Jimmy’s Famous Seafood Crab Cake Recipe

Growing up near the Chesapeake Bay, I’ve always been obsessed with crab cakes, but nothing beats the magic of Jimmy’s Famous Seafood crab cake recipe. These golden, jumbo lump-packed beauties are a Maryland legend, bursting with sweet crab flavor and just the right amount of seasoning. Whether you’re a local or dreaming of a coastal feast, this recipe brings Jimmy’s iconic dish straight to your kitchen.

This article guides you through every step to recreate these award-winning crab cakes at home. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you’ll impress family and friends with a dish that feels like a trip to Baltimore’s waterfront. Let’s dive into why this recipe is so special and how you can nail it.

Why People Love Jimmy’s Famous Seafood Crab Cakes

Jimmy’s crab cakes are a Maryland treasure, loved for their colossal lump crab meat. They use minimal filler, letting the crab shine in every bite.

The recipe balances rich flavors with a crispy, golden crust. Fans rave about the perfect blend of Old Bay and tangy mustard.

These crab cakes are versatile—great for dinners, parties, or special occasions. Their authentic Chesapeake Bay taste keeps people coming back.

Jimmy’s has been perfecting this dish since 1974, earning global praise. Their crab cakes even starred on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.”

Ingredients for Jimmy’s Famous Seafood Crab Cakes

To make four 8-ounce crab cakes, gather these simple ingredients. Fresh, high-quality crab meat is the star of the show.

• 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or pasteurized, preferably Maryland blue crab)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for baking)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Check your crab meat for shell fragments before starting. Fresh crab from a trusted seafood market works best.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy equipment to make these crab cakes. Here’s what you’ll use:

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula or spoon
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

A gentle touch is key when mixing to keep the crab lumps intact. Line your baking sheets to prevent sticking.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Follow these steps to create crab cakes that rival Jimmy’s Famous Seafood. Each step is designed for success.

Step 1: Prepare the Wet Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, dry mustard, Old Bay, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until smooth and creamy. This binds the crab cakes while adding flavor.

Step 2: Add the Breadcrumbs

Stir the panko breadcrumbs into the wet mixture. Mix until it forms a thick, creamy consistency. The breadcrumbs help hold the cakes together without overpowering the crab.

Step 3: Fold in the Crab Meat

Place the crab meat in a large bowl. Gently fold the wet mixture into the crab, being careful not to break the lumps. Mix until the crab is just coated.

Step 4: Shape the Crab Cakes

Divide the mixture into four equal portions, about 8 ounces each. Gently shape into thick patties, keeping them loose to maintain texture. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Chill the Crab Cakes

Refrigerate the crab cakes for 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape during cooking. Cover loosely with plastic wrap.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F while the crab cakes chill. Ensure the rack is in the middle for even cooking. Line another baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 7: Bake the Crab Cakes

Brush the crab cakes lightly with melted butter. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. The butter adds a rich, crispy finish.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Remove the crab cakes from the oven and let them rest for 2 minutes. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for a fresh zing.

Tips for Perfect Crab Cakes

These tips will elevate your crab cakes to Jimmy’s Famous Seafood quality. Keep them in mind for the best results.

• Use Jumbo Lump Crab Meat: It gives the authentic texture and flavor Jimmy’s is known for.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the ingredients to preserve the crab’s delicate lumps.
• Dry the Crab Meat: Pat it with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better binding.
• Chill Before Cooking: This prevents the cakes from falling apart in the oven.
• Taste the Seasoning: Adjust Old Bay slightly if you prefer a bolder or milder flavor.
• Avoid Overcooking: Bake just until golden to keep the crab tender and juicy.

For more crab cake inspiration, check out Jimmy’s Famous Seafood for their award-winning dishes.

Nutritional Information

Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one 8-ounce crab cake. Values are approximate and depend on exact ingredients used.

This info assumes standard ingredient brands. Check labels for precise values if you’re tracking nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Jimmy’s crab cakes shine with these serving ideas. They’re perfect for any occasion.

1. Classic Style: Serve with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of Old Bay for tradition.
2. Side Dishes: Pair with coleslaw, roasted asparagus, or a baked potato for a hearty meal.
3. Sandwich Option: Place on a brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade for a crab cake slider.
4. Appetizer Twist: Make smaller patties for bite-sized appetizers at parties.
5. Salad Topper: Add a crab cake to a fresh arugula salad with a light vinaigrette.

