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Plate of easy Maryland style crab cakes made with Old Bay seasoning and fresh crab meat.

Easy Crab Cakes — Maryland Style Old Bay

Crispy on the outside and soft in the middle, these crab cakes are packed with Old Bay seasoning and perfect for a special dinner without the fuss.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Dinner
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crab Cakes
  • 1 pound lump crab meat Use lump or jumbo lump for best texture.
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 large egg Acts as a binder.
  • 1/2 cup crushed crackers or panko Crackers help hold the crab together without adding too much filler.
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley For freshness.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice A squeeze of lemon enhances flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning Adjust to personal preference.
  • 1 tablespoon oil or butter For pan-searing.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, mix crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, egg, crushed crackers or panko, parsley, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning gently with a fork.
  2. Form the mixture into patties.
  3. Place patties on a plate, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking
  1. Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add crab cakes to the skillet and cook until golden brown on each side, about 3-5 minutes per side.

Notes

For the best texture, use lump or jumbo lump crab meat. Chill the patties before cooking to help them hold together. These can also be frozen uncooked for future meals.