Maryland Crab Cakes

This Maryland Crab Cakes recipe is a delightful treat that captures the essence of coastal cuisine. With fresh lump crab meat as the star ingredient and minimal filler, these crab cakes are both light and bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a family dinner, a festive gathering, or a simple weeknight meal, Maryland Crab Cakes make for a versatile dish that everyone will love.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Crab Cakes:
• 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 Lemon Wedges
• Tartar Sauce
• Cocktail Sauce
• Fresh Parsley Garnish
• Over a Bed of Greens
• On a Bun
• 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 is the best type of crab meat for Maryland Crab Cakes?
• How do I know when my Maryland Crab Cakes are done?
• Can I make Maryland Crab Cakes ahead of time?
• What do I serve with Maryland Crab Cakes?
• Can I use other types of seasoning in my Maryland Crab Cakes?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: Using real lump crab meat makes these cakes taste incredible and authentic.
• Easy to Prepare: The simple steps mean you don’t need to be a chef to whip up this delicious dish.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them at parties, family dinners, or just because you crave something tasty.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the spice level with Old Bay seasoning to suit your preferences.
• Leftover Friendly: They store well in the fridge or freezer, so you can enjoy them later!

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will streamline your cooking process and help ensure your Maryland Crab Cakes turn out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Silicone spatula
• Rimmed baking sheet
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to comfortably mix all ingredients without spilling.
• Silicone spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients gently without breaking the crab meat.
• Rimmed baking sheet: Keeps the crab cakes secure while baking, preventing spills.

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

How to Make Maryland Crab Cakes

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. The egg
2. Mayonnaise
3. Chopped parsley
4. Dijon mustard
5. Worcestershire sauce
6. Old Bay seasoning
7. Fresh lemon juice
8. Salt

Ensure everything is well combined before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Fold in Crab Meat and Cracker Crumbs

Gently layer the fresh lump crab meat on top of your mixture. Then add in:
– Saltine cracker crumbs.

Using a silicone spatula or large spoon:
1. Carefully fold the mixture together.
2. Be gentle to avoid breaking up the lumps of crab meat.

Step 3: Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for:
– At least 30 minutes.
– Up to 1 day.

This chilling time helps the cakes hold their shape while they bake.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to:
– 450°F (232°C).

Generously grease a rimmed baking sheet with butter or nonstick spray, or line it with a silicone baking mat.

Step 5: Portion the Crab Cakes

Using a ½-cup measuring cup:
1. Divide the mixture into six mounds on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Do not flatten; use your hands or spoon to gently compact each mound.
3. For added flavor, brush each mound with melted butter if desired.

Step 6: Bake the Crab Cakes

Bake in your preheated oven for:
– 12–14 minutes,
until tops and edges are lightly browned.

Step 7: Serve

Drizzle warm crab cakes with fresh lemon juice before serving. They pair wonderfully with tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or any favorite side dishes.

Enjoy these scrumptious Maryland Crab Cakes at any occasion!

How to Serve Maryland Crab Cakes

Maryland crab cakes are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you enjoy them as an appetizer or a main course, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

With Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges add a zesty touch. Squeeze over the crab cakes just before eating for enhanced flavor.

Tartar Sauce

• A classic pairing, tartar sauce provides a creamy and tangy contrast to the crab’s sweetness. Serve it on the side for dipping.

Cocktail Sauce

• For those who enjoy a bit of spice, cocktail sauce pairs well with crab cakes. Its bold flavors complement the sweetness of the crab meat perfectly.

Fresh Parsley Garnish

• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top of the crab cakes for a burst of color and added freshness. This also enhances presentation.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Serve Maryland crab cakes on a bed of mixed greens or arugula. The slight bitterness of the greens balances nicely with the rich flavor of the cakes.

On a Bun

• Transform your crab cake into a sandwich by placing it in a soft bun. Add some lettuce and tomato for a satisfying meal option.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Maryland Crab Cakes

To make sure your Maryland crab cakes are truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Crab Meat: Always opt for fresh lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture. Canned varieties often lack quality.

• Chill Before Baking: Allowing the mixture to chill helps maintain shape during baking and improves texture.

• Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold in ingredients to keep the lump crab meat intact. This ensures tender bites in every cake.

• Preheat Your Oven: A properly preheated oven helps achieve that perfect golden crust on your crab cakes.

• Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to adjust Old Bay seasoning or add spices according to your taste preference for extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for Maryland Crab Cakes

Pairing side dishes with Maryland crab cakes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the crab cakes.

2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements seafood beautifully. Grill or boil and serve it with butter for added flavor.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrients to your plate while adding earthy flavors.

4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers comfort and pairs well with seafood, making it an ideal side.

5. Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch and is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauces.

6. Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf serves as an excellent base that absorbs flavors from the dish without overpowering it.

7. Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette keeps things light and fresh alongside rich crab cakes.

8. French Fries: For a casual twist, serve crispy fries that provide crunch and satisfy those craving something hearty.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Maryland Crab Cakes can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can hinder your results.

• Using low-quality crab meat: Always opt for fresh lump crab meat. Canned or imitation crab can compromise the flavor and texture of your cakes.
• Overmixing the ingredients: Gently fold the crab and crumbs into the mixture. Overmixing can break the crab meat apart, leading to dense cakes instead of light ones.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the mixture helps it hold its shape during baking. Don’t rush this step; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• Not preheating the oven properly: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 450°F (232°C) before baking. This guarantees even cooking and a nice golden crust.
• Flattening the cake mounds: When portioning, keep the mounds rounded. Flattened cakes may dry out or lose their shape while baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Maryland Crab Cakes in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Maryland Crab Cakes

• For unbaked cakes, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months.
• Baked and cooled crab cakes can also be frozen. Thaw before reheating.

Reheating Maryland Crab Cakes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use low power to avoid drying out. Heat each cake for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, and add a little oil. Cook each crab cake for about 3-4 minutes on each side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Maryland Crab Cakes that might help enhance your cooking experience.

What is the best type of crab meat for Maryland Crab Cakes?

Fresh lump crab meat is ideal for Maryland Crab Cakes, providing the best texture and flavor.

How do I know when my Maryland Crab Cakes are done?

They should be golden brown on top and edges after baking for about 12-14 minutes at 450°F.

Can I make Maryland Crab Cakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to a day in advance by chilling them in the refrigerator before baking.

What do I serve with Maryland Crab Cakes?

They pair wonderfully with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or cocktail sauce for dipping.

Can I use other types of seasoning in my Maryland Crab Cakes?

While Old Bay seasoning is traditional, you can experiment with different spices or herbs according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Maryland Crab Cakes are not just a regional favorite; they are versatile enough to fit any occasion. Their light texture and rich flavor make them a hit at gatherings or as a comforting meal at home. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or serving options. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!