There is something truly magical about a Warm Lemon Butter Lobster Roll that feels like a coastal breeze in every bite. This elegant yet simple dish combines succulent, steamed lobster meat tossed generously in a fragrant lemon and tarragon butter, all nestled inside perfectly toasted hot dog buns. It’s the ultimate indulgence that turns a humble sandwich into a celebration of fresh flavors and rich textures, making it a must-try for anyone craving a taste of New England’s finest seafood tradition.

Warm Lemon Butter Lobster Roll Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its straightforward list of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating that luxurious balance of taste, texture, and aroma. Simple pantry staples paired with fresh lobster and herbs elevate the lobster roll into something unforgettable.

1 1/2 pound Maine Lobster (live): The star of the show, providing tender and naturally sweet meat.

4 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon butter (melted): Creates the rich, glossy lemon butter sauce and toasts the buns to golden perfection.
1 tablespoon tarragon (chopped + more for garnish): Adds a fragrant herbal note that pairs beautifully with seafood.

1/2 lemon (juiced): Brightens and balances the richness with citrus freshness.
Pinch salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasoning.

2 top split hot dog buns: Perfectly soft yet sturdy enough to hold the buttery lobster filling without falling apart.

How to Make Warm Lemon Butter Lobster Roll

Step 1: Steam the Live Lobster

Start by bringing about an inch of water to a boil in a large pot fitted with a steamer basket. With great care, transfer your live lobster into the basket using tongs, cover the pot, and let it steam for 12-14 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the shell turns a vibrant red. After steaming, let the lobster cool just enough to handle—it should still be warm to retain that wonderful juiciness.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Tarragon Butter

While the lobster steams, melt 4 tablespoons of butter gently in a small saucepan. Stir in the chopped tarragon, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Keep this warm on low heat so the flavors meld together into a luscious sauce that will coat your lobster.

Step 3: Toast the Buns to Golden Perfection

Melt the remaining teaspoon of butter in a skillet or cast iron pan. Place the top split buns in the pan and griddle them, turning with tongs until each side develops a crisp, golden crust. Toasting the buns not only adds amazing texture but also ensures they can hold the warm, buttery lobster without getting soggy.

Step 4: Extract and Toss the Lobster Meat

Using lobster crackers or kitchen shears, carefully remove the meat from the lobster’s tail and claws, keeping it in large chunks for a luxurious feel. Split the tail lengthwise and add all the warm lobster pieces to the lemon tarragon butter in the saucepan. Toss gently to coat every morsel in that bright, buttery sauce.

Step 5: Assemble the Warm Lemon Butter Lobster Roll

Divide the warm, buttery lobster evenly between the toasted buns. For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle more of the lemon butter sauce over the top and sprinkle with extra chopped tarragon. Serve immediately for a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s pure seaside bliss.

How to Serve Warm Lemon Butter Lobster Roll

Garnishes

Fresh tarragon is not just a garnish here—it brings a fragrant lift that enhances the lobster’s natural sweetness. A light sprinkle right before serving adds a beautiful contrast in color and flavor. For a slight pop, you can add a twist of lemon zest or a few microgreens for a fresh, vibrant note.

Side Dishes

Since the Warm Lemon Butter Lobster Roll is rich and satisfying, pairing it with light, crisp sides works best. Think crunchy coleslaw, salty kettle-cooked chips, or a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. A chilled cucumber salad or some steamed asparagus with a squeeze of lemon would also complement the lobster roll marvelously.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress at your next gathering? Serve individual lobster rolls in mini brioche buns or artisan rolls for a gourmet twist. You can also present the lobster meat separately in small ramekins alongside toasted bread for guests to make their own. Arranging the rolls on a wooden board with lemon wedges and fresh herbs creates a stunning, rustic presentation that invites everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any Warm Lemon Butter Lobster Roll leftovers, place the lobster meat and buns separately in airtight containers. Store the lobster meat in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Keeping the buns separate preserves their texture so they don’t become mushy.

