Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Maryland Crab Cakes are full of flavor thanks to the combination of fresh crab meat, Old Bay seasoning, and a rich mixture of ingredients that bind the cakes together without overpowering the natural sweetness of the crab. They are easy to make, bake to golden perfection, and are an excellent way to showcase this beloved seafood dish. Plus, with a drizzle of fresh lemon juice, they are an irresistible treat!

Ingredients

1 large egg
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1.5 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
1/8 teaspoon salt
15 Saltine crackers
16 ounces jumbo lump crab meat
3 tablespoons butter

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 450°F.
Place the saltine crackers into a food processor and pulse until they are finely chopped into crumbs.
In a large bowl, combine the egg, mayonnaise, parsley, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and the cracker crumbs. Stir gently to mix. Then, carefully fold in the jumbo lump crab meat, trying to keep the crab meat as intact as possible.
Using a 1/2 cup measuring cup, gently scoop the crab mixture, pressing it into the cup to pack it. Turn the measuring cup upside down over a baking sheet and tap gently to release the crab cake. Shape the crab cake with your hands if needed.
Refrigerate the crab cakes for 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cakes hold their shape during baking.
While the cakes are chilling, melt the butter in a small microwave-safe dish for 15 seconds, or until fully melted.
After chilling, brush the melted butter over each crab cake.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the outside is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and serve with fresh lemon wedges.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Crab Cakes: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some extra heat.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs as a substitute for saltines.
Mini Crab Cakes: Form the crab mixture into smaller portions for bite-sized appetizers.
Baked Crab Cakes: For a healthier option, you can bake these crab cakes without butter, though they may be slightly less crispy.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover crab cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes or until hot. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping gently to avoid breaking the cakes.

FAQs

Can I make these crab cakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the crab cakes in advance, refrigerate them for up to 24 hours, and bake them when ready to serve.

Can I freeze Maryland Crab Cakes?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place the uncooked crab cakes on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve with Maryland Crab Cakes?

These crab cakes are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a simple salad, coleslaw, or even a side of roasted vegetables or fries.

Can I use other types of crab meat?

While jumbo lump crab meat is ideal for its texture and flavor, you can use backfin or claw meat as well. Just keep in mind that they may have a slightly different texture.

How do I prevent the crab cakes from falling apart?

Chilling the crab cakes before baking is key to ensuring they hold their shape. Handle them gently when forming the cakes and avoid overmixing the crab meat.

Can I make these crab cakes without mayonnaise?

If you prefer, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version.

Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs instead of saltines?

Yes, you can use store-bought breadcrumbs, but saltine crackers provide a nice crunch and flavor. You may need to adjust the amount of breadcrumbs based on their texture.

Can I make these crab cakes without Old Bay seasoning?

Yes, if you don’t have Old Bay, you can create a homemade version by combining paprika, celery salt, black pepper, cayenne, and other spices to taste.

How do I know when the crab cakes are done?

The internal temperature should reach 145°F, and the exterior should be golden brown and crispy. You can also gently press on the cakes to ensure they feel firm.

Conclusion

Maryland Crab Cakes are the epitome of delicious comfort food. With their crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior, these crab cakes are a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a seafood treat, these crab cakes will become a favorite dish you’ll make time and time again.

Maryland Crab Cakes