Instant Pot Lobster Rolls offer a simple and quick way to enjoy a classic New England favorite at home. With just a few basic ingredients, including frozen lobster tails, Old Bay seasoning, mayonnaise, and lemon juice, anyone can make flavorful and juicy lobster rolls without needing special skills.
The Instant Pot cooks the lobster tails perfectly and helps lock in their natural juices for a tender bite every time.
This easy seafood recipe is ideal for both entertaining guests and treating the family. Lobster meat is mixed with a creamy dressing, a hint of parsley, and tangy lemon juice, then served on soft, buttery rolls.
The use of frozen lobster tails makes this meal approachable, quick, and convenient.
What are Lobster Rolls?
Lobster rolls are a classic sandwich from New England, especially known in Maine. They feature tender lobster meat, often cooked with salt, pepper, and lemon, then mixed with a creamy blend of mayonnaise, butter, and parsley.
This filling is served on hoagie rolls or similar soft rolls. Some recipes use extra flavor like Old Bay seasoning and serve the rolls either cold or warm.
Toasting the buns adds extra taste and texture.
What lobster meat is best for Lobster Rolls?
The best lobster meat for lobster rolls comes from the claw, knuckle, and tail. The mix adds both tenderness and flavor.
For easy prep, use frozen lobster tails—these can be cooked right from the freezer or after a short thaw.
A basic table comparing options:
| Type | Texture | Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Claw | Soft | Sweet |
| Knuckle | Chewy | Rich |
| Tail (frozen/fresh) | Firm | Mild |
Fresh or frozen lobster works well; just be careful not to overcook, as this keeps the meat juicy.
Lobster rolls may be served on toasted rolls, with cold mayonnaise or warm butter, depending on preference.
Can I use other types of seafood to make Lobster Rolls?
Yes, other types of seafood can be used to make rolls similar to classic lobster rolls. Many people substitute shrimp, monkfish, or even scallops for lobster.
Shrimp makes a great alternative and is easy to prepare using the same seasonings and sauces. Monkfish is known for its texture and mild flavor that closely resembles lobster but is usually more affordable.
Scallops, chopped and tossed in a light garlic butter, can also be used. Imitation lobster is another option; it does not need cooking and can be warmed if desired.
A handy table is below for quick reference:
| Substitute | Texture/Flavor | Preparation Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | Firm, sweet | Cook then mix with mayo and lemon juice |
| Monkfish | Tender, mild, similar | Steam or boil then chop |
| Scallops | Soft, sweet | Sauté with garlic and butter |
| Imitation lobster | Firm, mild | Use directly or warm up |
Instant Pot cooking works well for shrimp or monkfish, just like with lobster tails. Old Bay seasoning, mayonnaise, butter, lemon juice, sea salt, and parsley keep the flavors close to the original.
Toasted hot dog buns or garlic bread can hold any of these fillings.
For those exploring other seafood recipes, options like an instant pot shrimp boil, clam chowder, or even lobster bisque all use similar core ingredients and techniques.
Try making your own lobster broth with shells for added flavor in soups and other dishes. Always adjust cooking times based on the type of seafood used.
What can I serve with Lobster Rolls?
Popular sides for lobster rolls include coleslaw, potato salad, French fries, and grilled corn. For a lighter option, a Caesar salad pairs well.
Serve lobster meat mixed with mayonnaise, butter, and lemon juice on toasted hot dog buns—use gluten-free buns if needed. Toasting the buns or using hot garlic bread adds extra flavor and crunch.
What can I put on my Lobster Rolls?
There are many tasty toppings for lobster rolls. Key ingredients include mayonnaise, soft butter, and fresh lemon juice.
Stir in fresh parsley and chives for color and flavor. Try mixing in chopped celery, diced sweet onion, or bread and butter pickles.
Season with salt, pepper, or extra Old Bay. Top with a sprinkle of shredded lemon.
Ingredients
Below is a table showing the main ingredients needed to prepare Instant Pot Lobster Rolls. These items bring out the classic flavors and textures of this dish.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Old Bay Seasoning | 1 tablespoon | |
| Frozen lobster tails | 4 | No thawing needed |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup | For the sauce |
| Butter (softened) | 2 tablespoons | Adds richness |
| Lemon juice | 1 1/2 tablespoons | Fresh is best |
| Parsley | 1 tablespoon | Chopped, for freshness |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | |
| Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Hot dog buns | 4 | Toast if desired |
These simple ingredients, including melted butter and lemon juice, help highlight the sweet flavor of the lobster. The addition of Old Bay seasoning and parsley gives the rolls a classic touch.
Gluten-free buns can be used if needed.
How To Make
To prepare Instant Pot lobster tails, start by placing a trivet inside the Instant Pot. Pour in 1 cup of water and sprinkle with Old Bay seasoning.
Use kitchen shears to cut a slit down the back of each lobster tail. This helps make opening the tail and removing the meat much easier.
Arrange the lobster tails upside down on the trivet. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 4 minutes.
