Variation
Connecticut Style: Serve warm with extra drawn butter and no herbs.
Dinner · Seafood · Sandwiches · American
Lobster Rolls With Lemon Chive Butter
These lobster rolls feature tender claw and knuckle meat tossed in a bright lemon chive butter and tucked into toasted brioche buns.
Prep
20 min
Cook
10 min
Difficulty
Medium
Serves
4
Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Prep the Seafood
- 1
Clean Meat
Ensure the lobster meat is free of any shell fragments and pat it dry with paper towels to prevent the butter from becoming watery.
Tip: Keep the chunks large for a more luxurious texture.
Infuse Butter
- 1
Melt and Flavor
Melt the butter in a large skillet over low heat. Once foamy, stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Tip: Do not let the butter brown, as it will overpower the delicate lobster.
How to Make Lobster Rolls With Lemon Chive Butter
Total time: 30 min · Yields 4 servings
- 1
Toast the Buns
Spread softened butter on the outer flat sides of the brioche buns. Place them in a skillet over medium heat and toast until golden brown and crisp, about 2 minutes per side.
- 2
Warm the Lobster
Add the prepared lobster meat to the skillet with the melted lemon butter. Toss gently with a spatula for 2 to 3 minutes just until the meat is heated through and well coated.
- 3
Add Herbs
Remove the skillet from the heat. Fold in the fresh chives, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- 4
Assemble
Open the warm buns slightly and divide the lobster mixture evenly among them. Drizzle any remaining butter from the pan over the top of each roll.
Chef's Tips
- If using frozen lobster, thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight and drain thoroughly.
- Use split-top buns to allow for more filling and a stable base.
- Do not overcook the lobster in the pan, it only needs to be warmed through.
What to Serve with Lobster Rolls With Lemon Chive Butter
The garlic butter sauce is the star — pick sides that soak it up or balance the richness.
- Serve alongside kettle-cooked potato chips.
- Pair with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc.
- Include a side of creamy coleslaw.
Recipe Variations
Once you've mastered the base recipe, try these popular twists.
Variation
Maine Style: Swap the butter for 1/4 cup high-quality mayonnaise and serve chilled.
Variation
Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the butter.
Storage & Reheating
Lobster meat is best enjoyed immediately. If you have leftovers, store the meat in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but realize the texture may change when reheated.
Further reading
Frequently asked questions
Should lobster rolls be served hot or cold?
It depends on the style. A Maine-style roll is served cold with mayo, while a Connecticut-style roll is served warm with butter.
Can I use frozen lobster meat for lobster rolls?
Yes, high-quality frozen knuckle and claw meat works well. Just ensure it is fully thawed and very dry before adding to the butter.
What is the best bread for lobster rolls?
Split-top brioche or New England style hot dog buns are the standard, as they provide a soft texture and flat sides for toasting.
How much lobster meat do I need per person?
Standard servings are typically 100 to 150 grams of meat per roll.
Is a lobster roll healthy?
Lobster itself is a lean protein, but these rolls are rich due to the butter and brioche. You can reduce butter for a lighter version.
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