Easy Crab Cakes Recipes

Alright y’all, get ready to dive into one of my family’s absolute faves — Easy Crab Cakes Recipes. Think flaky crab deliciousness, spiced to perfection, crisp on the outside, juicy inside, and perfect for impressing your in-laws or just treating yourself on a lazy Tuesday.
When I first whipped these up, I had no idea they would become such a frequent request from my husband and kiddos. There’s something about the combo of seafood goodness and the smell of these sizzling on the stove that calls everyone into the kitchen like moths to a flame. It’s become one of those recipes that we just can’t live without — like seriously, even the family dog waits under the table for crumbs.
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Why You’ll Love This Easy Crab Cakes Recipes
– They’re so crispy yet tender, like a warm hug for your mouth.
– Super easy and quick — because who has time to be in the kitchen all day?
– Versatile and foolproof! You can mess them up a bit, and they’re still delightful.
How to Make It
Alright, so imagine you’re in the kitchen, music’s playing, hair’s tied up in your best “I’m-cooking-and-I-mean-business” knot. First, you’re gonna mix your crab, breadcrumbs, and that heavenly seasoning together just until they’re best friends. Then, let the mixture chill, which makes them easier to handle (and gets you a coffee break). Scoop out little mounds of crab joy and smush them slightly. Fry up those bad boys until golden perfection. You know the drill — don’t burn them, but a little “oops” crisp is always welcome here.
Ingredient Notes
– Crab Meat: Ah, the star of the show! Make sure it’s fresh, unless you want crab cakes that taste like they’ve seen better days.
– Breadcrumbs: These are like the glue that’ll hold everything together, so don’t skimp.
– Old Bay Seasoning: Don’t you dare skip this one, unless you’re into blandness. It’s the magic!
Recipe Steps
1. Mix crab, breadcrumbs, Old Bay, and other goodies.
2. Chill mixture for about 30 minutes.
3. Shape mixture into patties.
4. Fry patties over medium heat until golden brown.
5. Drain on paper towels, then devour.
What to Serve It With
Tips & Mistakes
Mess up? No worries. If they fall apart, call it crab hash and roll with it.
Storage Tips
Leftovers? (Do these even exist?) Just pop them in an airtight container in the fridge. Cold crab cakes make a weirdly delicious breakfast — like cold pizza, but better. No one’s judging if you snag one at 9 am.
Variations and Substitutions
When the pantry’s bare, I’ve swapped out breadcrumbs for crushed saltines — not the same, but does the trick. Skipped the Old Bay once, and let’s just say, never again. Pepper flakes add a nice kick if you’re into that sorta thing.
Frequently Asked Questions

Easy Crab Cakes Recipes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lump crab meat
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise use light mayo if preferred
- 0.25 cup finely diced red bell pepper
- 0.25 cup finely diced celery
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs for coating and mix
- 1 unit large egg beaten
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter for frying
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine crab meat, mayonnaise, diced red bell pepper, celery, Dijon mustard, and Old Bay seasoning. Be careful not to break up the crab meat too much.
- Add the beaten egg and 0.25 cup panko breadcrumbs to the mixture. Mix until everything is just combined.
- Form the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties, about 3 inches in diameter. Lightly coat each patty with the remaining panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat butter and vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the crab cakes for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from heat and drain on a paper towel. Serve hot with tartar sauce or lemon wedges.
Notes
Featured Comments
“Made this last night and it was family favorite. Loved how the shareable came together.”
“This crispy recipe was family favorite — the flavorful really stands out. Thanks!”
“Impressed! Clear steps and family favorite results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“New favorite here — will make again. flavorful was spot on.”
“New favorite here — family favorite. flavorful was spot on.”
“This bite-sized recipe was so flavorful — the flavorful really stands out. Thanks!”