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Crispy Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe Easy Homemade with Zesty Remoulade Sauce

crispy Maryland crab cakes - featured image

These crispy Maryland crab cakes feature a tender, flavorful crab interior with a golden crust, served with a zesty remoulade sauce that adds a perfect tangy zip. Quick and easy to make, they are perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh lump crab meat (about 450 grams)
  • ⅓ cup mayonnaise (80 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • ½ cup plain breadcrumbs (60 grams)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil or light olive oil for frying

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, gently combine 1 pound lump crab meat with ⅓ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley.
  2. Stir in 2 beaten large eggs and ½ cup plain breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful not to overmix to keep crab lumps intact. (Prep time: 10 minutes)
  3. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a patty about ¾-inch thick. Place on a parchment-lined tray or plate, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill.
  4. While the crab cakes chill, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon chopped capers, 1 tablespoon pickle relish, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, a few dashes of hot sauce, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika in a small bowl. Adjust salt and pepper to taste and chill until serving. (Prep time: 5 minutes)
  5. Pour about ¼ inch of vegetable or light olive oil into a large skillet and heat over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking, about 5 minutes (around 350°F).
  6. Carefully place chilled crab cakes into the hot oil, working in batches if needed. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, flipping gently with a spatula. (Cooking time: 8 minutes total)
  7. Transfer crab cakes to a cooling rack set over a baking sheet or paper towels to drain excess oil. Let rest for a minute to set the crust.
  8. Serve warm with a generous dollop of zesty remoulade sauce on top or on the side.

Notes

Handle crab meat gently to keep lumps intact. Chill crab cakes before frying to help them hold shape. Use medium heat to avoid burning or greasy cakes. Do not overcrowd the pan. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crackers. For a healthier option, bake at 375°F for 15 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

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