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Lobster and crab come together in these tasty cakes with a crisp golden skin. They're easy to whip up and make a fancy yet cozy starter.
I served these at a summer get-together and was blown away when folks kept coming back for more. Now I lean on them whenever I want to wow guests without spending all day cooking.
Needed Ingredients
- Cooked crab meat: fresh, shredded or drained well for that delicate sweet seafood taste
- Cooked lobster meat: cut into small pieces to keep a tender, fancy feel
- Mayonnaise: keeps the cakes moist and creamy inside
- One large egg: beaten helps everything stick together
- Oil for frying: use a neutral one with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola
- Old Bay seasoning: key for classic seafood spice with a little heat
- Breadcrumbs: plain or panko to bind and add some light crunch
- Green onions: finely chopped for a fresh taste and splash of color
- Dijon mustard: gives a gentle tang and flavor boost
- Salt and black pepper: adjust to your taste to bring out the flavors
- Worcestershire sauce: adds a savory, umami depth
Step-by-Step Guide
- Mix It Together:
- Start by gently tossing lobster and crab in a big bowl, being careful not to mash them so the texture stays nice
- Then add breadcrumbs mayonnaise the egg Dijon mustard Worcestershire sauce green onions Old Bay seasoning salt and pepper
- Stir it all lightly just enough to mix but don't overdo it or the cakes will get tough
- Form The Patties:
- Shape the mixture into small patties about three inches wide and half an inch thick for even cooking
- Heat The Skillet:
- Pour some oil to cover the pan bottom and warm over medium heat until it shimmers but doesn’t smoke
- Cook The Cakes:
- Carefully lay the crab cakes in the hot oil and fry 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they turn a nice golden color and are heated through
- Flip gently using a spatula to keep them from falling apart
- Drain And Serve:
- Put the finished cakes on paper towels so they soak up extra oil
- Serve while warm with lemon wedges or your favorite sauce
I always think of warm beach days and family seafood feasts when I use Old Bay seasoning. Adding a touch of smoked paprika once gave these cakes a subtle smokiness that everyone loved.
How To Keep Them Fresh
Pop leftovers in an airtight container and chill for up to two days to keep them fresh
Heat gently in a nonstick pan on medium-low to warm them up and keep the outside crisp but inside moist
You can freeze uncooked cakes by laying them flat on a tray, then placing them in a freezer bag for up to a month to have handy meals
Mix It Up Options
Try swapping Dijon mustard with spicy brown or whole-grain mustard for a bit more flavor and texture
Add some finely chopped celery or bell pepper for crunch and fresh taste
Fresh herbs like parsley or tarragon make a great addition for a bright herbal note
Great Things To Serve With It
Put these next to a crunchy green salad dressed with lemon to cut through the richness
Pair with a light white like Sauvignon Blanc or a bubbly wine for a festive feel
Remoulade or tartar sauce work perfectly for an extra creamy tang
Bringing these lobster and crab cakes to a party always gets a great reaction. They're easy to make and feel like a tasty treat you want to share. They remind me of sunny days by the water and sharing good food with friends.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → Which seafood is best for these cakes?
Fresh or cooked lobster and crab meat work best to get a soft and tasty cake with a nice seafood flavor.
- → How do I keep patties from breaking while frying?
Mix things gently without overworking and use enough breadcrumbs so the cakes stay together when cooking.
- → What’s the best oil for frying these cakes?
A neutral oil like canola or vegetable with a high smoke point is great for a crisp and even cook.
- → Can I make the patties ahead of time?
You sure can. Shape them ahead and chill in the fridge for a few hours before frying to help them hold up better.
- → What sides go well with the crab and lobster cakes?
Simple salads, steamed veggies, or a tart dipping sauce go great and don’t overshadow the seafood flavors.