Crab cakes are a delightful treat for seafood lovers, combining fresh crab meat with savory spices and herbs. This recipe will show you how to create perfectly crispy crab cakes that are bursting with flavor. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these crab cakes will impress your family and friends. Get ready for a culinary adventure that brings the taste of the sea right to your kitchen!
Ingredients
– 1 lb fresh crab meat
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Oil for frying
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 10-15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (2 crab cakes) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 22g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Fat: 22g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional information is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large bowl, combine the crab meat and mayonnaise.
2. Gently fold in the beaten egg and mix until well combined.
3. Add the breadcrumbs, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix gently to avoid breaking up the crab meat too much.
5. Shape the mixture into patties, about 3 inches in diameter.
6. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
7. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the crab cakes to the skillet.
8. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
10. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute fresh crab meat with canned crab meat for convenience, but be sure to drain it well. Additionally, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Serving and Pairings
These crab cakes pair beautifully with a tangy remoulade sauce or a light salad. They also go well with roasted vegetables or a side of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover crab cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. You can also freeze the uncooked patties for up to 2 months; just make sure to separate them with parchment paper.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overmixing the crab mixture to keep cakes tender.
– Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
– Don’t skip the breadcrumbs; they help bind the cakes together.
– Use fresh crab meat for the best flavor.
– If too moist, add more breadcrumbs to the mixture.
Helpful Tips
– Chill the crab cake mixture for 30 minutes before cooking for better structure.
– Squeeze out excess moisture from the crab meat to prevent sogginess.
– Experiment with spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
– Use a non-stick skillet for easier flipping.
FAQs
Can I use frozen crab meat for this recipe?
Yes, frozen crab meat can be used. Make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before mixing it into the recipe.
How do I know when the crab cakes are done?
The crab cakes should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I bake the crab cakes instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Place the formed crab cakes on a baking sheet and brush with oil. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What sauces pair well with crab cakes?
Tartar sauce, remoulade, or a spicy aioli make excellent dipping sauces for crab cakes.
Can I prepare the crab cakes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the cakes ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Conclusion
This crab cakes recipe is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. With its delightful flavors and crispy texture, it’s an easy yet impressive dish that showcases the best of seafood cuisine. Enjoy the process of making these delicious crab cakes, and savor every bite!

Crab Cakes Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh crab meat
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 egg beaten
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the crab meat and mayonnaise.
- Gently fold in the beaten egg and mix until well combined.
- Add the breadcrumbs, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently to avoid breaking up the crab meat too much.
- Shape the mixture into patties, about 3 inches in diameter.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the crab cakes to the skillet.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.