Description
These Crispy Crab Cakes are packed with fresh lump crab meat, lightly seasoned, and pan-fried to golden perfection. Perfectly crunchy on the outside and tender inside, these crab cakes are served with a creamy Dijon dipping sauce, making them an irresistible appetizer or main dish!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Crab Cakes:
- 1 lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or paprika + garlic powder)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil (for frying)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
-
Prepare the Mixture:
- In a large bowl, gently mix crab meat, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, parsley, and green onions.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Shape the Cakes:
- Form the mixture into small patties (about 2-3 inches in diameter).
- Place on a tray and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to firm up.
-
Pan Fry:
- Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the crab cakes for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
-
Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, hot sauce (if using), and garlic powder until smooth.
-
Serve & Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with the dipping sauce and lemon wedges.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, coat the crab cakes in panko breadcrumbs before frying.
- Baking option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Swap Old Bay seasoning with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne if unavailable.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- chill time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
