Crab Cake Sandwich Recipe
Okay, picture this: I’m A sun-drenched patio, ice-cold lemonade, and the *perfect* bite of crispy, succulent crab cake nestled in a glass. Between a toasted brioche bun. What is a summertime symphony in your mouth? Forget the bland burgers and chicken sandwiches. What is a crab cake sandwich recipe? How do you taste if you spent hours slaving away in the kitchen? Is this a good idea?
What is a crab cake sandwich?
Think of it as a deconstructed crab feast, conveniently packaged between two slices of bread. What is crab cake made of? What are the best toppings for a bun? It’s not just a sandwich, it is an experience. The combination of the sweet crab, the savory seasonings, and the creamy sauce is simply divine. This particular crab cake sandwich recipe is my take on a classic, streamlined for maximum flavor. With minimal fuss.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Seriously, where do I even begin? First off, the flavor is insane. We’re talking sweet, briny crab meat perfectly complemented by a tangy, slightly spicy remoulade. The crispy exterior gives way to a tender, juicy interior that’s just melt-in-your-mouth delicious. But beyond the taste, this Crab Cake Sandwich Recipe is surprisingly easy. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to whip these up. I’ve even gotten my kids involved in the process, and they love it! The ingredients are also pretty cost-effective. While crab meat can be a splurge, you can easily stretch it by using a combination of lump and claw meat. What I love most about this is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a casual lunch, a fancy brunch, or even a light dinner. It’s a total crowd-pleaser. If you’re a fan of seafood and love a good sandwich, this is a must-try! It’s way better than the fried fish sandwiches you get at those fast food joints, and you know exactly what’s going in it.
How to Make Crab Cake Sandwich
Quick Overview
How do you make a crab cake sandwich? How do I make a crab cake? Mix all the ingredients, and pan fry until golden brown. While the crab cakes are cooking, whip up a quick remoulade sauce. Then, toast your buns, pile on the crab cakes, and top with your favorite fixings. What is the best way to make a delicious meal for the weekend? I promise, you’ll impress yourself with how easily this comes together!
Ingredients Notes:
For the Crab Cakes:
Lump Crab Meat: This is the star of the show! Look for good quality lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture. You can use a mix of lump and claw meat to save some money.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These provide a light and crispy coating for the crab cakes. Don’t use breadcrumbs, panko is key!
Mayonnaise: This helps bind the crab cakes together and adds moisture. What is the best mayonnaise flavor?
What is the best way to use Dijon Mustard in crab cakes?
Worcestershire Sauce: A little goes a long way in adding depth of flavor to the crab cakes.
Old Bay Seasoning: This classic seafood seasoning is a must-have for crab cakes. Adjust the amount to your liking.
Lemon Juice: Brightens up the flavor of the crab cakes and adds a touch of acidity.
Egg: Helps bind crab cakes together.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the crab cakes.
Green onion: Adds a mild onion flavor to the crab cakes.
What is the recipe for Remoulade Sauce?
Mayonnaise: The base of the remoulade sauce. Again, use a good quality mayo.
Dijon Mustard: Adds tang and spice.
Creole Seasoning: Adds a kick of flavor to the remoulade sauce. Can you substitute Cajun seasoning with other spices if you prefer?
Horseradish: Adds a bit of zing to the remoulade sauce. Use prepared horsedish for convenience.
Hot Sauce: Adds a touch of heat to the remoulade sauce. Use your favorite hot sauce.
Lemon Juice: Brightens up the flavor of remoulade sauce.
What are some good pickle relish recipes?
Fresh Parsley: Adds freshness.
Green onion: Adds a mild onion flavor.
For the Sandwich:
Brioche Buns: These are my favorite for crab cake sandwiches because they’re soft, buttery, and slightly sweet. But feel free to use your favorite type of bun!
Lettuce: Adds a fresh and crisp element to the sandwich.
Tomato: Adds a juicy and flavorful element to the sandwich.
Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats to the sandwich.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add about a tablespoon of oil, enough to lightly coat the bottom of the pan. I prefer using a cast iron skillet for this recipe, as it distributes heat evenly and gives the crab cakes the perfect texture. What are some good crispy crusts? While the pan is heating up, you can start preparing the crab cakes.
Step 2: Mix Crab Cake Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the lump crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and salt. Set aside. Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, egg, fresh parsley, and green onion. Do not overmix crab cakes, as this can make them tough. I just want to combine the ingredients until they’re evenly distributed. What is the key here is gentle handling – you want those beautiful crab lumps to stay intact!
