11 Crab Cake Recipes That Are Crispy Outside, Tender Inside

There’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly cooked crab cake—golden and crisp on the outside, yet tender and flaky on the inside, with sweet, succulent crab meat shining as the star. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party, planning a coastal-inspired feast, or just craving a taste of the ocean, a well-made crab cake is always a showstopper. But getting that ideal balance of texture and flavor? That’s where the magic happens.

This roundup brings you 11 irresistible crab cake recipes that deliver that crave-worthy contrast in every bite. From classic Maryland-style cakes with a hint of Old Bay seasoning to creative twists like spicy Cajun remoulade or buttery lemon-dill versions, there’s a recipe here for every taste. We’ve included tips on choosing the best crabmeat (lump, jumbo lump, or backfin?), the secret to a crispy sear without drying them out, and even gluten-free and keto-friendly options so no one misses out.

Imagine serving these beauties alongside a tangy homemade tartar sauce, a zesty aioli, or simply with a squeeze of fresh lemon. Whether you pan-fry, bake, or even air-fry them, these crab cakes promise restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen. So grab your mixing bowl, a little patience (because gentle handling is key!), and let’s dive into these foolproof recipes that will make you the seafood hero of any meal.

Mediterranean Crab Cakes

Mediterranean crab cakes bring a delightful twist to the classic seafood dish. Infused with fresh herbs, vibrant spices, and a hint of tanginess, these cakes deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. They’re crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy inside, making them a perfect appetizer or main dish.

Making these crab cakes is straightforward and rewarding. You just mix your ingredients, form the cakes, and pan-fry them until golden brown. Pair them with a zesty sauce for an extra kick, and you have a dish that impresses without much fuss!

Ingredients

• 1 pound lump crab meat
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the crab meat, breadcrumbs, parsley, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, egg, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Form the mixture into patties, about 1 inch thick.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the crab cakes and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
5. Serve warm with a dipping sauce of your choice, like a lemon aioli or tzatziki.

Lemon Herb Crab Cakes

Lemon Herb Crab Cakes are a delightful treat that brings together sweet crab meat and zesty lemon. The vibrant flavors of fresh herbs enhance the dish, resulting in a light, refreshing bite. These crab cakes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, making them a perfect choice for a cozy dinner or an elegant appetizer.

Making these crab cakes is simple and doesn’t require any fancy techniques. With just a few ingredients and a bit of mixing, you’ll create a dish that impresses everyone at the table!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh crab meat, picked over for shells
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, gently mix crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, cilantro, salt, and pepper until combined.
2. Form the mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to help them firm up.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the crab cakes, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. Transfer the cooked crab cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Asian-Inspired Crab Cakes

Asian-inspired crab cakes bring a delightful twist to traditional recipes. Infused with flavors like ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, these cakes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a delicious choice for any occasion. They’re simple to prepare, combining fresh crab meat with fragrant herbs and spices, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and full of zest.

The addition of sesame seeds and a tangy dipping sauce enhances the taste, making each bite a burst of flavor. Perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, these crab cakes will impress your family and friends with their unique flavors!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh crab meat
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, green onions, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, beaten egg, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Coat each patty with sesame seeds.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the crab cakes and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Baked Crab Cakes with Panko Crust

Baked crab cakes with a panko crust are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of fresh crab meat with a crispy exterior. They are easy to make, perfect for gatherings, and can be served as an appetizer or main dish. The panko breadcrumbs create a satisfying crunch, complementing the tender, flavorful filling inside.

This dish is not only mouthwatering but also a healthier alternative to fried crab cakes since they are baked instead. You can customize the flavors by adding your favorite herbs and spices, making it a versatile recipe that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh lump crab meat
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for brushing

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine crab meat, 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, green onions, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to combine, being careful not to break up the crab too much.
3. Shape the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Press the remaining panko breadcrumbs onto the tops of the patties and brush lightly with olive oil.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crab cakes are golden brown and heated through.
6. Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon over the top or your favorite dipping sauce.

Corn and Crab Fritters

Corn and crab fritters are a delightful combination of sweet corn and tender crab meat, creating a dish that’s crispy on the outside and soft inside. The blend of flavors is light and refreshing, perfect for appetizers or a cozy meal at home.

This recipe is easy to whip up, making it ideal for both novice cooks and experienced chefs. The fritters can be served with a dip or eaten on their own, which makes them versatile for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh corn kernels
• 1 cup lump crab meat
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornmeal
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine corn, crab meat, flour, cornmeal, egg, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon.
3. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them plain!

