Maryland Style Crab Cake

Name: Maryland Style Crab Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh lump crab meat; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning; 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; For the Sauce: 1/2 cup tartar sauce

Published: December 26, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Maryland Style Crab Cake

This incredible Maryland Style Crab Cake transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Maryland Style Crab Cake:

Fresh Lump Crab Meat: The star of the show! Look for high-quality crab meat without shells for the best flavor.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess and moisture to your cakes, helping everything stick together nicely.
Old Bay Seasoning: A must-have for authentic Maryland flavor—this blend of spices is what makes these cakes sing!
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to bind the mixture and add a delightful crunch when cooked.
Eggs: These will act as a binder to keep all those lovely ingredients together while baking.

For the Sauce:

Tartar Sauce: For serving, this tangy delight complements the richness of the crab cakes perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Maryland Style Crab Cake:

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by ensuring you have all your ingredients ready and at hand. This makes cooking smoother than a well-choreographed dance number.

Step 2: Mix Together

In a large bowl, gently fold together fresh lump crab meat, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, breadcrumbs, and eggs until fully combined. Be careful not to break up the crab meat too much; we want those glorious chunks!

Step 3: Form Those Cakes

Shape your mixture into patties about ¾ inch thick. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet while you heat things up.

Step 4: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that oven warms up, allow your formed crab cakes to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help them hold their shape better during cooking.

Step 5: Bake ‘Em Up

Once preheated, pop those cakes in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and heated through. Your kitchen will smell like heaven!

Step 6: Serve with Style

Transfer to plates and drizzle with tartar sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Don’t forget to garnish with lemon wedges for that added zing!

Now sit back and enjoy your homemade Maryland Style Crab Cake with pride! The rich flavors and crispy texture are bound to impress anyone lucky enough to grab a seat at your table.

You Must Know About Maryland Style Crab Cake

This showstopping Maryland Style Crab Cake delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by mixing your crab meat with spices and breadcrumbs for the best flavor fusion. While the mixture rests to marry those delicious flavors, preheat your skillet to a medium heat. Finally, pan-sear the cakes until golden brown on each side, creating a crispy outer layer.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to get creative! Swap out traditional Old Bay seasoning for your favorite seafood blend or add in a splash of hot sauce for some kick. You can also throw in chopped herbs like parsley or dill to amplify freshness.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through, ensuring they retain their delightful crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Maryland Style Crab Cake

This professional-quality Maryland Style Crab Cake relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

When I first served these Maryland Style Crab Cakes at a family gathering, my cousin practically declared me a culinary genius! His ecstatic reaction made me realize that good food truly brings people together and creates lasting memories.

FAQs

What is Maryland Style Crab Cake?

Maryland Style Crab Cake is a delicious seafood dish originating from the Chesapeake Bay region. It features lump crab meat, often mixed with mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, and a blend of seasonings. The key to an authentic Maryland Style Crab Cake lies in using high-quality crab meat and minimal fillers to highlight the sweet, delicate flavor of the crab. Typically, these cakes are pan-fried or baked until golden brown. They are a staple in Maryland cuisine and celebrated for their rich taste and satisfying texture.

How do you make Maryland Style Crab Cakes at home?

To make Maryland Style Crab Cakes at home, start by combining fresh lump crab meat with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and breadcrumbs. Gently mix the ingredients without breaking the crab meat too much. Form the mixture into patties and refrigerate them for about 30 minutes to set. Then, cook them in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown on both sides. Serve with tartar sauce or lemon wedges for a delightful meal.

What can I serve with Maryland Style Crab Cakes?

Maryland Style Crab Cakes pair beautifully with various side dishes. Consider serving them alongside coleslaw for a refreshing crunch or a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables or corn on the cob also complement the flavors well. For a classic touch, enjoy your crab cakes with cocktail sauce or lemon aioli for dipping. These accompaniments enhance the dining experience while keeping the focus on the crab cakes themselves.

Can I freeze Maryland Style Crab Cakes?

Yes, you can freeze Maryland Style Crab Cakes! To do this, form your crab cakes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to cook, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before frying or baking as desired. Freezing helps preserve their flavors and textures for future enjoyment without compromising quality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Maryland Style Crab Cakes are a beloved dish known for their rich flavor and luxurious texture. By using high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques, you can easily recreate this classic at home. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, these crab cakes promise to delight your guests and family alike. Don’t hesitate to explore various side dishes that enhance your dining experience with Maryland Style Crab Cake as the star of your meal.