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Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe

Close-up of freshly prepared Maryland Crab Cakes

Classic Maryland Crab Cakes featuring lump crab meat with minimal filler, seasoned perfectly and pan-fried until golden brown for a delicious taste of Chesapeake Bay.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lump crab meat
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, gently combine mayonnaise, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. Add the lump crab meat carefully, folding it into the mixture to avoid breaking up the lumps.
  3. Gently fold in the breadcrumbs until the mixture holds together when formed into cakes.
  4. Form the crab mixture into 6 equal-sized patties, about 3 inches in diameter.
  5. Place the formed patties on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  6. Heat butter and vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  7. Fry the crab cakes for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with lemon wedges.

Notes

For extra flavor, serve with a tangy remoulade sauce or tartar sauce. Avoid over-mixing to keep the crab lumps intact.