New England Lobster Cakes Recipe
Quick Answer
Lobster cakes combine chopped lobster meat with breadcrumbs, egg, mayo, Dijon mustard, chives, and Old Bay seasoning, formed into patties and pan-seared in butter for 3-4 minutes per side. Served with lemon-herb aioli. Makes 6 cakes in 30 minutes.
By Sarah Mitchell • June 15, 2026
Lobster cakes are the luxurious cousin of the classic crab cake, made with sweet, succulent lobster meat bound with just enough breadcrumbs, egg, and mayonnaise to hold together. Originating in the seafood shacks of New England, lobster cakes let the delicate lobster flavor shine through without heavy fillers. Pan-seared to a golden crust, they're served with a lemon-herb aioli that brightens every bite.
About This Recipe
"New England Lobster Cakes" is a Appetizers recipe that brings cooked lobster meat, chopped (about 3 lobster tails), panko breadcrumbs, large egg, beaten, mayonnaise and Dijon mustard together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Medium and ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 6 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The American inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped (about 3 lobster tails)
- 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, minced
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, for pan-searing
Instructions
- 1
Gently fold together the lobster meat, panko, egg, mayonnaise, mustard, chives, Old Bay, and lemon juice. Be careful not to break up the lobster pieces too much.
- 2
Form the mixture into 6 even patties, about 3 inches across. Place on a plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.
- 3
Melt butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the lobster cakes and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and heated through.
- 4
Serve immediately on a bed of greens with lemon-herb aioli and lemon wedges.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Cooked lobster meat, chopped (about 3 lobster tails) is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Stovetop work especially well for this preparation. Because the recipe is pescatarian, it fits easily into balanced eating plans. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"New England Lobster Cakes" is a versatile Appetizers dish that pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, buttered green beans, roasted potatoes and classic American sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
New England Lobster Cakes stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating before sealing the container. Reheat gently until warmed through, adding a small splash of liquid if needed to restore the original texture.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen lobster tails?
Yes — thaw frozen lobster tails overnight in the fridge, then cook in boiling salted water for 5-6 minutes per tail. Cool and chop. Fresh is best but frozen works well.
Can I bake lobster cakes instead of pan-searing?
Yes — place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with melted butter, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden.
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