Jimmy's Famous Seafood Crab Cake Recipe
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.
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.