What ingredients do I need to make crab cakes in the oven?
To make eight crab cakes, you will need 1 pound of lump crab meat, 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, 1 egg, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
How do I prepare the crab cakes?
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, Dijon mustard, parsley, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently fold in the lump crab meat, being careful not to break up the chunks. Mix everything until well combined.
Can I use canned crab meat instead of fresh lump crab meat?
Yes, you can use canned crab meat if fresh lump crab meat is not available. However, make sure to drain the canned crab meat thoroughly before using it in the recipe.
How do I shape the crab cakes?
Scoop a portion of the crab mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use your hands to shape the mixture into a round patty, about 3 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick. Repeat this process for the remaining crab mixture.
Can I refrigerate the crab cakes before baking them?
Yes, you can refrigerate the crab cakes for about 30 minutes before baking them. Chilling the crab cakes will help them hold their shape better during baking.
How do I bake the crab cakes?
Place the baking sheet with the crab cakes on the middle rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crab cakes are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also turn on the broiler for the last couple of minutes to give them an extra crispy finish.
Can I freeze the crab cakes for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the crab cakes before baking them. Place the shaped crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer the frozen crab cakes to airtight freezer bags. When you are ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
What are some serving suggestions for crab cakes?
Crab cakes are best served with a fresh salad, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a side of tartar sauce or remoulade. You can also place them on toasted buns to make delicious crab cake sliders.
Now that you know how to cook delicious crab cakes in the oven, you can enjoy this delectable seafood dish without the hassle of frying. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, these oven-baked crab cakes are sure to satisfy your seafood cravings.