Description
Classic Maryland-style crab cakes made with sweet lump crab meat, Old Bay seasoning, fresh herbs, and a light breadcrumb mixture. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these crab cakes are perfect as an appetizer or main course, delivering authentic Maryland seafood flavor with a buttery golden crust.
Ingredients
Crab Cake Mixture
- 450 g lump crab meat, drained and picked over
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
For Serving
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and black pepper until smooth and uniform.
- Fold in crab and other ingredients: Carefully fold in the lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, and green onions, mixing gently to keep the crab lumps intact and preserve the texture.
- Shape the crab cakes: Form the mixture into 6 to 8 evenly sized crab cakes, shaping them firmly but gently to hold together.
- Chill the crab cakes: Place the formed crab cakes in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to help them set and hold their shape during cooking.
- Heat the pan: Warm butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering and hot.
- Cook the crab cakes: Carefully place crab cakes in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden brown crust and are heated through.
- Serve immediately: Remove crab cakes from the pan and serve hot with fresh lemon wedges and your choice of dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use lump crab meat for the best texture and rich flavor.
- Avoid overmixing to keep the crab pieces intact and the cakes tender.
- For a lighter alternative, bake the crab cakes at 200°C (400°F) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve with sides like coleslaw, salad, roasted vegetables, or a light remoulade sauce for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course, Seafood
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American, Maryland
