Name: Maryland Style Crab Cakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Ingredients: 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat, picked over for shells; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 large egg; 10 saltine crackers, finely crushed; 2 tbsp butter or neutral oil, for frying

Golden, crispy on the outside, and tenderly rich with jumbo lump crab on the inside—Maryland Style Crab Cakes are a coastal classic that never go out of style. This beloved dish brings the bold, briny flavor of the sea to your plate without overpowering it with fillers or fluff. Each bite is pure crab joy, enhanced by a subtle blend of herbs and spices that lets the seafood shine.

Perfect for special occasions or a breezy summer dinner, these crab cakes are easy to make yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Whether you’re pairing them with a zesty remoulade, nestling them into a soft bun, or topping a vibrant salad, they’re bound to become a repeat favorite.

What Kind of Crab Meat Should I Use?

For truly authentic Maryland crab cakes, opt for jumbo lump crab meat. It gives the cakes that signature texture with big, meaty bites of crab. You can blend it slightly with backfin if needed, but avoid shredded varieties which don’t hold their form or flavor as well.

Ingredients for the Maryland Style Crab Cakes

Jumbo Lump Crab Meat – The star of the show. Use high-quality, fresh or pasteurized crab meat.

Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and helps bind the mixture without being too heavy.

Dijon Mustard – Brings a tangy depth that lifts the flavor of the crab.

Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami and complexity to the base.

Old Bay Seasoning – A must-have spice blend for Maryland seafood recipes.

Fresh Parsley – Gives a pop of color and freshness.

Egg – Essential for binding the cakes together.

Saltine Crackers – Crushed finely, they act as a delicate binder without taking over the texture.

Butter or Oil – For pan-frying to golden perfection.

How To Make the Maryland Style Crab Cakes

Step 1: Prep the Crab

Gently pick through the crab meat to remove any shell fragments, being careful not to break up the lumps.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, chopped parsley, and the egg until fully blended.

Step 3: Fold Everything Together

Add the crab meat and crushed saltine crackers to the mixture. Gently fold until combined, preserving the crab chunks.

Step 4: Shape the Cakes

Form the mixture into 6-8 cakes, pressing lightly so they hold together. Let them chill in the fridge for 30-60 minutes to firm up.

Step 5: Cook to Golden Brown

Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the crab cakes for 3-4 minutes per side until crisp and golden brown. Serve immediately.

How to Serve and Store Maryland Crab Cakes

Serve these crab cakes hot with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or remoulade. They pair beautifully with coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

To store, refrigerate cooked crab cakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture. You can also freeze uncooked patties between layers of parchment for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep crab cakes from falling apart?

Let the mixture chill before cooking and handle them gently when flipping.

Can I bake them instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 425°F for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Are saltines necessary?

You can substitute with panko or breadcrumbs, but saltines give the most authentic texture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. Shape them and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

What if I can’t find jumbo lump crab?

Use backfin as an alternative, or a mix of backfin and claw for a more budget-friendly option.

Want More Dinner Ideas with Seafood?

If you love these Maryland crab cakes, try some of these savory seafood dishes next:

Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce for a rich and indulgent treat.
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna that’s as decadent as it sounds.
Crawfish Fettuccine for a Cajun twist on classic comfort food.
Creamy Shrimp Chowder that warms you to the core.
Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp for a backyard BBQ hit.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try baking them? Add extra seasoning?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better!