Baked Crab Cakes Recipe for Seafood Enthusiasts

Crispy golden baked crab cakes dance with a perfect blend of succulent seafood and delicate seasonings.

Marine flavors burst through each carefully crafted morsel, promising a delightful culinary adventure.

Delicate chunks of fresh crab mingle with herbs and spices, creating an irresistible harmony of tastes.

Lighter than traditional fried versions, these cakes offer a healthier approach to enjoying coastal cuisine.

Home cooks can easily master this simple yet impressive dish that looks professionally prepared.

Minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques make these crab cakes accessible for anyone seeking a restaurant-quality meal.

Summer gatherings or intimate dinners become extraordinary with these elegant, mouthwatering seafood delights waiting to impress you.

Why Baked Crab Cakes Are a Seafood Favorite

• Swap traditional deep-frying with this oven-baked method that cuts down on unnecessary oil and calories while maintaining delicious flavor.
• Whip up these crab cakes in just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining.
• Create restaurant-quality appetizers or main dishes that appeal to both seafood lovers and picky eaters with simple, fresh ingredients everyone will enjoy.
• Easily adapt the recipe by adjusting seasonings, using gluten-free breadcrumbs, or pairing with different dipping sauces to match personal preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients for Flavorful Crab Cakes

• Lump Crab Meat: Sweet, delicate protein base of the dish, best when fresh or high-quality packaged.

• Mayonnaise, Egg: Creamy ingredients that help hold the crab cakes together and provide richness.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Light, crispy texture that helps bind ingredients and creates a golden exterior.

• Dijon Mustard, Worcestershire Sauce: Tangy condiments that add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
• Old Bay Seasoning, Garlic Powder, Paprika: Classic seafood spice blend that provides traditional crab cake seasoning.
• Lemon Juice: Bright, acidic element that enhances seafood flavor and adds freshness.
• Parsley, Green Onions: Fresh herbs that bring color, mild onion notes, and a touch of brightness.

• Cooking Spray, Olive Oil: Light coating for achieving a crispy, golden exterior.
• Parchment Paper: Non-stick surface for easy baking and cleanup.

Baking Instructions for Crab Cakes

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 400F (200C) temperature.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Surface

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light spray of cooking oil.

Step 3: Create Flavor Base

• Mayonnaise
• Egg
• Dijon mustard
• Worcestershire sauce
• Old Bay seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Lemon juice
• Fresh parsley
• Green onions

Step 4: Fold Seafood Treasure

• Lump crab meat
• Panko breadcrumbs

Blend carefully to maintain the delicate crab texture.

Step 5: Shape Ocean Gems

Use hands to form 6-8 circular crab cakes, each about half a cup in size.

Step 6: Position On Baking Surface

Arrange crab cakes on prepared sheet, ensuring space between each.

Step 7: Enhance Crispiness

Lightly spray tops with cooking oil or brush with olive oil.

Step 8: Bake To Golden Perfection

Slide into oven and bake 18-20 minutes, flipping midway until golden and firm.

Step 9: Optional Crispy Finish

For extra crunch, broil 1-2 minutes at the end.

Step 10: Serve With Flair

Present warm with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or a fresh side salad.

Tips for Crispy Edges and Moist Centers

• Prevent Crumbly Cakes: Mix ingredients gently and avoid overmixing to maintain the delicate texture of crab meat and ensure cakes hold together perfectly.
• Boost Flavor Intensity: Use fresh lump crab meat and add extra Old Bay seasoning for a more pronounced seafood taste that elevates the entire dish.
• Crispy Surface Hack: Spray or brush olive oil on top before baking and finish with a quick broil to create a beautiful golden-brown crust that adds crunch.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make the recipe suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Storage Smart Move: Cool crab cakes completely before refrigerating and consume within 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain their crispy exterior and prevent sogginess.

How to Store and Reheat Like a Pro

• Store leftover crab cakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap individual crab cakes tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for maximum 1 month to maintain quality and taste.
• Preheat to 375F. Arrange crab cakes on a baking sheet and warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy texture.
• Brush with a little olive oil before reheating to restore original crispiness and enhance flavor profile.

