Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe

Maryland Crab Cakes are a classic dish that captures the essence of coastal cuisine. This Maryland Crab Cakes recipe features fresh lump crab meat combined with just the right amount of filler, resulting in a light and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a family dinner, or serving guests at a holiday gathering, these crab cakes will impress everyone at the table. With golden edges and a tender center, they offer an authentic taste of Maryland that you won’t want to miss!

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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 Recipe
• 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 Recipe
• With Fresh Lemon Wedges
• Paired with Tartar Sauce
• Accompanied by Cocktail Sauce
• Garnished with Fresh Parsley
• Served with Coleslaw
• With Grilled Vegetables
• How to Perfect Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe
• Reheating Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use canned crab meat instead?
• How do I make smaller versions of these crab cakes?
• What should I serve with Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe?
• Can I add other ingredients to the recipe?
• How long do these last in the freezer?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This Maryland Crab Cakes recipe requires minimal effort and can be made in advance.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of fresh ingredients and Old Bay seasoning creates a mouthwatering taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as appetizers, main dishes, or even in sandwiches.
• Health-Conscious Choice: Baked rather than fried, they are lighter without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for casual meals or elegant gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious Maryland Crab Cakes recipe, it’s important to gather the right tools and equipment. Having everything prepared will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Silicone spatula or large spoon
• Rimmed baking sheet
• Measuring cups
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Silicone spatula or large spoon: These tools help gently fold the crab meat without breaking it apart.
• Rimmed baking sheet: Keeps the crab cakes contained while baking and catches any drippings.

Ingredients

This Maryland Crab Cake recipe is packed with fresh lump crab meat and just the right amount of filler for the perfect texture. Baked in a hot oven for golden edges, they’re deliciously light and flavorful. Serve with lemon wedges, parsley, cocktail sauce, or tartar sauce for a true Maryland experience!

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 Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, mayonnaise, chopped parsley (or dried), 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 fresh lump crab meat on top of the mixture. Next, sprinkle in the saltine cracker crumbs. Using a silicone spatula or large spoon, carefully fold the mixture together. Be gentle to avoid breaking up the lump 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 one day. Chilling helps the cakes hold their shape during baking.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 5: Portion the Crab Cakes

Using a ½-cup measuring cup, divide the chilled mixture into six mounds on your prepared baking sheet. Do not flatten them; instead, use your hands or a spoon to gently compact each mound so they hold together well. For added flavor and richness, brush each mound with melted butter if desired.

Step 6: Bake the Crab Cakes

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12–14 minutes. They’re ready when tops are lightly browned and have crispy edges.

Step 7: Serve

Drizzle fresh lemon juice over warm crab cakes before serving. Pair them with tartar sauce or cocktail sauce as desired. Enjoy your delicious Maryland Crab Cakes!

How to Serve Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe

Serving Maryland crab cakes is an essential part of enjoying this iconic dish. The right accompaniments can elevate the flavors and provide a delightful dining experience.

With Fresh Lemon Wedges

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

Paired with Tartar Sauce

• A creamy tartar sauce adds richness and tang, making it a classic pairing that enhances the overall taste of the crab cakes.

Accompanied by Cocktail Sauce

• For those who enjoy a little kick, cocktail sauce offers a spicy contrast that works beautifully with the delicate flavors of Maryland crab cakes.

Garnished with Fresh Parsley

• Sprinkling chopped fresh parsley on top not only adds a pop of color but also provides a fresh herbal note that rounds out the dish.

Served with Coleslaw

• A crunchy coleslaw on the side adds texture and balances the richness of the crab cakes, making for a satisfying meal.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled seasonal vegetables provide a colorful and healthy side option, enhancing your plate with vibrant flavors and additional nutrients.

How to Perfect Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe

To achieve the best Maryland crab cakes, attention to detail is key. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is perfect every time.

• Use Fresh Crab Meat: Opt for high-quality fresh lump crab meat for superior flavor and texture. Avoid canned options if possible.
• Chill Before Baking: Letting your mixture chill in the refrigerator helps it hold its shape during baking, resulting in well-formed crab cakes.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in ingredients to keep lumps of crab intact. Overmixing can lead to dense crab cakes.
• Brush with Butter: For extra flavor and crispiness, brush the tops of crab cakes with melted butter before baking.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your crab cakes while they bake. Remove them when they are golden brown for optimal texture and taste.
• Experiment with Spices: Adjust Old Bay seasoning according to your heat preference. Adding more can enhance the flavors if you like it spicier.

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Best Side Dishes for Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe

Pairing sides with your Maryland crab cakes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements seafood beautifully and can be grilled or boiled for serving.
2. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad offers a hearty side that pairs perfectly with light crab cakes.
3. Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad provides freshness and crunch, balancing out the richness of crab cakes.
4. French Fries: Crispy fries add a comforting touch and are always a favorite alongside seafood dishes.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for an elegant side that absorbs any juices from the crab cakes.
6. Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus adds elegance and nutrition, enhancing your meal’s visual appeal and taste.
7. Creamy Grits: This Southern staple has a rich flavor that complements seafood nicely, especially when topped with herbs or cheese.
8. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans provide a hearty contrast to light crab cakes, making them an excellent choice for gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making crab cakes can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls that can affect your final product. Here are mistakes to steer clear of:

• Using Old Crab Meat: Always opt for fresh lump crab meat. Old crab can ruin the flavor and texture of your Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe.
• Overmixing Ingredients: Gently fold in the crab meat and cracker crumbs. Overmixing can break down the delicate lumps of crab, leading to a dense cake.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Don’t rush this step! Refrigerating the mixture for at least 30 minutes helps the cakes maintain their shape while baking.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 450°F (232°C). This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden-brown crust.
• Flattening Mounds: When portioning out the crab cakes, avoid flattening them. Keeping them mounded retains moisture and creates a better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover crab cakes in an airtight container.
• Keep them refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Freezing Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe

• Unbaked: Freeze portioned crab cakes for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
• Baked: Freeze baked and cooled crab cakes for up to 3 months. Thaw before warming in a preheated oven.

Reheating Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and warm for about 10–15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use short intervals to heat on medium power, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low with a little oil until warmed through, ensuring they do not burn.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe:

Can I use canned crab meat instead?

Yes, you can use canned crab meat, but for best results, fresh lump crab meat is recommended for flavor and texture.

How do I make smaller versions of these crab cakes?

To create smaller crab cakes, divide the mixture into 12 portions (¼ cup each) or 24 portions (2 tablespoons each) and adjust baking time slightly.

What should I serve with Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe?

These crab cakes pair well with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a fresh salad.

Can I add other ingredients to the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers or corn for added flavor and texture.

How long do these last in the freezer?

They can be frozen for up to 3 months, either unbaked or baked. Just ensure they are stored properly in airtight containers.

Final Thoughts

This Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. With its light texture and rich flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or serve it alongside different sauces. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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