Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Rolls

Nothing brings a touch of luxury to a lunch quite like these creamy garlic butter lobster rolls. This recipe gives you that East Coast vibe right at home, layering tender lobster with rich garlic butter and a mayo-kissed dressing inside a buttery bun. It is comfort food with a splash of the seaside and impossible to forget once you taste it.

I fell for these rolls while vacationing on the coast and have been chasing that creamy lobster flavor ever since. Now they are my go-to for impressing friends on sunny weekends or when I want to spoil myself a little at lunchtime.

Ingredients

• Cooked lobster meat: fresh or thawed from frozen adds sweet delicate flavor and a meaty bite Look for clear white and red pieces for the best quality
• Butter: unsalted and high quality makes the garlic base truly rich European butter gives an extra luxurious feel if you can find it
• Fresh garlic: minced to release its full aroma and mellow zing Two good cloves are plenty but you can add more if you love it garlicky
• Mayonnaise: choose a creamy, real-egg mayo for the smoothest blend Japanese mayo offers a little extra tang if you like
• Dijon mustard: a dash sharpens the flavors and adds depth Whole grain works too for texture
• Lemon juice: freshly squeezed brightens all the richness and keeps the salad from feeling heavy
• Chives: chopped for a mild onion note and lovely color Snip them just before using so they stay vibrant
• Salt and black pepper: for seasoning Always taste as you mix to get the balance right
• Brioche or New England-style hot dog buns: the softer and richer the better A split-top bun holds the filling beautifully
• Melted butter (optional): for toasting gives the bun extra flavor and crunch A little goes a long way

Instructions

Make That Garlic Butter Pop:

Melt butter in a skillet over medium low heat and add the minced garlic Stir and let cook until the garlic smells sweet and just begins to turn golden You want the butter fully infused and the kitchen smelling amazing

Mix the Creamy Filling:

Move the garlic butter into a mixing bowl Add lobster meat then mayonnaise Dijon mustard lemon juice chopped chives salt and black pepper Stir gently so the lobster stays in nice chunks and everything gets coated with creamy goodness

Toast the Buns Just Right:

Brush the insides and edges of each bun with a thin layer of melted butter Place them in a skillet or oven on medium heat Toast until they turn golden and crisp while the outside stays pillowy This makes every bite rich and inviting

Stuff to the Max:

Generously load the creamy lobster mixture into each toasted bun Try to mound it high so every bite gives you lobster and butter together The more packed the roll the more impressive it looks and tastes

Finish and Serve Fresh:

Scatter extra fresh chives over the top Serve immediately while the filling is creamy and the buns are warm or chill the rolls for a refreshing picnic treat

When my family gathers for summer picnics these rolls disappear before anything else My favorite touch is using garden-fresh chives which always reminds me of making these rolls for my parents’ anniversary one sunny July

Storage Tips

Store leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day Try to keep the lobster and bread separate until serving so the buns stay crisp If you have extra buns wrap them in foil and reheat in the oven for just a few minutes to bring back their butteriness

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find lobster use high quality crab meat or cooked shrimp for a delicious alternative For a lighter version swap in Greek yogurt for part of the mayo and use light butter For extra tang try adding a small amount of capers or a pinch of smoked paprika

Serving Suggestions

Serve with lemon wedges on the side and a crisp salad for freshness These rolls are perfect for brunch spreads picnics or backyard get togethers Try pairing them with a cold iced tea or sparkling lemonade

Cultural Notes

Lobster rolls are a New England classic showcasing the region’s love for simple seafood done right Traditional rolls might be just lobster and butter but this creamy garlic twist feels both modern and classic at once Warm or chilled lobster rolls each have their fans and both bring the taste of summer to your kitchen

Seasonal Adaptations

In spring add a handful of thinly sliced radishes or celery for a fresh crunch During colder months, warm the filling slightly before stuffing the buns for a cozy winter treat If chives are not in season, substitute fresh tarragon or parsley

These rolls are best served soon after assembling for the ultimate bun texture Quality lobster makes all the difference so pick fresh or flash frozen meat for the sweetest flavor

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of lobster meat works best?

Claw and knuckle meat offer tender texture and rich flavor, but tail meat is also delicious when chopped.

→ Can I substitute the buns?

Brioche or New England hot dog rolls provide ideal softness, but soft sandwich rolls or split buns also work well.

→ How do I toast the buns perfectly?

Brush the buns with melted butter and toast in a skillet or oven until golden and crisp yet still soft inside.

→ Is it possible to prepare in advance?

You can make the lobster filling ahead and chill, then assemble and toast the buns just before serving for best flavor.

→ What sides go well with these rolls?

Pair with kettle chips, a crisp salad, or coleslaw for a complete, satisfying meal.

→ Should I serve them warm or cold?

They’re delicious either way—serve warm for comfort or chilled on hot days for refreshing luxury.