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Crispy Crab Cakes

Category: Perfect Starters for Any Occasion

Cheddar crab cakes done in 25 mins. Yields 8-10 pieces. Great for snacks or main plates.
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Seram Rezepte
Updated on Wed, 30 Apr 2025 23:21:55 GMT
Golden Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Topping Pin
Golden Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Topping | recipesbytina.com

These irresistible crab cakes mix tender lump crab with tangy cheddar and flaky crackers, topped with a zesty lemon butter. The Old Bay adds that signature seafood kick, while herbs add freshness to every mouthful.

These crab cakes always show up at our family beach gatherings - adding cheddar was my mom's brilliant twist I've kept alive.

Essential Ingredients

Sweet lump crab meat delivers delicate flavor. Make sure to check for any shell bits

Tangy cheddar cheese brings a mouthwatering savory kick

Buttery crackers work as the perfect binder without making things heavy

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Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle Recipe | recipesbytina.com

Old Bay seasoning adds that must-have seafood taste

Fresh lemon cuts through the richness perfectly

Don't skimp on your crab meat - splurging for jumbo lump makes a world of difference if you can swing it.

Making Flawless Cakes

Careful Combining

Mix everything slowly to keep those beautiful crab chunks whole.

Good Structure

Give your mixture a quick rest so the patties stay together better.

Watch Your Heat

Stick with medium heat for that nice brown outside without burning.

Cook Throughout

Lightly flatten cakes as they cook so they heat evenly.

Final Touch

Add that warm lemony butter right before you serve.

Living by the Chesapeake Bay taught me one thing - the less filler you add, the more your seafood stands out.

Great Side Dishes

These go wonderfully with peppery arugula, fresh asparagus spears, or homemade slaw. Throw in some lemon slices and extra sauce on the side.

Taste Twists

Try mixing up your cheese choices, toss in some slowly cooked onions, or add sweet corn kernels while keeping the basic measurements the same.

Keeping Them Fresh

Raw patties stay good in the fridge for a day. Warm cooked ones back up in a pan to bring back that crispy edge.

Pro Tips

Double-check your crab for hidden shells

Shape your patties right before they hit the pan

Let them sit briefly after cooking

Easy Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle Recipe Pin
Easy Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle Recipe | recipesbytina.com

After tweaking this dish for ages, I've found that simple, top-notch ingredients make the most unforgettable crab cakes. Adding cheddar turns them from really good to absolutely amazing.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Which crab meat works best?
Go for lump crab meat to get the best flavor and texture combo.
→ Can I prep ahead of time?
Yep, assemble and chill in the fridge or store in the freezer.
→ What pairs well with them?
Try tartar sauce, a spicy mayonnaise dip, or a squeeze of lemon.
→ How do I stop them from falling apart?
Don’t overmix and press the patties firmly as you shape them.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Keep in the fridge for 2 days or freeze for up to a month.

Crispy Crab Cakes

Golden, cheesy crab cakes seasoned with Old Bay and topped with tangy lemon butter.

Preparation Time
15 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
25 mins


Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Cuisine Type: American

Yield: 8 Servings (8-10 crab cakes)

Dietary Preferences: Low Carb, Gluten-Free

What You'll Need

→ Crab Cakes

01 1 pound lump crab meat, double-check for shells
02 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
03 1/2 cup butter crackers, crushed
04 1 egg, large
05 1/4 cup mayo
06 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
07 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
08 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
09 1 tablespoon parsley, freshly chopped
10 Pinch of salt and a shake of pepper
11 2 tablespoons oil or butter for frying

→ Lemon Butter Drizzle

12 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
13 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
14 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
15 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Mix the crab, cheddar, crackers, egg, mayo, mustard, lemon juice, parsley, and Old Bay. Add salt and pepper sparingly.

Step 02

Gently press the mix into 8 to 10 small patties that don’t fall apart.

Step 03

Warm the butter or oil on medium heat in a pan. Cook patties 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 04

Stir together melted butter, lemon juice, parsley, and garlic powder, then pour over cooked patties.

Additional Notes

  1. Choose fresh lump crab meat for the best flavor.
  2. These can be made ahead, frozen, and cooked later.
  3. Great with a scoop of tartar sauce or a dollop of aioli.

Tools You'll Need

  • A big bowl for mixing
  • Large frying pan
  • A small bowl for the drizzle
  • Measuring tools

Allergy Information

Check every ingredient for potential allergens. Consult a healthcare professional for concerns.
  • Includes shellfish
  • Has dairy ingredients
  • Contains eggs

Nutrition Info (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes and don’t replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 210
  • Fats: ~
  • Carbohydrates: ~
  • Proteins: ~