These ideas bring out the crab cakes’ rich flavors. Mix and match to suit your taste.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Proper storage keeps your crab cakes fresh and delicious. Follow these guidelines for leftovers.

• Refrigerate: Store cooked crab cakes in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freeze: Wrap uncooked patties tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or sear in a skillet for 1 minute per side. Avoid microwaving to prevent a rubbery texture.

Always cook thawed crab cakes within 24 hours. This ensures the best flavor and safety.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe captures the essence of Jimmy’s Famous Seafood crab cakes with minimal filler. The jumbo lump crab meat delivers a sweet, buttery taste.

Old Bay, mustard, and Worcestershire add depth without overwhelming the crab. Baking instead of frying keeps the texture light and crispy.

The method is straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks. You’ll feel like a pro with every golden crab cake you serve.

Summary

Jimmy’s Famous Seafood crab cake recipe is a Maryland classic you can recreate at home. With jumbo lump crab meat, simple seasonings, and a foolproof baking method, these crab cakes are crispy, flavorful, and packed with crab. This 1800-word guide covers everything from ingredients to serving suggestions, ensuring success for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering, these crab cakes bring Chesapeake Bay magic to your table. Save this recipe for your next seafood craving.

FAQ Section

What kind of crab meat is best for this recipe?
Jumbo lump crab meat from Maryland blue crabs is ideal. It gives the authentic texture and flavor.

Can I fry these crab cakes instead of baking?
Yes, deep fry at 325°F until golden brown. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 140°F.

How do I prevent crab cakes from falling apart?
Chill them for 30 minutes before cooking. Handle gently when shaping and mixing.

Can I make these crab cakes ahead of time?
Shape and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before baking. Freeze for longer storage.

What’s a good substitute for Old Bay seasoning?
Use a seafood or Cajun seasoning blend. Adjust salt to taste.

Can I use canned crab meat?
Fresh or pasteurized crab meat is best. Canned may work but can affect texture and flavor.

Jimmy’s Famous Seafood Crab Cake Recipe

Saima

Jimmy’s Famous Seafood crab cake recipe is a Maryland classic, delivering crispy, golden crab cakes packed with jumbo lump crab meat. This authentic dish uses minimal filler to let the sweet crab shine, balanced with Old Bay and tangy mustard. Perfect for dinners or special occasions, it’s easy to make at home. The recipe yields four 8-ounce crab cakes, baked to perfection. With simple ingredients and clear steps, it brings Chesapeake Bay flavor to your table. Save this for your next seafood feast.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Appetizer, Main dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4 Servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula or spoon
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat fresh or pasteurized, preferably Maryland blue crab
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter for baking
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the Wet Mixture

• In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, dry mustard, Old Bay, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until smooth and creamy. This binds the crab cakes while adding flavor.

Step 2: Add the Breadcrumbs

• Stir the panko breadcrumbs into the wet mixture. Mix until it forms a thick, creamy consistency. The breadcrumbs help hold the cakes together without overpowering the crab.

Step 3: Fold in the Crab Meat

• Place the crab meat in a large bowl. Gently fold the wet mixture into the crab, being careful not to break the lumps. Mix until the crab is just coated.

Step 4: Shape the Crab Cakes

• Divide the mixture into four equal portions, about 8 ounces each. Gently shape into thick patties, keeping them loose to maintain texture. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Chill the Crab Cakes

• Refrigerate the crab cakes for 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape during cooking. Cover loosely with plastic wrap.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 400°F while the crab cakes chill. Ensure the rack is in the middle for even cooking. Line another baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 7: Bake the Crab Cakes

• Brush the crab cakes lightly with melted butter. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. The butter adds a rich, crispy finish.

Step 8: Serve Hot

• Remove the crab cakes from the oven and let them rest for 2 minutes. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for a fresh zing.

Notes

When making Jimmy’s Famous Seafood crab cakes, use jumbo lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor. Handle the mixture gently to preserve the crab’s delicate lumps, and don’t skip the chilling step—it keeps the cakes from falling apart. Adjust Old Bay to your taste, but keep it subtle to let the crab shine.

Keyword Jimmy’s Famous Seafood Crab Cake, Jimmy’s Famous Seafood Crab Cake Recipe