Tasty Sides for Your Crab Cakes

• Select a zesty Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the delicate crab meat and cut through the richness of the cakes.
• Prepare a tangy coleslaw with fresh lemon juice, green onions, and a light vinaigrette to enhance the seafood's bright flavors and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Whip up a quick herb-infused aioli using fresh parsley, dill, and garlic to add an extra layer of creamy, zesty goodness that elevates the crab cakes' taste profile.
• Serve with a chilled sparkling water or light beer like a wheat ale to cleanse the palate and highlight the crab cakes' delicate seasoning.

Fun Twists on the Traditional Recipe

• Gluten-Free Crab Cakes: Replace panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to create a celiac-friendly version while maintaining the same delicious texture.
• Spicy Cajun Crab Cakes: Add cayenne pepper, additional Old Bay seasoning, and diced jalapeños to create a zesty, bold flavor profile with extra heat for spice lovers.
• Low-Carb Keto Crab Cakes: Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or finely ground almond meal, reducing carbohydrate content while keeping the crab cakes crispy and satisfying.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan mayonnaise and ensure all ingredients are dairy-free, making the recipe accessible for those with dairy restrictions or following a plant-based diet.

FAQs About Baked Crab Cakes

• What makes these crab cakes different from traditional fried versions?

These baked crab cakes are healthier because they use less oil and are cooked in the oven, reducing overall fat content while still achieving a crispy exterior.

• How can I ensure my crab cakes don't fall apart during baking?

Be gentle when mixing ingredients, use fresh lump crab meat, and avoid overmixing. Chilling the formed cakes for 15-30 minutes before baking can also help them hold together better.

• Can I use canned crab meat instead of fresh?

While fresh lump crab meat is recommended for best flavor and texture, you can use good quality canned crab meat. Just drain it thoroughly and check for any shells before mixing.

• What's the purpose of Old Bay seasoning in this recipe?

Old Bay seasoning adds a classic seafood flavor profile with its blend of herbs and spices, specifically enhancing the natural taste of the crab meat and providing a subtle, traditional seafood seasoning.

Baked Crab Cakes Recipe

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4.6 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Delightful Maryland Crab Cakes bring coastal flavors straight to your kitchen, packed with fresh lump crabmeat and delicate seasonings. Crispy golden exteriors and tender interiors promise a seafood experience you’ll savor with every delectable bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein Base:

• 1 pound (1 lb) lump crab meat (picked over for shells)

Binding and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 egg (lightly beaten)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika

Herbs and Finishing Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon green onions (chopped)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil (for baking)

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Instructions

1. Prepare a baking sheet by lining with parchment paper or applying a light coating of cooking spray, ensuring a non-stick surface for the delicate crab cakes.
2. Combine all wet and dry seasoning elements in a spacious mixing bowl, whisking thoroughly to create a harmonious flavor profile that will complement the delicate crab meat.
3. Incorporate the lump crab meat into the seasoned mixture, using a gentle folding technique to maintain the meat’s integrity and prevent breaking apart the delicate chunks.
4. Carefully blend panko breadcrumbs into the crab mixture, ensuring even distribution without compressing the delicate protein.
5. Craft individual crab cakes by hand, molding them into uniform rounds approximately half a cup in volume, taking care to keep the texture loose and airy.
6. Arrange the formed crab cakes on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow proper heat circulation and potential browning.
7. Enhance the exterior by lightly misting with cooking spray or brushing with olive oil, which will promote a golden, crisp exterior during baking.
8. Roast in a preheated oven at 400F (200C), rotating the cakes midway through cooking to ensure consistent browning and thorough heating.
9. For an additional layer of crispness, activate the broiler for a brief 1-2 minute finish, watching carefully to prevent burning.
10. Present the golden-brown crab cakes immediately, accompanied by zesty tartar sauce, fresh lemon wedges, or a crisp complementary salad.

Notes

• Maximize crab meat quality by using fresh, high-grade lump crab for the most delicate texture and rich seafood flavor.
• Avoid overmixing the crab cake mixture to prevent dense, tough patties; gently combine ingredients to maintain a light, tender consistency.
• Customize breadcrumbs by using gluten-free panko for celiac-friendly options or add extra herbs like dill or chives for enhanced aromatic profile.
• Create perfect golden-brown crust by ensuring even cooking spray or olive oil application and using the broiler briefly for ultimate crispiness.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg