Crab Cake Recipe

If you’re craving something elegant yet remarkably easy, this Crab Cake Recipe will absolutely win your heart (and your taste buds!). Combining tender crab, a medley of fresh veggies, and a perfect balance of zesty seasoning, these crab cakes come together in under 30 minutes for a restaurant-worthy meal right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself on a weeknight, the golden crust and juicy interior of this dish are totally irresistible. Trust me, the Crab Cake Recipe is one you’ll reach for again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Crab Cake Recipe is in its simplicity—every ingredient serves a purpose, from holding everything together to adding that special kick of flavor or crunch of color. Here’s everything that goes into making these crave-worthy crab cakes.

• Crab meat: The star of the show—use high-quality lump crab for the sweetest, most flavorful result.
• Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and richness, binding all the ingredients together for a tender bite.
• Egg: Just one large egg helps the cakes hold together so they don’t fall apart in the pan.
• Panko bread crumbs: These keep the cakes airy and light, contributing a crispy exterior after frying.
• Celery hearts, finely minced: Provides a delicate crunch and a burst of freshness in every mouthful.
• Red onion, finely minced: For a gentle bite and beautiful flecks of color.
• Chives, finely snipped: Adds a subtle oniony flavor and gorgeous green color.
• Yellow mustard: This classic condiment brings both tang and depth.
• Old Bay seasoning: No crab cake is complete without this iconic blend—it brings traditional summer flavor and gentle heat.
• Salt and fresh cracked black pepper: Season boldly to bring out all the flavors.
• Tabasco hot sauce: Just a few shakes for a spark of heat and complexity.
• Olive oil and butter (for frying): Together, they lend a golden crust and buttery flavor.
• Fresh salad greens: The perfect bed to serve your crab cakes on, adding freshness and crunch.
• Cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered: For juicy sweetness that balances the richness of the cakes.
• Red onion slivers: A bit more sharpness and color for your salad base.
• Olive oil and vinegar: Drizzle lightly over salad for just the right tang.
• Lemon wedges: A must for squeezing just before serving—they brighten every bite.
• Remoulade or tartar sauce: Choose your favorite creamy dip for that classic crab cake experience.

How to Make Crab Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Crab

Start by draining any excess moisture from your crab meat—this is essential for perfect texture! Carefully place it on several layers of paper towel, patting gently so the delicate chunks remain intact. This little step ensures your Crab Cake Recipe won’t be soggy, and the crab flavor will really shine.

Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, egg, panko bread crumbs, celery, red onion, chives, mustard, Old Bay seasoning, salt, pepper, and a few shakes of Tabasco. Blend everything thoroughly, making sure the flavors are perfectly distributed.

Step 3: Gently Fold in the Crab

Add the prepped crab meat to your bowl. Fold it in very gently with a spatula or your hands—handle with care to keep those lovely big crab chunks as whole as possible. This creates that signature, luxurious texture that makes this Crab Cake Recipe so delightful.

Step 4: Shape and Chill

Use an ice cream scoop or a 1/4 cup measure to portion out the mixture into even cakes. Pop them onto a tray and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook—at least 20 minutes helps them firm up. Chilling is key since it helps the cakes keep their shape during cooking.

Step 5: Pan-Fry to Perfection

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, add the crab cakes and gently flatten them with a spatula. Brown each side for a few minutes until gorgeously golden—don’t overcrowd the pan, and add a bit more oil or butter as needed.

Step 6: Finish in the Oven

Move your browned crab cakes to a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350F oven for 12-15 minutes, until cooked through. They’ll be piping hot and beautifully crisp, with the interior reaching 165F.

Step 7: Build Your Salad and Serve

While the cakes bake, arrange fresh salad greens on four plates. Top each with cherry tomatoes and red onion, then drizzle with a little olive oil and vinegar. When your crab cakes are ready, nestle two hot cakes on each salad plate, add lemon wedges, and serve with creamy remoulade or tartar sauce. There you have it—the ultimate Crab Cake Recipe, ready to impress!

How to Serve Crab Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A squeeze of fresh lemon is always a winner for brightening the flavors, while a spoonful of remoulade or tartar sauce brings classic creamy zing. If you want to elevate your presentation, a light sprinkle of extra chives or microgreens over the top adds stunning color and a pop of freshness to each Crab Cake Recipe serving.

Side Dishes

Crab cakes pair beautifully with simple salads—think mixed greens tossed in oil and vinegar, just like in this recipe. They’re also amazing alongside coleslaw, roasted baby potatoes, or a quick corn and avocado salad. The lightness of the sides balances the savory richness of each Crab Cake Recipe, making for a complete and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, try mini crab cakes as passed appetizers with tiny dollops of sauce and a sprig of dill. Or make a hearty sandwich by tucking a crab cake into a toasted brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, and extra sauce. And for a brunch twist, serve your Crab Cake Recipe with a poached egg and a swirl of hollandaise—pure delight!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover crab cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Let them cool first, then layer between sheets of parchment paper so they don’t stick together. The flavors deepen overnight, making next-day bites especially tasty!

Freezing

You can freeze assembled, uncooked crab cakes for convenient meal prep. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag with parchment between each cake. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking as usual for that just-made Crab Cake Recipe texture.

Reheating

For best results, reheat crab cakes in a 350F oven on a baking sheet until they’re hot through and lightly crisped—usually about 10-12 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them soggy. A quick pan-sauté in a touch of oil also revives the crust beautifully!

FAQs

Can I use canned crab meat for this Crab Cake Recipe?

Absolutely! Canned crab can work beautifully, especially if you choose a good quality lump variety—just be sure to drain it well to remove excess liquid. Fresh or pasteurized crab will always give the most flavor, but canned is a great option in a pinch.

How do I keep my crab cakes from falling apart?

Careful folding, proper chilling, and letting the egg and mayonnaise do their binding work are key. Don’t skip the refrigerating step—it firms everything up, so your Crab Cake Recipe holds together while cooking.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! The crab cakes can be shaped and stored (uncooked) in the refrigerator for up to a day in advance. Bake or fry just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What is the best sauce to serve with this Crab Cake Recipe?

A classic homemade remoulade or tartar sauce is always a crowd-pleaser, but you can also try aioli, a lemon-dill yogurt dip, or even a sweet chili sauce for a creative spin!

Can I bake instead of pan-fry the crab cakes?

Definitely! For a lighter version, bake the crab cakes directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through to achieve a golden crust on each side.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hosting friends or just making yourself something special, this Crab Cake Recipe is always a rewarding choice. The crisp outside, luscious crabby center, and simple salad make every bite unforgettable. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it a new family favorite!

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