Irresistible Crab Cakes: A Coastal Delight Recipe

Name: Crab Cakes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Makes approximately eight crab cakes
Cuisine: Coastal
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh lump crab meat; 1 cup plain breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp Dijon mustard; 2 large eggs; 2 tsp Old Bay seasoning; 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 2 green onions (chopped); 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped); Cooking oil (for frying)

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

November 15, 2025

Updated:

November 15, 2025

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Crab cakes have a magical ability to whisk you away to sandy shores, where the breeze carries the salty aroma of the ocean. Picture this: crisp golden exteriors giving way to tender, flavorful crab meat that dances with spices on your palate, making each bite a celebration of coastal flavors.

Growing up, crab cakes were the star of every family gathering. My Aunt Sally’s version was always the talk of the table, and we often fought over who got to take the last one. I can still hear her laughter as she recounted stories of beach trips while we savored those delightful bites. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy winter dinner, crab cakes bring joy and nostalgia to any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These crab cakes are easy to prepare and full of flavor, making them perfect for any occasion

Visually appealing with their golden crust, they are sure to impress guests at your next gathering
The versatility allows for customization with different seasonings or dips, ensuring everyone finds their favorite way to enjoy them

I remember the first time I made crab cakes myself; my family couldn’t believe I had become Aunt Sally’s apprentice in the kitchen!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Lump Crab Meat: Look for sweet, fresh lump crab meat for that authentic taste and texture; avoid canned options if possible.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs for binding; they help create that perfect crispy exterior without overpowering flavors.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess and moisture; opt for a good quality mayo for best results.

Dijon Mustard: A hint of tanginess balances the sweetness of the crab; don’t skip this essential ingredient.
Eggs: Bind everything together; they ensure that your cakes hold their shape while cooking.
Old Bay Seasoning: This iconic blend enhances flavor; it’s a must-have for any Maryland-style crab cake.

Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up flavors; it’s like sunshine in your recipe!
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add freshness and a mild onion flavor that complements crab beautifully.
Parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also brings a refreshing taste; chop finely for even distribution.

Cooking Oil (for frying): Use a high smoke point oil like vegetable or canola oil for frying your cakes perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. It helps to have everything within reach while you’re mixing and forming those tasty treats.

Mix It All Up!: In a large bowl, combine crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, eggs, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, green onions, and parsley. Gently fold until just mixed—be careful not to break up those lovely lumps of crab.

Shape Those Cakes!: With clean hands or using an ice cream scoop, form the mixture into patties about 1 inch thick. Place them on a plate lined with parchment paper for easy transport later.

Chill Out!: For best results, refrigerate your formed crab cakes for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape better during cooking.

Fry ‘Em Up!: Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Carefully place each cake into the pan without overcrowding—let them sizzle away!

Crisp Until Golden!: Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and heated through. You’ll know they’re done when they’re beautifully crispy and irresistible!

With these steps completed, you now have delectable homemade crab cakes ready to be devoured! Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce or atop mixed greens for a delightful meal that will impress everyone around your table. Enjoy this journey from ocean waves to your dining room—every bite is worth it!

You Must Know

Crab cakes are a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with a crispy texture
The aroma of sautéed onions and fresh herbs will keep you coming back for more

Perfect for appetizers or main dishes, these cakes impress guests while being surprisingly easy to make

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing crab meat and ingredients in a bowl, then chill the mixture before forming patties. This ensures they hold their shape while cooking.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. Each variation brings new excitement to this classic dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover crab cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to restore their crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly shaped crab cakes, use a biscuit cutter as a mold
Avoid over-mixing your ingredients to keep crab pieces intact
Chill the patties for at least 30 minutes before cooking for better texture and flavor retention

Nothing beats the time I made crab cakes for my family reunion. They devoured them within minutes, asking for the recipe as if it were some kind of secret family heirloom!

FAQs

FAQ

What type of crab should I use for crab cakes?

Using lump crab meat offers the best texture and flavor, but any fresh crab works.

Can I freeze cooked crab cakes?

Yes, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months.

What can I serve with crab cakes?

Pair your crab cakes with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or a fresh green salad for balance.

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