Description
Bring the flavors of the coast to your table with these Classic Crab Cakes! Perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with the sweet, briny flavor of fresh crab, they’re ideal for an appetizer, main course, or sandwich filling.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium celery stalk, finely diced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1 pound lump crabmeat, well-drained
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- 1/4 cup neutral oil (canola, safflower, or grapeseed) for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Tartar sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine celery, mayonnaise, parsley, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, hot sauce (if using), and salt. Mix well.
- Add the Crab and Breadcrumbs
- Gently fold in the lump crabmeat, being careful not to break up the chunks.
- Add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers and mix until just combined.
- Shape the Crab Cakes
- Divide the mixture into 6–8 portions and shape each into a patty about 1 inch thick.
- Chill the Patties
- Place the crab cakes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Crab Cakes
- Heat neutral oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the crab cakes for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot with lemon wedges and tartar sauce. Pair with a simple salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Chill Before Cooking: Helps the patties hold their shape during frying.
- Lump Crabmeat: Use fresh or pasteurized for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Be gentle to preserve the chunks of crab.
- Variations: Add jalapeños for a spicy kick, or bake at 400°F (200°C) for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: Coastal, American