When cooking is complete, do a quick release to let out the steam. The quick release is important because it stops the cooking right away and prevents the lobster from getting overdone.
In a bowl, blend the mayonnaise, softened butter, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Remove the shells from the steamed lobster tails, then cut the meat into bite-size pieces. Stir the lobster into the sauce mixture.
Spoon the lobster mixture onto hot dog buns, hoagie rolls or French rolls. For more flavor, try serving on toasted buns or garlic bread.
This recipe works best if you use the right amount of water and follow the pressure cooking instructions for tender, juicy lobster every time.
Tips and Recipe Notes
Costco is a great place to find frozen lobster tails at a reasonable price. These can be cooked straight from the freezer, or thawed for a bit for a slightly different texture.
Using the right amount of water in the Instant Pot is important in the cooking process to prevent the lobster from drying out. A slice cut down the back of each tail makes it much easier to remove the meat after cooking.
The blend of mayonnaise, butter, lemon juice, and parsley gives a fresh flavor to the lobster. Toasting the buns adds a crisp texture, but garlic bread is also a nice alternative.
To help compare, here’s a quick table:
| Lobster Temp | Mayo Option | Serving Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Cold | Include mayo | Toasted bun |
| Hot | Mayo optional | Garlic bread |
How to Store Lobster Rolls
To keep lobster rolls fresh, always place leftovers in the fridge quickly.
Store the lobster meat and the bread separately in airtight containers.
This helps the bread stay crisp and avoids sogginess.
The lobster mixture, which often includes mayonnaise, butter, lemon juice, and parsley, can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
If freezing, do not mix the lobster with mayo before storing.
Freeze only the lobster meat in an airtight container for up to 3-4 months.
When ready to serve, prepare a fresh sauce and assemble on toasted hot dog buns or gluten-free rolls.
| Storage Method | How Long | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 2-3 days | Store separately |
| Freezer | 3-4 months | Freeze meat only |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the appropriate cook time for lobster in an Instant Pot for making lobster rolls?
Lobster tails should be cooked on high pressure for about 4 minutes in the Instant Pot.
Place them on a trivet above 1 cup of water with Old Bay seasoning.
After cooking, do a manual (quick) release for best results.
Make sure the lobster tails are cut down the back before cooking to help with removing the meat.
Can I use frozen lobster to make lobster rolls in an Instant Pot, and if so, how?
Yes, frozen lobster tails can go straight into the Instant Pot without thawing.
Simply follow the same steps: add water and seasoning, place the frozen tails on the trivet, and cook at high pressure for 4 minutes.
If preferred, lobster tails can be left out for 1-2 hours to thaw slightly, which may change the texture.
What are the best ingredients to mix with lobster meat for a roll when using an Instant Pot?
For a creamy and flavorful filling, mix these ingredients with the cut lobster meat:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons softened butter
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Stir everything well and toss in the lobster pieces.
Which type of bread is ideal for serving Instant Pot lobster rolls?
The classic choice is a hot dog bun or a hoagie roll.
French rolls also work well for a sturdier option.
For more flavor, the buns may be toasted or served as hot garlic bread.
Toasted bread can add extra crunch to the sandwich.
Are there any gluten-free alternatives for making lobster rolls using an Instant Pot?
Yes, use gluten-free rolls in place of regular buns.
Most stores carry gluten-free bread options, which makes it simple to substitute without changing the flavor or texture of the lobster roll.
What side dishes complement Instant Pot lobster rolls for a complete meal?
Popular side dishes to serve with lobster rolls include:
- Potato chips or French fries
- Cole slaw
- Dill pickles
- Green salad
- Summer corn on the cob
Lobster Roll in an Instant Pot
Equipment
- 1 pressure cooker
- 1 trivet
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
- 4 lobster tails
- 1/4 cup mayonaise
- 2 tbsp butter softened
- 1.5 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 4 hoagie rolls
Instructions
- Prep the Instant Pot and lobster: Place the trivet in the pressure cooker and add 1 cup of water.
- Sprinkle water with Old Bay seasoning.
- Using kitchen shears, cut a slice down the back of each lobster tail. This makes the meat easier to remove.
- Place lobster tails upside down on the trivet.
- Cook: Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.
- Make the sauce: Add mayonnaise, butter, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper to a mixing bowl.
- Stir until well blended.
- Prepare the lobster: After cooking is complete, do a manual pressure release.
- Remove lobster tails with tongs and place on a cutting board. Open the shells and take out the meat.
- Chop the meat into bite-sized pieces and mix with the mayonnaise blend.
- Serve: Spoon the lobster mixture onto hot dog buns, rolls, or toasted bread.
- Serve chilled or warm, as desired.
Notes
- Lobster tails can go into the Instant Pot straight from the freezer. Thawing is not required, but if preferred, tails can be left out for 1–2 hours before cooking for a softer texture.
- Always use enough water in the pressure cooker to prevent the lobster from drying out.
- Toasting the buns or using garlic bread can add extra flavor and crunch
So easy and delicious!