Simple and Delicious 5-Ingredient Crab Cakes Recipe
Craving a seafood dish that’s both easy and packed with flavor? These 5-ingredient crab cakes are the answer! With minimal fuss and maximum taste, they’re perfect for a quick dinner or an impressive appetizer at your next gathering.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a golden, crispy crab cake, bursting with the sweet and delicate flavors of fresh crab. These cakes are seasoned simply, letting the quality of the crab shine through. You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up this delightful dish!
Effortless Preparation
Creating crab cakes can be a straightforward process that results in a flavorful dish with minimal ingredients.
Start by gathering fresh crab meat and breadcrumbs, which serve as the foundation of your cakes.
Mix in a beaten egg, mayonnaise, and a touch of Old Bay seasoning to enhance the flavor profile. This simple combination highlights the crab’s natural sweetness.
Forming the Perfect Cakes
Once your mixture is prepared, the next step involves shaping it into cakes. Aim for patties around one inch thick to achieve the ideal texture.
Feel free to adjust the size according to your preference, whether making larger cakes for a main dish or smaller ones for appetizers.
For the best results, allow the formed cakes to chill in the refrigerator. This helps them maintain their shape during cooking.
Cooking to Perfection
When it’s time to cook, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a touch of oil.
Carefully place the chilled crab cakes in the pan and let them cook for about four to five minutes on each side. The goal is to achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior.
This cooking method locks in moisture, ensuring a tender and delightful bite with every forkful.
Serving Suggestions
Crab cakes are versatile and can be served in various ways, making them suitable for different occasions.
For a classic touch, garnish them with fresh parsley and lemon wedges to enhance their visual appeal and add a burst of freshness.
They pair wonderfully with various dipping sauces, ranging from a simple tartar sauce to a zesty remoulade.
Nutritional Benefits
These crab cakes not only satisfy hunger but also provide a balance of nutrients.
Each cake contains approximately 210 calories, which makes them a lighter option for a meal or appetizer.
With a good amount of protein and healthy fats, they can be a great addition to a well-rounded diet.
Creating a Cozy Atmosphere
The rustic presentation of crab cakes can enhance the dining experience. Serving them on a wooden table adds warmth and an inviting feel.
Consider pairing your crab cakes with a light salad or a chilled beverage for a complete meal.
This presentation, combined with the delicious flavor of the cakes, can turn any meal into a special occasion.
Effortless 5-Ingredient Crab Cakes

These crab cakes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a delightful treat for any seafood lover. The combination of fresh crab meat, breadcrumbs, and a hint of seasoning creates a dish that’s both light and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix together the crab meat, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, mayonnaise, and Old Bay seasoning until well incorporated.
- Form Cakes: Shape the mixture into patties, roughly 1 inch thick. You can make them as large or small as you prefer.
- Chill: Place the crab cakes on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking.
- Cook: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Cook the crab cakes for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Enjoy your crab cakes hot, with a squeeze of lemon or your favorite dipping sauce.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4 cakes
- Calories: 210kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 16g