-style lobster roll?
A cast-iron or nonstick skillet for butter-toasted buns, sharp knife for chunky lobster, citrus juicer for fresh lemon, and a silicone spatula to gently fold mayo without breaking the meat.
If you like this article about the Lobster Roll Recipe, please share it with your friends on Facebook and Pinterest. Also, subscribe to my blog to get all the latest content first on your mobile.
