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Baltimore Crab Cakes Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 123 reviews
  • Author: Lana
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 crab cakes 1x

Description

This Baltimore Crab Cakes recipe features tender lumps of fresh crab meat combined with classic seasonings and a crisp golden crust. Perfectly balanced with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and Old Bay seasoning, these crab cakes are pan-fried to perfection or can be baked for a lighter option. An iconic Maryland dish that’s easy to prepare and delivers authentic coastal flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Crab Cake Mixture

  • 1 pound fresh lump crab meat
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free crackers/almond flour for gluten-free option)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For Cooking

  • 2–3 tablespoons butter or oil for frying (or baking)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crab Mixture: Gently combine the lump crab meat with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, eggs, breadcrumbs, Old Bay seasoning, chopped parsley, and fresh lemon juice in a large bowl. Be careful to handle the crab meat delicately to preserve the lumps and avoid breaking it up too much.
  2. Shape the Crab Cakes: Using your hands or a scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized patties about 3 inches in diameter and ¾ inch thick. This size ensures even cooking and a nice balance between crispy edges and a tender interior.
  3. Chill Before Cooking: Place the formed crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the crab cakes hold together during cooking and intensifies their flavors.
  4. Cook the Crab Cakes: Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the crab cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan to maintain even frying and crispiness. Alternatively, for a lighter version, bake the crab cakes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes until golden and cooked through.
  5. Serve Warm: Transfer the cooked crab cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite garnishes or side dishes.

Notes

  • Use fresh lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor.
  • Chilling the crab cakes before cooking is essential to keep them from falling apart.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
  • Baking the crab cakes is a healthier alternative to frying and reduces fat content.
  • Old Bay seasoning is a classic spice blend that adds authentic Maryland flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes (frying) / 15 minutes (baking)
  • Category: Seafood
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Baltimore Crab Cakes, Maryland Crab Cakes, Crab Cake Recipe, Seafood Patty, Old Bay Crab Cakes, Pan Fried Crab Cakes

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Find it online: https://mealsbylana.com/baltimore-crab-cakes-recipe/