Name: Easy and Flavorful Crab Cakes with a Hint of Cheddar
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound cooked crab meat, flaked; 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs; 1/4 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

why make this recipe

Crab cakes are a delightful dish that combines the sweet, tender meat of crab with savory ingredients, making them a crowd favorite. These Easy and Flavorful Crab Cakes with a Hint of Cheddar bring an extra layer of deliciousness with the addition of sharp cheddar cheese. The bright lemon sauce adds a refreshing touch that lifts the flavor even more, making these crab cakes perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

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how to make Easy and Flavorful Crab Cakes with a Hint of Cheddar

Ingredients:

1 pound cooked crab meat, flaked
1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lemon Butter Drizzle:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions:

In a medium bowl, gently combine the flaked crab meat, panko bread crumbs, grated cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, lightly beaten egg, Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix carefully to keep some texture in the crab meat.
Form the mixture into 6-8 equal-sized patties.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Carefully place the crab cakes in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
While the crab cakes are cooking, prepare the Lemon Butter Drizzle. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley (if using). Remove from heat.
Serve the cooked crab cakes immediately, drizzled generously with the lemon butter sauce.

how to serve Easy and Flavorful Crab Cakes with a Hint of Cheddar

Serve these crab cakes hot with the lemon butter drizzle on top. They pair nicely with a simple salad or some roasted vegetables. You can also add a side of tartar sauce or a fresh coleslaw for extra flavor and texture.

how to store Easy and Flavorful Crab Cakes with a Hint of Cheddar

If you have leftover crab cakes, let them cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or pop them in the oven at 350°F until hot.

tips to make Easy and Flavorful Crab Cakes with a Hint of Cheddar

Use fresh crab meat if possible for the best flavor.
Don’t overmix the ingredients to keep the crab meat texture intact.
Experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack, for a spicy kick.
If you prefer baked crab cakes, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

variation (if any)

Feel free to add other ingredients like diced bell peppers or green onions for extra flavor and texture. You can also substitute the cheddar cheese with a different cheese of your choice or leave it out altogether for a lighter version.

FAQs

Can I use canned crab meat instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned crab meat. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

Can I freeze the crab cakes?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked crab cakes. Place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve with crab cakes?
Crab cakes go well with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, or a light green salad. You can also serve them as appetizers with sauces.