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Crab Cakes Recipe

Crab Cakes Recipe

Evelyn
Pan-fried crab cakes with jumbo lump crab, minimal filler, and a crispy golden crust that never falls apart.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
chilling 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American, Seafood
Servings 8 crab cakes
Calories 245 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Non-stick or cast-iron skillet
  • Fish spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat drained and picked through for shells
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs plus extra for coating if needed
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise full-fat
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter for frying
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil canola or grapeseed

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Add panko breadcrumbs to the wet mixture and stir to combine.
  • Gently fold in drained crab meat with a rubber spatula, being careful not to break up the lumps. Stop mixing as soon as just combined.
  • Form mixture into 8 equal patties, each about 1-inch thick. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Refrigerate patties for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, to firm up before cooking.
  • Heat butter and oil in a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until butter foams without browning.
  • Carefully place 4 crab cakes in the pan, leaving space between them. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until deep golden brown, flipping only once with a thin fish spatula.
  • Transfer cooked crab cakes to a wire rack to drain. Repeat with remaining patties. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Chilling is essential to prevent crab cakes from falling apart during cooking
  • Handle crab meat gently to preserve lump texture
  • Don't overcrowd the pan or temperature will drop
  • Internal temperature should reach 145°F when done
Keyword crab cakes recipe