How to Cook Crab Cakes in the Oven: A Step-by-Step Guide

Crab cakes – those crispy, golden-brown patties bursting with juicy crab meat. They’re the epitome of seafood indulgence, often associated with fancy restaurants and seaside vacations. But what if I told you that you can easily recreate this delicacy in the comfort of your own kitchen? No need for deep frying or complicated techniques, we’re baking these beauties to perfection!

This recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring your crab cakes emerge from the oven with a delightful crispy crust and a tender, flavorful interior. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients to Make Irresistible Crab Cakes

Here’s what you’ll need to gather to make approximately 12 crab cakes:

• For the Crab Cakes:

  • 1 lb lump crab meat, picked over for any shell fragments
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs, plus extra for coating
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• For Serving (Optional):

  • Lemon wedges
  • Tartar sauce
  • Remoulade sauce

Ingredients for Oven-Baked Crab Cakes

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Medium-sized skillet (optional, for toasting bread crumbs)

Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking Crab Cakes to Perfection

1. Prepare the Oven & Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
2. Combine the Ingredients: In your large mixing bowl, gently combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, egg, panko bread crumbs, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the crab cakes tough.
3. Shape the Crab Cakes: Using your hands or a 1/4 cup measuring cup, form the crab mixture into patties about 3 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can lightly coat each patty with additional panko bread crumbs.
4. Arrange & Bake: Place the crab cakes onto your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and heated through.
5. Serve & Enjoy: Once baked, carefully remove the crab cakes from the oven. Serve them hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a dollop of tartar sauce, or a drizzle of remoulade sauce.

Perfectly Golden Brown Crab Cakes Baking

Tips & Tricks for the Best Oven-Baked Crab Cakes

• Use Fresh Crab Meat: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh lump crab meat if you can find it. If not, canned crab meat will work, just make sure to drain it well.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the crab mixture will result in dense, rubbery crab cakes. Gently combine the ingredients until just combined.
• Chill the Mixture: For easier handling and to help the crab cakes hold their shape better, consider chilling the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before forming the patties.
• Toast the Panko: For an extra layer of crunch, toast the panko bread crumbs in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly golden brown before adding them to the crab mixture.
• Internal Temperature: To ensure the crab cakes are cooked through, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

FAQs About Cooking Crab Cakes in the Oven

Q: Can I freeze crab cakes?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked crab cakes for up to 2 months. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To bake from frozen, add a few minutes to the baking time.

Q: What can I serve with crab cakes?
A: Crab cakes are incredibly versatile! Serve them as an appetizer with a dipping sauce, or as a main course with sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or roasted vegetables.

Q: Can I use a different type of bread crumbs?
A: While panko bread crumbs create the crispiest crust, you can use regular bread crumbs, crushed crackers, or even almond flour as substitutes.

Delicious Crab Cakes Served with Lemon and Sauce

Give Oven-Baked Crab Cakes a Try!

Making crab cakes at home is easier than you might think, and the results are absolutely delicious. This oven-baked method delivers crispy, flavorful crab cakes that are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!

And if you’re looking for other ways to cook crab cakes, we’ve got you covered! Check out our guides on how to pan-fry crab cakes and even how to air-fry crab cakes for a healthier twist. Happy cooking!