Maryland Crab Cakes

This Maryland Crab Cakes recipe showcases the best of coastal cuisine with its fresh lump crab meat and minimal filler. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or enjoying a casual family meal, these crab cakes are sure to impress. Their light texture, golden edges, and delightful flavor make them a standout dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Crab Cakes:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Maryland Crab Cakes
• Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
• Step 2: Fold in Crab Meat and Cracker Crumbs
• Step 3: Chill the Mixture
• Step 4: Preheat the Oven
• Step 5: Portion the Crab Cakes
• Step 6: Bake the Crab Cakes
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Maryland Crab Cakes
• With Fresh Lemon Wedges
• Accompanied by Tartar Sauce
• Paired with Cocktail Sauce
• Garnished with Fresh Parsley
• On a Bed of Greens
• With Pickled Vegetables
• How to Perfect Maryland Crab Cakes
• Best Side Dishes for Maryland Crab Cakes
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Maryland Crab Cakes
• Reheating Maryland Crab Cakes
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Maryland Crab Cakes unique?
• Can I use canned crab meat?
• How do I know when Maryland Crab Cakes are done?
• What do I serve with Maryland Crab Cakes?
• Can I customize my Maryland Crab Cakes recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be enjoying homemade crab cakes in no time.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of lump crab meat and Old Bay seasoning brings a taste of Maryland right to your kitchen.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these crab cakes as an appetizer, main course, or even in a seafood sandwich.
• Baked Not Fried: Enjoy the crispy edges without the guilt of frying. These baked crab cakes offer a lighter option for seafood lovers.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Freeze unbaked crab cakes for future meals, making them a convenient choice for busy nights.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Silicone spatula or large spoon
• ½-cup measuring cup
• Rimmed baking sheet
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is necessary for combining all ingredients without spilling.
• Silicone spatula or large spoon: Gentle folding is key to keep the lump crab meat intact while mixing.
• Rimmed baking sheet: Prevents any spills while baking and allows for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Crab Cakes:

• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup (60g) mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried)
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (use up to 1½ teaspoons for a spicier flavor)
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, plus more for serving
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 1 pound (454g) fresh lump crab meat
• ⅔ cup (41g) saltine cracker crumbs (about 17–18 2-inch crackers)
• Optional: 2 tablespoons (30g) melted salted or unsalted butter

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Maryland Crab Cakes

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, mayonnaise, parsley, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, and salt until well combined.

Step 2: Fold in Crab Meat and Cracker Crumbs

Gently place the lump crab meat on top of the mixture. Then add the cracker crumbs. Using a silicone spatula or large spoon, carefully fold everything together without breaking up the delicate crab meat.

Step 3: Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate the crab cake mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 day. This step helps maintain their shape while baking.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to preheat at 450°F (232°C). Generously grease a rimmed baking sheet with butter or nonstick spray, or line it with a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

Step 5: Portion the Crab Cakes

Using a ½-cup measuring cup, scoop out portions of the mixture and form them into mounds on your prepared baking sheet. Do not flatten them! Compact each mound gently using your hands or spoon. For extra flavor, brush melted butter on top if desired.

Step 6: Bake the Crab Cakes

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 12–14 minutes. Watch for them to turn lightly browned on top and around the edges.

Step 7: Serve

Once baked, drizzle fresh lemon juice over the crab cakes. Serve warm alongside tartar sauce or cocktail sauce for dipping. Enjoy this delightful Maryland dish!

How to Serve Maryland Crab Cakes

Maryland Crab Cakes are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your crab cake experience.

With Fresh Lemon Wedges

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the crab cakes just before serving for a bright, zesty flavor that complements the sweetness of the crab meat.

Accompanied by Tartar Sauce

• Serve with creamy tartar sauce for dipping. This classic combination adds a tangy richness that pairs perfectly with the delicate flavors of the crab.

Paired with Cocktail Sauce

• For those who enjoy a bit of spice, cocktail sauce offers a sweet and tangy contrast that enhances the taste of your Maryland Crab Cakes.

Garnished with Fresh Parsley

• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. It not only looks appealing but also adds a hint of herbal flavor.

