Name: The Best Easy Crab Cakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 43 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained and picked over for shells); 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 large egg; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 2 green onions, finely chopped; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; Salt and black pepper to taste; Olive oil or butter, for pan-frying

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These crab cakes are all about showcasing the crab. With just enough binding to hold them together, they’re light, flavorful, and let the natural sweetness of the crab meat shine. They come together in under 30 minutes, use basic ingredients, and are pan-fried for a crisp exterior without the mess of deep frying. Serve them with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or a creamy remoulade for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained and picked over for shells)
Mayonnaise
Dijon mustard
Worcestershire sauce
Old Bay seasoning
Lemon juice
Egg
Fresh parsley, chopped
Green onion, finely chopped
Panko breadcrumbs
Salt
Black pepper
Olive oil or butter, for pan-frying

Directions

In a large bowl, gently mix together the crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, egg, parsley, green onion, Old Bay, salt, and pepper.
Add the panko breadcrumbs and mix gently until the mixture holds together.
Form the mixture into 6–8 crab cakes, about ½ to ¾ inch thick.
Place the crab cakes on a plate, cover, and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to help them firm up.
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add crab cakes and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and serve warm with lemon wedges or your favorite sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 to 8 crab cakes.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 43 minutes

Variations

Baked Option: Bake crab cakes at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the mixture.
Southern Style: Add a little minced celery and bell pepper for a Cajun flair.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
Mini Crab Cakes: Form smaller patties for appetizers or party platters.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until crisp and heated through, or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Crab cakes can also be frozen raw or cooked. Freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw before cooking or reheating.

FAQs

Can I use canned crab meat?

Yes, just make sure it’s high-quality and well-drained. Look for lump or backfin crab meat.

Do I need to use fresh parsley?

Fresh is best for flavor, but dried parsley works in a pinch—use about 1 teaspoon.

Why are my crab cakes falling apart?

Make sure the mixture is chilled before cooking, and don’t skip the binder (egg and mayo). Also avoid overmixing.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, form the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.

What sauce goes best with crab cakes?

Tartar sauce, remoulade, aioli, or even a simple squeeze of lemon all pair well.

Can I bake instead of pan-fry?

Absolutely. Baking is a great hands-off method. Just lightly oil the baking sheet.

Can I air fry crab cakes?

Yes. Cook in a preheated air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Are these good for meal prep?

Yes, cooked crab cakes store and reheat well for a quick lunch or dinner.

Can I freeze uncooked crab cakes?

Yes, freeze them flat on a tray, then store in a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.

What kind of crab meat should I buy?

Lump crab meat is best for texture and flavor, but claw meat is more affordable and still tasty.

Conclusion

The Best Easy Crab Cakes are a simple yet elegant dish you can make anytime. With tender crab, zesty seasoning, and a golden crust, they deliver big flavor without the fuss. Whether served as an appetizer, a main course, or on a sandwich, these crab cakes are a surefire hit for any occasion.