Print

Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe

Freshly prepared Maryland Crab Cakes on white plate

Classic Maryland Crab Cakes feature tender lump crab meat combined with subtle seasoning and lightly fried to a golden perfection, delivering an authentic taste of Chesapeake Bay.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lump crab meat
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/2 cup crushed saltine crackers
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, gently mix mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until combined.
  2. Fold in the crab meat, crushed crackers, and chopped parsley carefully to avoid breaking up the lumps.
  3. Form mixture into 6 equal-sized patties and place on a baking sheet. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to help them set.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry crab cakes for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
  5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with lemon wedges or tartar sauce.

Notes

For extra crispiness, chill the crab cakes before frying and avoid overhandling the crab meat to keep lumps intact.