Delicious Maine-Style Lobster Rolls

Indulge in the taste of summer with my favorite lobster roll recipe, which I discovered during my unforgettable travels in Maine! Picture a warm, buttery New England-style split-top bun enveloping tender lobster meat that’s beautifully mingled with refreshing lemon zest, fragrant tarragon, vibrant chives, crunchy celery, and creamy mayo. This Maine-style lobster roll is light, zesty, and simply the best!

Lobster Rolls on an oval platter with herbs and lemon wedges.

Why This is the Best Lobster Roll Recipe!

During my adventures across Maine, I made it my mission to try every lobster roll I could find. The delicious meals certainly added a few extra pounds, but the experience was completely worth it!

My absolute favorite lobster roll was a symphony of flavors—light and vibrant, with a burst of lemony goodness, accented by fresh tarragon, chives, and tangy capers. The buttery, toasted split-top bun was the perfect cradle for the delectable filling, making it an unforgettable culinary experience. I just had to share this recipe with you!

Ordering from Lobster Everywhere made the process so easy. Their lobster roll kit featured wild-caught, Maine lobster meat, cooked and frozen, along with New England-style buns—something that can be tricky to find here in the Northwest. Trust me, this meal is a breeze to prepare!

Lobster Roll Recipe Ingredients

Ingredients for lobster rolls arranged neatly.

Lobster Meat: Use cooked lobster such as knuckle, claw, or tail meat. You can steam fresh Maine lobsters or buy already cooked lobster meat. Frozen and peeled langostino lobster tails are also a budget-friendly alternative, but ensure to drain thoroughly after thawing.
Celery: Adds a refreshing crunch.
Chives and Fresh Tarragon: For that lovely herby flavor; feel free to substitute scallions for the chives.
Capers: These little gems contribute a tangy, briny taste.
Lemon: Use both zest and fresh juice for a lively kick.
Mayo: Feel free to add more for creaminess!
Hot Sauce: Optional for a touch of heat.
Unsalted Butter: Essential for warming the lobster and toasting the buns.
New-England Style Hot Dog Buns: Preferably split-top. If unavailable, other types like regular hot dog buns, brioche, or even croissants will work.

How to Make the Best Lobster Rolls

1. Strain the Lobster

Place the lobster meat in a strainer to remove any excess water.

2. Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine chopped celery, fresh herbs, capers, lemon zest and juice, mayo, kosher salt, pepper, and a hint of hot sauce if you like a kick. Mix everything together until combined.

3. Prep the Lobster

Chop or tear the lobster meat into bite-sized pieces, checking for any shells or cartilage. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat, then gently warm the lobster until just heated through. You can add more butter if desired.

4. Combine Lobster with Mayo Mixture

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the warmed lobster to the mayo mixture and gently toss to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Toast the Buns

Remove any excess butter from the skillet, then wipe it out and heat more butter. Toast both sides of the split-top buns until they are golden and warm.

6. Serve

Spoon the luscious lobster filling into the toasted buns and serve immediately. Consider adding extra mayo or crunchy lettuce leaves for added flavor and texture!

Lobster mixture being spooned into toasted buns.

Lobster Roll Variations

Make it Extra Creamy: Add more mayo or butter for that extra richness.
Add a Little Heat: A dash of hot sauce or cayenne can elevate the flavors.

Chef’s Tips

Drain the Lobster Well: Remove as much moisture as possible as it can dilute the mayo mixture; let it sit in a strainer and pat dry.
Don’t Over-Mix: Gently fold the lobster to keep it tender and maintain that desired chunkiness.
Warm, Don’t Cook: Gently warm the lobster to avoid a rubbery texture.
Reduce Saturated Fat: Substitute olive oil for butter, although butter truly delivers the best flavor!