Freezing

Freezing lobster meat can sometimes affect its delicate texture, so it’s best to enjoy your lobster roll fresh whenever possible. However, if you must freeze, store the lobster meat without the butter sauce in a freezer-safe container and use within 2 months. Avoid freezing the buns as they tend to become crumbly upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat the lobster butter gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid burning the butter. Warm the lobster meat in the sauce just until heated through—overheating can make it rubbery. Re-toast the buns in a skillet for a few minutes to restore their crispness before assembling your roll.

FAQs

What type of lobster is best for this recipe?

Maine lobster is the classic choice for warm lemon butter lobster rolls due to its sweet, tender meat. Fresh live lobster yields the best flavor and texture.

Can I use precooked lobster meat instead of live lobster?

Yes, you can use precooked lobster meat if short on time, but be careful to heat it gently with the lemon butter to avoid drying out the meat.

How do I prevent the buns from getting soggy?

To avoid sogginess, toast the buns well before assembling and add the lobster just before serving. Keeping the butter sauce warm but not too watery also helps preserve the bun’s texture.

Can I substitute tarragon with another herb?

If tarragon is not available, fresh dill or chives can work as alternatives, offering complementary herbal notes with seafood, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Is this recipe suitable for a special occasion?

Absolutely! The Warm Lemon Butter Lobster Roll is elegant yet approachable, making it perfect for casual dinners, weekend brunches, or impressing guests at a summer party.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough giving this Warm Lemon Butter Lobster Roll a try—you’ll fall in love with the harmony of buttery richness, bright citrus, and fresh lobster in every bite. Whether it’s a treat for yourself or a dish to share with friends, it transforms a simple sandwich into a gourmet celebration that feels both luxurious and welcoming. So grab your lobster and get ready to enjoy a little taste of coastal magic!

Warm Lemon Butter Lobster Roll Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 13 reviews

Author: Noah

Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 2 lobster rolls 1x
Diet: Low Salt

Print Recipe

Description

This Warm Lemon Butter Lobster Roll is a decadent, flavorful seafood sandwich featuring tender Maine lobster tossed in a buttery lemon and tarragon sauce. Griddled hot dog buns add a satisfying crunch, making it a perfect gourmet twist on a classic lobster roll that’s ideal for a special occasion or a luxurious summer meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 1/2 pound Maine live lobster
4 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon butter (melted)

1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, chopped + more for garnish
1/2 lemon, juiced
Pinch of salt

2 top split hot dog buns

Instructions

Steam the Lobster: Fill a large pot with one inch of water and fit it with a steamer basket. Bring the water to a boil, then using tongs, carefully place the live lobster in the basket. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the lobster for 12-14 minutes, or until the shell is bright red and the lobster is cooked through. Transfer the lobster to a cutting board and allow it to cool slightly until you can handle it safely.
Prepare the Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add the chopped tarragon, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir the mixture to combine and keep it warm on low heat to infuse the flavors.

Griddle the Buns: Melt the remaining teaspoon of butter in a skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat. Place the top split hot dog buns in the pan and griddle them until they develop a golden-brown crust, turning them with tongs several times to evenly brown all sides. Remove from heat once browned and crispy.
Prepare the Lobster Meat: Using lobster crackers or kitchen shears, carefully remove the meat from the lobster’s tail and claws, keeping the pieces large and intact. Split the lobster tail lengthwise. Transfer the warm lobster meat into the warm butter sauce and gently toss to coat the lobster evenly with the lemon tarragon butter.
Assemble and Serve: Divide the butter-coated lobster meat evenly between the two griddled buns. Drizzle additional butter-lemon sauce over each sandwich as desired for extra richness. Finish by sprinkling extra fresh tarragon on top for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy your warm, flavorful lobster rolls.

Notes

Use fresh live Maine lobster for the best flavor and texture.
Be careful not to overcook the lobster to keep it tender and juicy.
Griddling the buns in butter adds a deliciously crisp texture and rich flavor.

You can substitute tarragon with fresh dill or chives if preferred.
Serve lobster rolls immediately after assembling to enjoy the buns crisp and lobster warm.
This recipe is best served with simple sides like coleslaw or kettle chips.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Sandwich

Method: Steaming, Griddling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 lobster roll

Calories: 450
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 320mg

Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g

Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g

Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: Lobster roll, Maine lobster, lemon butter lobster, tarragon lobster sandwich, seafood sandwich