These mouthwatering Maryland Crab Cakes are made with sweet and delicate lump crab meat and are a seafood lover’s dream. Our recipe keeps it simple, allowing the crab’s natural flavor to shine through. Get ready to savor the taste of Maryland in every bite.
What Are Maryland Crab Cakes
Maryland crab cakes are a popular and iconic seafood dish originating from the U.S. state of Maryland. These crab cakes are made primarily from crab meat, with minimal fillers and seasonings to let the natural flavor of the crab shine through. The dish is known for its simplicity and emphasis on high-quality crab.
What Type of Crab to Use
Lump crab meat works best and is known for its sweet and delicate flavor. The meat is carefully picked through to remove any shells. Blue crab meat is commonly used for Maryland style. Blue crabs are native to the Atlantic coast of the United States, including the Chesapeake Bay region of Maryland.
Use high-quality lump crab meat or jumbo lump crab meat. Lump crab meat consists of larger, whole pieces of crab meat, while jumbo lump crab meat consists of the largest, premium pieces.
Click here for additional information, What is Lump Crab Meat.
How to Season and Spices
- Old Bay seasoning: This classic blend of herbs and spices is a popular seasoning and includes celery salt, pepper, paprika, and other spices, and adds a savory, slightly spicy flavor.
- Mustard: You can use standard or Dijon. A little bit of mustard can add a tangy flavor.
- Worcestershire sauce: This sauce is made from vinegar, molasses, and spices, and can add a sweet and savory flavor.
- Lemon juice: Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavors.
How to Make Maryland Crab Cakes
- In a large bowl, whisk together Worcestershire sauce, mustard, lemon juice, egg, mayo, Old Bay Seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Gently fold in the lump crab meat and breadcrumbs, being careful not to break up the large chunks of crab.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
- Sear, air fry, or bake.
How to Tell When They Are Done Cooking
- The crab cakes will turn golden brown on the outside when they are cooked through.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the crab cakes. The temperature should be 140-160 degrees to ensure that they are fully cooked.
- When they are fully cooked, they will be firm and hold their shape when touched. If they are still soft or fall apart, they may need more time to cook.
Pair With These Recipes
Classic Mashed Turnips
Charleston Red Rice
Stuffed Green Peppers
Jiffy Cornbread with Creamed Corn
Maryland Crab Cakes
Ingredients
- ¼ cup mayo
- 1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz lump crab meat
- 2-3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- cooking oil I used olive.
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the worcestershire sauce, mustard, lemon juice, egg, mayo, Old Bay Seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Gently fold in the lump crab meat and breadcrumbs, being careful not to break up the large chunks of crab.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each portion into a patty. If you have a difficult time forming patties, add more breadcrumbs.
Stovetop/Pan Seared Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the crab cake patties and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Allow the crab cakes to cool.
Air Fryer Instructions
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil.
- Place the crab cakes in the Air Fryer. Spray the top of the crab cakes with cooking oil.
- Cook for 8-12 minutes at 370 degrees. Cook time will vary based on the size of your patties.
- Allow the crab cakes to fully cook before moving. If you move them too soon they will fall apart.
Oven/Baked Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Place the crab cake patties on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
- Bake the crab cakes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Allow the crab cakes to fully cook before moving. If you move them too soon they will fall apart.