Golden Crispy Crab Cakes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Golden Crispy Crab Cakes bring a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite. The freshness of the crab meat shines through while the panko breadcrumbs ensure the perfect crispy crust. The addition of Old Bay seasoning, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce gives these crab cakes a savory depth, while the chopped green onions and red bell pepper add a pop of color and subtle sweetness. With their delightful texture and perfect crispness, these crab cakes are perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or served as a finger food at parties. They’re easy to make, and you’ll love how they turn out every time!

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh lump crab meat, picked over for shells

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions

• 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Vegetable oil for frying

• Fresh lemon wedges and tartar sauce for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and fully incorporated.

2. Add Crab and Veggies: Gently fold in the lump crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, green onions, and red bell pepper. Be sure not to break up the crab meat too much—keep those chunks intact for great texture in your crab cakes.

3. Form Patties: Using your hands, form the mixture into small patties, about 3 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick. You should end up with about 8-10 patties. Place them on a parchment-lined baking tray.

4. Chill the Patties: Cover the tray with plastic wrap and refrigerate the crab cakes for at least 30 minutes. This will help them maintain their shape while frying.

5. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of the crab mixture into the pan. If it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go.

6. Fry the Crab Cakes: Carefully add the crab cakes to the skillet, cooking them in batches so as not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.

7. Drain and Serve: Once fried, transfer the crab cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess oil. Serve warm with fresh lemon wedges and tartar sauce on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling)

Variations

• Spicy Crab Cakes: For a spicy kick, add finely chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture before forming the patties.

• Vegetable Add-ins: You can add finely chopped celery or corn to the mixture for extra texture and flavor.

• Baked Crab Cakes: If you prefer baking over frying, place the patties on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover crab cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to retain their crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned crab meat instead of fresh?

While fresh lump crab meat provides the best texture and flavor, canned crab meat can be used as an alternative. Just be sure to drain it well and check for any shells before using it.

2. Can I make the crab cakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can form the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. Chilling them helps them hold their shape during cooking.

3. Can I freeze these crab cakes?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked crab cakes for up to 1 month. Just place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a zip-top bag. Fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

4. How do I prevent the crab cakes from falling apart while frying?

Make sure to refrigerate the patties before frying to help them firm up. Handle the cakes gently when forming and flipping to preserve their shape.

5. Can I bake these crab cakes instead of frying them?

Yes! For a healthier option, bake the crab cakes at 375°F (190°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden brown.

6. What can I serve with crab cakes?

Crab cakes are delicious with a variety of sides, such as a fresh salad, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes. You can also pair them with a tangy dipping sauce like tartar sauce or aioli.

7. How do I know when the crab cakes are done frying?

The crab cakes are ready when they are golden brown on both sides and crispy to the touch. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.

8. Can I make these crab cakes without mayonnaise?

If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt as a substitute for a tangy flavor and similar creamy texture.

9. Can I use a different seasoning besides Old Bay?

Yes! You can experiment with different seasonings, such as Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, or lemon zest, for a personalized flavor profile.

10. Can I add more vegetables to the crab cakes?

Absolutely! You can add finely chopped celery, zucchini, or even sweet corn for extra crunch and flavor. Just be sure to chop them finely to avoid altering the consistency of the mixture too much.

Conclusion

Golden Crispy Crab Cakes are the perfect seafood dish to make for any occasion. They’re easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and offer the perfect crispy texture. Whether you’re enjoying them as a main course or serving them as an appetizer, these crab cakes will be the star of the show. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be able to create a restaurant-quality dish right at home.