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Buttery New England Lobster Roll Recipe
Fresh lobster meets warm buttery buns in this New England classic—find out how to make the perfect roll that’s both simple and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love these Buttery New England Lobster Rolls
Although lobster rolls might seem fancy, they’re really just a buttery, cozy hug in sandwich form that anyone can enjoy without breaking a sweat.
Seriously, who doesn’t love the combo of tender, sweet lobster paired with soft, toasted buns slathered in melted butter? It’s comfort food elevated — simple ingredients coming together to create something unexpectedly luxurious.
The warmth of the buttery bread contrasts perfectly with the light, fresh lobster filling, making every bite feel like a mini celebration. Plus, it’s the kind of dish that’s quick to throw together but still impresses, whether you’re feeding friends or craving a treat.
And honestly, it’s hard to resist that rich, buttery aroma wafting through the kitchen. Trust me, these rolls bring a smile every time.
What Ingredients are in Buttery New England Lobster Rolls?
Alright, let’s break down the essentials for making those buttery New England lobster rolls that feel like a warm hug on a bun.
The magic here comes from fresh, tender lobster meat mingling with just the right touch of celery for crunch and mayo for creaminess. Then, there’s the all-important lettuce leaf that adds a crisp bed for the lobster salad, and finally, the soft, slightly toasted hot dog buns that soak up all the buttery goodness.
Simple ingredients, but when they come together, it’s pure sandwich bliss.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cooked lobsters (meat removed and chopped into bite-size chunks)
- 2 stalks celery (chopped into small, bite-size pieces)
- 4 lettuce leaves
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (add a little at a time to avoid sogginess)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 hot dog buns
A quick heads-up about the ingredients: it’s tempting to go wild with the mayo, but remember, less is more here. You want the lobster’s natural sweetness to shine, not drown in a sea of mayo.
Also, fresh celery is key — it’s that crisp contrast that keeps the roll from feeling mushy. As for the buns, New England-style means they’re typically split on the top rather than the side, making them perfect for piling high with lobster.
Toast them lightly with butter for that melt-in-your-mouth texture that will have you wondering why you ever settled for anything less.
How to Make these Buttery New England Lobster Rolls

Making these buttery New England lobster rolls is simpler than you might think, and the result? Pure, buttery heaven in a bun.
Start by taking 4 cooked lobsters and carefully removing the meat—yes, it’s a bit of a workout, but totally worth it. Chop that tender lobster meat into bite-sized chunks, perfect for snacking or piling high in your roll.
Next, grab 2 stalks of celery, chop them into small pieces, and toss them right in with the lobster. That celery adds just the right crunch without stealing the spotlight.
Now for the magic touch: 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise. But here’s a pro tip—add it slowly, a little at a time. You’re aiming for a lobster salad that’s moist and creamy, not soggy or drowning in mayo.
Salt and pepper come next, sprinkled to taste—because everything’s better with a little seasoning, right? Mix it all together gently, like you’re coaxing the flavors to mingle without turning the lobster into mush.
Finally, take 4 hot dog buns and place a crisp lettuce leaf inside each one. Then, pile on that luscious lobster salad, mounding it high because this is no time to be shy.
The lettuce adds a fresh crunch and keeps the bun from getting soggy—trust me, it’s a game changer.
For the perfect texture and even cooking, consider using premium fish cookware to prepare your lobster meat before assembling the rolls.
And that’s it—simple, satisfying, and seriously delicious. Ready to jump in?
Buttery New England Lobster Rolls Substitutions and Variations
Now that you’ve got the classic buttery New England lobster roll down, let’s shake things up a bit.
Want to swap mayo for something lighter? Greek yogurt works wonders—same creaminess, fewer calories. Or, skip mayo altogether and toss lobster with a splash of lemon juice and a pinch of Old Bay for a tangy kick.
Not a celery fan? Crunch comes from diced cucumber or even green apple for a surprising sweet twist.
Bread-wise, if hot dog buns aren’t your thing, sturdy brioche or split-top sandwich rolls hold up just fine and add a buttery richness.
Feeling adventurous? Mix in a bit of fresh tarragon or chives to brighten flavors.
Substitutions aren’t just fixes—they’re chances to make this lobster roll truly your own.
What to Serve with Buttery New England Lobster Rolls
When you’re serving buttery New England lobster rolls, picking the right sides can turn a simple meal into a full-on feast that feels just right.
Think crispy fries or kettle chips—something salty and crunchy to balance the tender lobster. A light, tangy coleslaw works wonders, its crispness cutting through all that buttery goodness.
If you want to get fancy, a side of corn on the cob, grilled just right, adds sweetness and a bit of smoky charm. Don’t forget a wedge of lemon for squeezing; it brightens every bite.
And hey, a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette keeps things fresh and not too heavy.
Honestly, these combos make the lobster roll shine even brighter—because, yes, it’s all about that perfect bite.
Final Thoughts
Even though lobster rolls might sound fancy, they’re surprisingly simple to pull off, and that’s part of the charm. You just need fresh lobster, a bit of celery for crunch, and just enough mayo to bind it without drowning the flavor.
Don’t overdo it—less is definitely more here. Toss in salt and pepper to taste, then pile that glorious mixture into buttery toasted buns lined with lettuce. It’s a perfect balance of buttery, sweet, and savory.
Sure, it looks impressive, but it’s really about letting the lobster shine. So, why wait? Get cracking on this easy, satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Just remember, patience with the mayo and a gentle hand make all the difference. Ready to impress without the stress?






