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Maryland-Style Crab Cakes Recipe

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Maryland-Style Crab Cakes are a beloved coastal classic made with sweet lump crab meat, minimal fillers, and Old Bay seasoning. They’re crisp on the outside and tender and flavorful on the inside.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lump crab meat, picked over for shells
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter or oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, gently mix crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper until just combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into 6–8 patties, about 1 inch thick. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
  3. Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  4. Cook crab cakes for 3–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Serve warm with lemon wedges and tartar sauce or remoulade if desired.

Notes

  • Use the freshest lump crab meat available for best flavor and texture.
  • Refrigerating before cooking helps them stay intact during frying.
  • Can be baked at 400°F for 12–15 minutes if preferred.

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