Classic Maryland Crab Cakes

Classic Maryland crab cakes are a true delight, bringing the taste of the Chesapeake Bay right to your table. These cakes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, filled with sweet, succulent crab meat that shines in every bite. They are simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients that blend harmoniously to create a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

Pair these crab cakes with a tangy remoulade or a squeeze of fresh lemon for an extra flavor kick. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal at home, these crab cakes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh lump crab meat
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prep the Mixture: In a large bowl, gently mix together the crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, green onions, and season with salt and pepper.
2. Form the Cakes: Shape the mixture into patties, about 1 inch thick. You can refrigerate these for about 30 minutes to help them hold together while frying.
3. Fry the Cakes: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the crab cakes and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve: Drain on paper towels and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of lemon wedges.

Spicy Cajun Crab Cakes

These Spicy Cajun Crab Cakes pack a flavorful punch while maintaining a delightful tenderness inside. The blend of spices gives them a fiery kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the crab meat. Perfect for a quick dinner or a fancy appetizer, these cakes are surprisingly simple to whip up, making them a favorite for both novice and experienced cooks.

With a crispy exterior and a tender, seasoned filling, these crab cakes are sure to impress. Serve them with a zesty sauce for a mouthwatering experience that will bring the taste of Louisiana right to your table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lump crab meat
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, gently mix together the crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, green onions, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until just combined.
2. Form the mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches wide. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the crab cakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Cheesy Crab Cakes with Jalapeño

These cheesy crab cakes combine the delicate flavors of crab with a spicy kick from jalapeño. The result is a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with a tender, cheesy interior. Perfect as a light meal or a party appetizer, they’re surprisingly simple to whip up.

The rich, creamy cheese melds perfectly with the sweet crab and zesty jalapeños, creating a delightful taste experience. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, these crab cakes are sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh crab meat
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup diced jalapeño (adjust for spice preference)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine crab meat, breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, jalapeño, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are well combined.
2. Form the Cakes: Shape the mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Place them on a tray and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to help them firm up.
3. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat a thin layer of oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the crab cakes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
4. Cook: Fry each side for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Serve: Enjoy the crab cakes hot, garnished with extra jalapeños or alongside a fresh salad.

Sweet Potato Crab Cakes

Sweet Potato Crab Cakes are a delightful twist on the classic seafood dish. Combining the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with tender crab meat creates a flavor that’s both comforting and exciting. These cakes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a perfect appetizer or meal option.

This recipe is simple to follow, allowing you to whip up a tasty dish in no time. With a few fresh ingredients and some seasoning, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
• 1 cup lump crab meat
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and chop sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil or steam them until tender, then mash until smooth.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, crab meat, breadcrumbs, green onions, beaten egg, mustard, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the Cakes: Shape the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
4. Fry the Cakes: In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add the crab cakes and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Serve: Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or a squeeze of lemon.

Crab Cakes with Mango Salsa

Crab cakes with mango salsa are a delightful combination of flavors that will impress anyone at your table. The crispy exterior gives way to tender, juicy crab meat, while the fresh mango salsa adds a sweet and tangy contrast that brightens every bite. This recipe is simple to follow, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced cooks.

The vibrant mango salsa, with hints of lime and cilantro, complements the richness of the crab cakes perfectly. It’s an easy dish that’s sure to be a hit for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lump crab meat
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, beaten egg, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently until combined.
2. Form the mixture into patties, about 2 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the crab cakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
4. While the crab cakes are cooking, prepare the mango salsa by mixing diced mango, lime juice, cilantro, and salt in a small bowl.
5. Serve the crab cakes hot, topped with the mango salsa. Enjoy!

Crab Cake Sliders

Crab cake sliders are a delightful twist on the classic crab cake, offering a perfect bite-sized treat that’s crispy on the outside and tender within. These sliders are not just delicious; they’re also simple to make, making them ideal for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.

The combination of fresh crab meat, flavorful seasonings, and a light breading creates a satisfying flavor that pairs wonderfully with your favorite sauces. Serve them on soft slider buns with a drizzle of sauce and a crunchy lettuce leaf for added texture. They’re sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh crab meat
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Slider buns
• Lettuce leaves
• Hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, green onions, and the beaten egg. Mix gently to combine, being careful not to break up the crab meat too much.
2. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Form the mixture into small patties, about the size of your slider buns.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil. Cook the crab cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
4. Assemble the sliders by placing a crab cake on each slider bun, topping with lettuce and a drizzle of hot sauce if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your tasty crab cake sliders!

Final Thoughts
A great crab cake is all about simplicity and quality—letting the sweet, delicate crab meat take center stage while achieving that perfect crispy-tender contrast. With these 11 recipes, you’ll have everything you need to master this seafood classic, whether you prefer traditional flavors or bold new twists. So roll up your sleeves, get your skillet hot, and prepare to impress with crab cakes that are crunchy on the outside, melt-in-your-mouth tender inside, and utterly unforgettable. Time to get cracking!