Decadent Lobster Rolls with Lemon-Butter Sauce

 A lobster roll is a classic for a reason. But a truly decadent lobster roll is a luxurious culinary experience—a beautiful tribute to the simple elegance of fresh lobster. While the "Maine style" (with mayonnaise) has its fans, this recipe celebrates the "Connecticut style," where warm, succulent lobster meat is bathed in a luscious lemon-butter sauce and served on a toasted, buttery bun.

This is a dish that feels like a special occasion, but is surprisingly simple to create. The key is to use high-quality ingredients and a gentle hand. The sauce is a glorious blend of melted butter, a bright squeeze of lemon, and a hint of fresh herbs that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the lobster.¹ Served on a perfectly toasted bun, it’s a taste of coastal New England that is both rich and perfectly balanced.

Decadent Lobster Rolls with Lemon-Butter Sauce

A Gourmet Feast

Yields: 4 servings

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

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Ingredients

• For the Lobster:

  • 1 ½ lbs cooked lobster meat, from 4-5 lobster tails or 2-3 whole lobsters, cut into bite-sized pieces

• For the Lemon-Butter Sauce:

  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter²

  • 1 lemon, juiced

  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped³

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • Pinch of salt and black pepper

• For the Rolls:

  • 4 New England-style hot dog buns or brioche buns⁴

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Lobster

1. If you are using cooked lobster tails or whole lobsters, carefully remove the meat from the shells. Cut the meat into large, bite-sized pieces.

2. Pat the lobster meat dry with paper towels. This will help prevent the final dish from being watery.

2. Make the Lemon-Butter Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, melt the ½ cup of butter over low heat. Be careful not to let it brown.

2. Once the butter is fully melted, stir in the fresh lemon juice, chopped chives, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Keep the sauce warm on very low heat.

3. Toast the Buns

1. In a large skillet, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat.⁵

2. Brush the sides of the buns with the melted butter. Place them in the skillet and toast for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crispy.

3. Transfer the toasted buns to a plate.

4. Finish and Assemble the Rolls

1. Gently add the cut lobster meat to the saucepan with the warm lemon-butter sauce.

2. Stir the lobster to coat it in the sauce and warm it through. This should only take 1-2 minutes. Do not overcook, as the lobster will become tough.

3. Carefully spoon the warm, butter-coated lobster meat into each of the toasted buns.

4. Serve immediately.

Pro-Tips for a Gourmet Feast

• Fresh is Best: If possible, use fresh, pre-cooked lobster meat. If using frozen lobster tails, thaw them completely, and poach them gently in the lemon-butter sauce for a few minutes until just cooked through.

• Don't Overcook: The lobster meat is already cooked, so you are only warming it.⁶ Overheating it will make it rubbery.

• The Right Bun: The New England-style hot dog bun, with its flat sides, is perfect for toasting and creating a sturdy base.⁷ A brioche bun is an excellent substitute for its soft, rich flavor.

• Balance is Key: The lemon juice is critical. It cuts through the richness of the butter and enhances the natural sweetness of the lobster. Don't skip it!

• Serve with Simple Sides: Pair your lobster rolls with a side of coleslaw, a simple green salad, or a bag of potato chips for an authentic coastal meal.