Crab cakes with dipping sauce are tasty bites made from fresh crab meat mixed with bread crumbs, spices, and a little mayo. They’re crispy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for appetizers or a light main dish.
I like making these when friends visit; they’re simple to fry up and everyone loves the crunchy texture. I sometimes sneak in a dash of hot sauce for a bit of extra kick!
For a quick tip, serve them hot with a tangy dipping sauce and a squeeze of lemon—easy to enjoy and sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh crab meat: This is the main flavor and texture of the cakes. I recommend lump or jumbo crab for tender bites. If unavailable, canned crab works fine—just drain well to avoid excess moisture.
Mayonnaise: It helps keep the cakes moist and binds the ingredients. Light mayo is a good choice if you prefer fewer calories. Greek yogurt is a healthy substitute with a similar creamy texture.
Old Bay seasoning: This adds that classic seafood flavor. If you don’t have it, a pinch of paprika and celery salt can mimic it pretty well. Adjust seasonings to your taste.
Breadcrumbs: They give structure and crunch. Panko crumbs are crisper, but regular breadcrumbs work too. For gluten-free options, try crushed rice cereal or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Lemon juice: Brightens the flavor and enhances the seafood taste. Fresh lemon is best, but bottled juice works if fresh lemons aren’t available. Start with a small squeeze and add more to taste.
How do I shape and cook crab cakes without breaking them?
Use gentle hands when shaping the mixture into cakes—it helps prevent breaking. Chill the formed cakes for 15-20 minutes; this firms them up. When frying, don’t overcrowd the pan, and turn carefully to keep their shape.
How to Make Crab Cakes with Dipping Sauce?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crab Cakes:
- 1 pound lump crab meat
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 15 minutes, Cooking time: 10 minutes, Rest time: 10 minutes. Total time: around 35 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dipping Sauce
Mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, hot sauce (if using), Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Chill in the fridge while you make the crab cakes.
2. Make the Crab Cake Mixture
In a large bowl, combine crab meat, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, mustard, Old Bay, parsley, salt, and pepper. Gently fold to mix without breaking the crab meat.
3. Shape the Crab Cakes
Form the mixture into 4-6 small patties. Place them on a plate or tray. Chill for about 10 minutes to firm up before cooking.
4. Cook the Crab Cakes
Heat a skillet with some oil over medium heat. Cook the crab cakes for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and heated through.
5. Serve
Place the crab cakes on a plate. Serve with the chilled dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy your tasty crab cakes!