On a Bed of Greens

• Present your crab cakes on a bed of mixed greens or arugula. This adds texture and freshness, making it an attractive and light option.

With Pickled Vegetables

• Serve alongside pickled vegetables for an added crunch and tang. The acidity balances the richness of the crab cakes beautifully.

How to Perfect Maryland Crab Cakes

Creating perfect Maryland Crab Cakes involves attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your crab cakes are top-notch.

• Use Fresh Crab Meat: Always opt for fresh lump crab meat, as it provides the best flavor and texture compared to canned alternatives.
• Chill Before Baking: Allowing your mixture to chill helps it hold its shape during baking. This step is crucial for achieving perfectly formed cakes.
• Be Gentle When Mixing: Fold the ingredients carefully to maintain the integrity of the lump crab meat. Over-mixing can result in tough cakes.
• Don’t Skip the Old Bay: This iconic seasoning is essential in giving Maryland Crab Cakes their distinctive flavor. Adjust to your taste preference.
• Experiment with Filler: While saltine crackers are traditional, feel free to experiment with other binders like panko breadcrumbs for added crunch.
• Brush with Butter: For extra richness and golden-brown color, brush the tops of your cakes with melted butter before baking.

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Best Side Dishes for Maryland Crab Cakes

Crab cakes shine when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some excellent options that enhance this flavorful dish.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich crab cakes. Consider making it creamy or vinegar-based based on your preference.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a classic summer side that pairs well with seafood dishes like crab cakes. Grill or boil for best results.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes add comfort and richness that balance the flavors of Maryland Crab Cakes beautifully.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus brings a vibrant color and earthy taste that complements seafood perfectly.
5. Potato Salad: A classic potato salad can add heartiness to your meal while offering creamy textures that pair well with crab cakes.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad dressed in vinaigrette can lighten up your plate and provide a refreshing bite between mouthfuls of rich crab cake.
7. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables offer smoky flavors and vibrant colors, enhancing both nutrition and presentation.
8. Rice Pilaf: Flavorful rice pilaf can serve as a delightful base for placing your crab cakes, soaking up any juices from them or accompanying sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Maryland Crab Cakes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using stale cracker crumbs: Fresh saltine cracker crumbs are essential for the right texture. Always use fresh crackers to ensure your crab cakes hold together well.
• Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too vigorously can break down the delicate crab meat. Gently fold the mixture to keep the lumps intact, maximizing flavor and texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the mixture helps it firm up for baking. Don’t skip this step; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to ensure they hold their shape.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Old Bay seasoning is key, but everyone’s taste is different. Adjust seasoning according to your preference for a personalized flavor profile.
• Not preheating the oven: A hot oven is crucial for achieving golden edges. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking your crab cakes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover crab cakes in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Maryland Crab Cakes

• For unbaked crab cakes, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months.
• For baked crab cakes, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months as well.

Reheating Maryland Crab Cakes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Bake thawed crab cakes for 10–15 minutes or from frozen for 25–30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it. Cook each side of the crab cakes until heated through and crispy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Maryland Crab Cakes unique?

Maryland Crab Cakes are renowned for their rich flavor and minimal filler, highlighting fresh lump crab meat seasoned with Old Bay seasoning, which adds a distinct taste.

Can I use canned crab meat?

While fresh lump crab meat provides the best flavor and texture, you can use canned crab meat as a substitute if necessary. Just ensure it’s well-drained and flaked before adding it to your mix.

How do I know when Maryland Crab Cakes are done?

They should be golden brown on the edges and firm when gently pressed. Cooking time usually ranges from 12-14 minutes at high temperature.

What do I serve with Maryland Crab Cakes?

These delicious crab cakes pair well with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or your choice of sides like coleslaw or roasted vegetables.

Can I customize my Maryland Crab Cakes recipe?

Absolutely! You can adjust seasonings or add ingredients like diced peppers or chopped green onions for extra flavor. The recipe is versatile enough for personal touches!

Final Thoughts

Maryland Crab Cakes are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or main dish, this recipe offers a delightful experience that can be customized easily. Try making these delectable cakes today!