Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Maryland crab cakes are a classic American dish known for their delicate yet robust flavor. This recipe uses lump crab meat for a juicy, tender texture, combined with savory seasonings like Old Bay and green onions. The cakes are baked, not fried, so they’re lighter but still deliver a satisfying crisp. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, these crab cakes will impress every time!

Ingredients

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

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced
• 1 pound lump crab meat
• 1 cup saltine crackers, crushed
• Lemon wedges and remoulade sauce for serving (optional)
• Cooking spray

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning.
2. Stir in the sliced green onions.
3. Add the crab and cracker crumbs to the bowl, gently mixing them to combine. Be careful not to break the crab into smaller pieces.
4. Cover and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
5. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Coat a sheet pan with cooking spray.
6. Form the chilled crab mixture into 8 equal-sized patties, about 1/3 cup each.
7. Place the patties on the prepared sheet pan and bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and remoulade sauce, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Seafood Twist: Combine shrimp and crab for a unique seafood blend.
• Vegetables: Add sautéed onions, garlic, or bell peppers for a veggie boost.
• Flavor Add-ins: Experiment with smoked paprika, dill, or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Sauce Alternatives: Serve with tartar sauce or cocktail sauce instead of remoulade for a different flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover crab cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a crispier crust.

FAQs

How do I prevent the crab cakes from falling apart?

The key is to gently mix the crab with the other ingredients and avoid overworking the mixture. Chilling the mixture before forming the patties also helps the cakes hold together.

Can I use a different type of crab meat?

Yes, you can use other types of crab meat such as Dungeness or rock crab. Just make sure to use large chunks or lump style crab meat.

Can I fry these crab cakes instead of baking them?

Yes, you can fry the crab cakes in a pan with a little oil to achieve a crispy exterior. You may need to add more cracker crumbs to the mixture to ensure the cakes stay firm.

What is Old Bay seasoning?

Old Bay is a popular seasoning blend used in seafood dishes, with a mix of celery salt, paprika, mustard, and other spices. It adds a distinctive, slightly spicy flavor.

Can I make these crab cakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crab cakes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them right before serving for the best texture.

How can I make the crab cakes spicier?

Add more hot sauce or some cayenne pepper to the mixture for extra heat.

Can I freeze Maryland crab cakes?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked crab cakes. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze them before transferring to a container. When ready to cook, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I serve with Maryland crab cakes?

Serve them with fresh greens, roasted potatoes, asparagus, or a side of rice pilaf for a well-rounded meal.

Can I use other types of breadcrumbs instead of saltines?

Yes, you can use panko breadcrumbs or buttery cracker crumbs as a substitute.

Is it possible to make a low-fat version of crab cakes?

Yes, you can reduce the amount of mayonnaise or use a light version to make these crab cakes lower in fat.

Conclusion

Maryland crab cakes are a timeless, delicious dish that’s easy to make and sure to impress. With tender crab meat, savory seasonings, and a crispy exterior, these baked crab cakes are perfect for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!