Introduction
Craving a taste of the coast without leaving your kitchen? Look no further than this classic crab cake recipe. Perfect for busy moms, professionals, or anyone seeking a quick and delightful seafood dish, these crab cakes are easy to make and sure to please.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the secrets of creating the perfect crab cakes—crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside. No fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients required. Just simple, straightforward cooking that delivers exceptional results every time.
So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven or skillet, and let’s embark on this delightful culinary journey together!

Why You’ll Love This Crab Cake Recipe
- Simplicity at Its Best: No need for chilling the mixture or using multiple bowls. This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly.
- Perfect Texture: Achieve that coveted balance of crispy exteriors and tender interiors.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer different types of crab meat or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, this recipe is versatile.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties, family dinners, or a comforting meal at home.
📝 Ingredients:
- 1 pound lump crab meat
- 1/2 cup mayonnaiseThe Kitchn+15Delicious Meets Healthy+15Allrecipes+15
- 1 large eggRecipe Cart
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoningReddit+2Once Upon a Chef+2bakerypauline.blogspot.com+2
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Prepare the Crab Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Add Crab and Breadcrumbs: Gently fold in the crab meat, breadcrumbs, and chopped parsley. Be careful not to break up the crab meat too much.
- Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into 6-8 patties, depending on your preferred size.
- Chill the Patties: Place the patties on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during cooking.
- Cook the Crab Cakes: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the crab cakes and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the crab cakes hot, garnished with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
📝 Notes:
- Crab Meat: For the best flavor, use fresh lump crab meat. However, canned or frozen crab meat can also be used if fresh is not available.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter texture, but regular breadcrumbs work as well.Diethood
- Cooking Method: While frying gives a crispy exterior, you can also bake the crab cakes at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
📋 Details:
- Prep Time: 15 minutesSugar Spun Run
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 crab cakes
- Category: Main CourseOnce Upon a Chef
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Pescatarian
- Keywords: crab cake recipe, easy crab cakes, homemade crab cakes, best crab cakes, Maryland crab cakes
🍽️ Nutrition (Per Serving):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mgSerious Eats+3YouTube+3People.com+3
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
🧂 Tips & Tricks:
- Binding the Mixture: If the mixture feels too loose, add a bit more breadcrumbs to help bind it.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair the crab cakes with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
❤️ A Personal Touch:
“This crab cake recipe became a family favorite after our trip to the Chesapeake Bay. The flavors reminded us of the coastal breeze and the joy of discovering new culinary delights together.”

❓ FAQs:
Q: Can I make the crab cakes ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q: What dipping sauces go well with crab cakes?
A: Tartar sauce, remoulade, or a simple lemon aioli are excellent choices.
Q: Can I freeze the crab cakes?
A: Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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