Step 3: Form Crab Cakes
Using your hands, gently form the crab mixture into patties, about 3-4 inches in diameter. How many crab cakes can I make? Place the crab cakes on a plate and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. How do I make a skewers firm up and prevent them from falling apart while cooking? If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but I highly recommend it!
Step 4: Cook Crab Cakes
Carefully place the crab cakes in the preheated skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the temperature and prevent the crab cakes from sticking. How can I prevent my hair from brown If necessary, cook them in batches. I always do this when I’m making them for a crowd.
Step 5: Make Remoulade Sauce
While the crab cakes are cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Creole seasoning, horseradish, hot sauce, lemon juice, pickle relish, fresh parsley, and green onion in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can make this sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Step 6: Toast Buns
How do you toast brioche buns? What makes a good sandwich?
Step 7: Assemble Sandwiches
Spread a generous amount of remoulade sauce on the bottom bun. Top with cheese. Top with lettuce, tomato, and avocado slices. Place a crab cake on top of the avocado and top with more remoulade sauce. Finish with the top bun. Serve immediately and enjoy!
What to Serve It With
What to Serve It With
Okay, so you’ve got this amazing Crab Cake Sandwich Recipe, but what do you serve with it? Here are a few ideas:
For Lunch: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is perfect. Or, try some crispy sweet potato fries. The sweetness of the fries complements the savory crab cakes beautifully.
For Brunch: Serve the Crab Cake Sandwich Recipe with a side of fruit salad and a mimosa. It’s the perfect way to start a weekend day!
As a Light Dinner: Pair the sandwich with a bowl of creamy tomato soup or a cup of New England clam chowder. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal.
For a Party: Cut the crab cake sandwiches into smaller portions and serve them as appetizers. They’re always a hit!
My family loves it when I make a big platter of these for summer get-togethers. I usually add a side of coleslaw, and everyone’s happy. It’s a great way to use up some of that leftover cabbage!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Crab Cake Sandwich
Okay, here’s the inside scoop on how to make the *best* Crab Cake Sandwich Recipe you’ve ever had:
Crab Meat Selection: Don’t skimp on the crab! Use good quality lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture. Claw meat is cheaper, but it doesn’t have the same sweetness or texture as lump meat. A mix of both works well if you’re on a budget.
Binding Agent: Be careful not to use too much breadcrumbs or mayonnaise, as this can make the crab cakes dense and dry. You want just enough to bind the ingredients together.
Flavor Boosters: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings. A pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a nice kick to the crab cakes.
Cooking Method: Pan-frying is my preferred method for cooking crab cakes, as it gives them a nice crispy crust. But you can also bake them in the oven or even grill them. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Bun Choice: The bun is just as important as the crab cake! Choose a soft and slightly sweet bun that will complement the flavor of the crab. Brioche buns are my go-to, but potato buns or even sourdough rolls would also work well.
Remoulade Variations: Feel free to customize the remoulade sauce to your liking. Add more horseradish for a spicier kick, or swap out the pickle relish for chopped dill pickles for a different flavor profile.
I learned the hard way not to overmix the crab cake mixture. The first time I made these, they were so tough! Now I’m super gentle, and they always turn out perfectly.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Okay, so you’ve made a batch of these amazing Crab Cake Sandwich Recipe, but you have leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store and reheat them:
Room Temperature: Crab cakes should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover crab cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the remoulade sauce separately.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the crab cakes. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Methods: The best way to reheat crab cakes is in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the crab cakes for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, but be careful not to burn them.
Glaze Timing Advice: Only add the remoulade sauce to the sandwich just before serving, as it can make the bun soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to Crab Cake Sandwich Recipe! It’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a fancy brunch, or a light dinner, this sandwich is sure to please. I love this recipe because it’s so versatile and can be customized to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings, toppings, and sauces to create your own signature Crab Cake Sandwich Recipe. If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other seafood recipes, such as my Shrimp Scampi and my Grilled Salmon. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!
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Crab Cake Sandwich Recipe
IngredientsÂ
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lump crab meat freshly picked over for shells
- 0.5 cup bread crumbs preferably panko
- 0.25 cup mayonnaise full-fat
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tbsp butter for frying
- 4 brioche buns
- 4 lettuce leaves
- 4 slices tomato
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, gently mix together the crab meat, bread crumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Form the mixture into 4 equal patties.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the crab cakes and cook until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Toast the brioche buns in the skillet until lightly browned.
- Assemble the sandwiches by placing a lettuce leaf and tomato slice on each bun, followed by the crab cake. Serve immediately.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
