Crab Cakes

Crab Cakes

7 servings
The BEST Crab Cakes recipe couldn't be more delicious or easy, made with fresh lump crab meat, bell pepper, cilantro, mayo and spices. Serve them as an appetizer or main dish, topped with our crab cakes sauce.

Ingredients

  • lump crab meat
    1 lb
  • bell pepper

    diced), (yellow, red, or a little of both

    ½ c
  • eggs

    , separated

    2 large
  • old bay seasoning
    2 tsp
  • mayonnaise
    2 tbsp
  • garlic

    , minced

    1 clove
  • fresh cilantro

    , chopped

    1 tbsp
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper
    , to taste
  • cornstarch
    ¼ c
  • olive oil
    1 tbsp
  • panko bread crumbs
  • mayonnaise
    1 c
  • chives

    , finely chopped

    2 tbsp
  • garlic

    , minced

    2 cloves
  • fresh lime juice
    2 tsp
  • chipotle chili powder
    1 tsp
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

  1. 1

    Make the sauce by combining the ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate, covered, until ready to serve. (Can be made several days in advance).

  2. 2

    Mix crab and seasonings: In a mixing bowl add the crab meat, bell peppers, one beaten egg, Old Bay seasoning, mayo, garlic, cilantro and salt and pepper. Gently stir just until blended.

  3. 3

    Refrigerate for at least one hour, or up to 5 hours.

  4. 4

    Form Crab Cakes: Beat the remaining egg and add to a shallow dish. Add the panko bread crumbs to another dish. Spoon about 1/3 cup of the mixture into your palm and flatten into a small disc, about 3 inches in diameter. Sprinkle the outsides of the crab cake patties with a tiny bit of cornstarch.

  5. 5

    Dip each patty lightly in the beaten egg, and then coat them lightly with panko bread crumbs. I try to avoid doing a thick coating of crumbs because I like the crab flavor to shine through as much as possible. 

  6. 6

    Cook: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the crab cakes and cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, until golden brown on bottom. Gently flip to the other side and cook for another 3 minutes, or until golden. Remove to a plate.

  7. 7

    Serve warm with chipotle mayo sauce for dipping.

Crab Cakes

Crab Cakes

5.0(64)85 min7 servings204 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving the ultimate crab cake experience without leaving your kitchen? This recipe delivers the BEST Crab Cakes you'll ever taste, combining the freshest lump crab meat with vibrant flavors and a homemade sauce that truly elevates every bite.

Why This Recipe Works

What makes these homemade crab cakes stand out is the commitment to quality ingredients and balanced flavors. We start with generous amounts of fresh lump crab meat, ensuring each bite is packed with that sweet, delicate crab flavor. The perfect blend of bell pepper, fragrant cilantro, and a touch of Old Bay seasoning complements the crab without overpowering it, while a creamy mayonnaise base and cornstarch act as a gentle binder, allowing the crab to shine.

What to Expect

Prepare for a culinary delight that's both elegant and approachable. You'll bite into a tender, flavorful interior, rich with the sweetness of crab, subtle spice from Old Bay, and a fresh herbaceous note from cilantro. The exterior promises a delightful crispness, thanks to a coating of panko bread crumbs, making each crab cake incredibly satisfying. Whether you serve them as a sophisticated appetizer for guests or as a luxurious main dish for a weeknight treat, these crab cakes are sure to impress with their authentic taste and perfectly balanced texture.

Customization & Variations

Feel free to play with the bell pepper color, using yellow, red, or a vibrant mix of both to add visual appeal and a touch of sweetness. If you're a fan of a little extra heat, you can adjust the chipotle chili powder in the accompanying crab cakes sauce to your liking. For a different herb profile, though cilantro is recommended, a touch of fresh parsley or chives could also complement the flavors.

Serving & Context

These delicious crab cakes are perfect for any occasion, from a festive holiday gathering to a special family dinner. They shine brightest when served warm, generously topped with our creamy, zesty homemade crab cakes sauce, which adds a bright, tangy counterpoint to the rich seafood.

Frequently Asked Questions