Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Maryland Style Crab Cakes are loaded with sweet lump crab meat and seasoned with Old Bay, Dijon mustard, and fresh parsley. The crispy golden exterior gives way to a tender, flavorful interior. This recipe creates the perfect crab cakes that are light on fillers, letting the crab take center stage. The combination of simple ingredients makes them quick to prepare and cook, while the result is a mouthwatering dish that tastes like it came straight from the Chesapeake Bay.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Additional mayonnaise for serving
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a large bowl, gently combine the lump crab meat and breadcrumbs, being careful not to break the delicate crab meat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, parsley, lemon juice, and salt and pepper.
- Fold the creamy mixture into the crab mixture until just combined.
- Form the mixture into cakes, about 1/2 inch thick and 3 inches wide. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them hold together while cooking.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the crab cakes and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve with lemon wedges and extra mayonnaise on the side.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe makes about 6-8 crab cakes.
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Variations
- Baked Crab Cakes: For a lighter option, bake the crab cakes in a preheated 375°F oven for about 15-20 minutes instead of frying.
- Spicy Crab Cakes: Add a little cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mayonnaise for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the crab with imitation crab meat or other seafood alternatives for a twist on the classic.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover crab cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat crab cakes in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or bake in a 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
Can I make Maryland Style Crab Cakes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the crab cakes up to 24 hours ahead. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.
What type of crab meat should I use for crab cakes?
Use fresh, lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture. Avoid imitation crab meat, as it doesn’t offer the same quality.
Can I bake these crab cakes instead of frying them?
Yes, simply bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for a crispy finish.
How can I ensure the crab cakes hold together while cooking?
Chilling the formed cakes for at least 30 minutes before cooking helps them maintain their shape and prevents them from falling apart.
Can I freeze Maryland Style Crab Cakes?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked crab cakes for up to 2 months. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
How do I know when the crab cakes are fully cooked?
The crab cakes should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the interior should be hot and fully cooked. You can check with a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can I make these crab cakes without Old Bay seasoning?
Yes, you can substitute Old Bay with a mix of paprika, celery salt, and cayenne pepper to get a similar flavor profile.
What do I serve with Maryland Style Crab Cakes?
Serve with lemon wedges, a side of slaw, or a light salad to complement the richness of the crab cakes.
Can I use fresh breadcrumbs instead of seasoned?
Yes, you can use fresh breadcrumbs, but seasoned breadcrumbs will add more flavor to the crab cakes.
How do I make the crab cakes extra crispy?
Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the crab cakes, and avoid overcrowding the pan so they can crisp up properly on all sides.
Conclusion
Maryland Style Crab Cakes are a fantastic dish that captures the essence of the Chesapeake Bay. They’re easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and sure to be a hit at any gathering. With their tender, sweet crab meat and crispy exterior, these crab cakes are the perfect addition to any summer meal or special dinner. Try making them yourself and enjoy a taste of Maryland right in your own kitchen!
