Copycat Joe's Crab Shack Crab Cakes (Golden, Crispy, and Packed with Flavor)
Maya ChenFor the crab cakes:
1 lb lump crab meat, fresh or high-quality pasteurized (pick over for shells)
Salt and black pepper to taste
For serving:
Optional add-ins: Finely chopped celery, red bell pepper, or green onions for extra flavor and crunch .
Let's Make These Crab Cakes (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Mix the Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth . This creamy base binds the cakes and delivers flavor in every bite.
Step 2: Fold in the Crab and Breadcrumbs
Add the lump crab meat and panko breadcrumbs to the bowl. Using a spatula, gently fold the ingredients together until just combined . Don't overmix! The goal is to coat the crab without breaking up those beautiful lumps . If you smash the crab, you'll lose the texture that makes these cakes so special.
Step 3: Form the Patties
Shape the mixture into 6 evenly sized crab cakes, about 1 inch thick . Pack them gently so they hold together without being too dense .
Step 4: Chill the Patties
Place the patties on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes . Don't skip this step. Chilling firms up the binder and ensures your crab cakes won't fall apart in the pan . It also makes them easier to handle.
Step 5: Cook
Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat . Once the butter is melted and foaming, carefully place the crab cakes in the pan. Cook for 3–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp . Flip them only once, using a thin spatula for best results .
Step 6: Serve
Transfer the cooked crab cakes to a plate and squeeze fresh lemon over the top . Serve hot with tartar sauce or remoulade for dipping .
Tips for Perfect Crab Cakes
Pick over your crab carefully. Removing any stray shells is essential for a pleasant eating experience .
Don't overmix. Overmixing turns delicate crab into a paste . Fold gently with a spatula and stop as soon as everything is combined.
Chill the patties. The 30-minute chill is non-negotiable . It prevents your crab cakes from falling apart and helps them sear beautifully.
Use fresh lemon juice. Fresh lemon brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the crab and mayo .
Don't crowd the pan. Cook the crab cakes in batches if necessary. Crowding lowers the pan temperature and prevents proper browning .
Serve with remoulade. A zesty remoulade or tartar sauce takes these crab cakes to the next level .
Variations to Make Them Your Own
With Bell Pepper and Green Onion: Add finely chopped red bell pepper and green onions for a pop of color and crunch .
With Celery: Add finely chopped celery for extra crunch .
With Old Bay and Lemon: Classic Maryland-style, featuring Old Bay and fresh lemon .
With Blackened Seasoning: Add a pinch of blackened seasoning for a spicier kick .
With Saltine Crackers: Use crushed saltines instead of breadcrumbs for a lighter texture .
Baked Version: Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes instead of pan-frying .
Air Fryer Version: Cook in an air fryer at 375°F for about 8 minutes .
What to Serve With These Crab Cakes
These crab cakes are delicious on their own, but they also pair beautifully with:
Fresh lemon wedges (essential!)
A crisp green salad
Coleslaw
French fries or crispy potatoes
A glass of white wine or lemonade
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator: Store cooked crab cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days .
Freezer: Freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes per side .
Reheat: Reheat cooked crab cakes in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes to keep the exterior crisp . Microwaving will make them soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best type of crab meat?Lump crab meat is the best choice for these cakes. It gives you big, sweet chunks of crab. Avoid canned crab and imitation crab .
Why do my crab cakes fall apart?You might have overmixed the ingredients, used too little binder, or skipped the chilling step. The chill is essential for setting the cakes .
What holds crab cakes together?Mayonnaise, egg, and a small amount of breadcrumb or panko work together as the binder. Don't overdo it—you want just enough to hold the crab together .
Can I bake crab cakes instead of frying?Yes! Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping once . The result is lighter but still delicious.
Can I make crab cakes without mayonnaise?Yes. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise . This creates a lighter, brighter crab cake with less fat.
What's in Joe's Crab Shack remoulade sauce?A classic remoulade combines mayonnaise, ketchup, Cajun seasoning, and sometimes pickle relish or horseradish .
A Final, Crunchy Thought
There's something deeply satisfying about making crab cakes at home. They feel fancy, they taste incredible, and they're surprisingly easy—especially when you let the crab be the star.
I've made these for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, and quiet weeknights. Every time, they disappear within minutes. People ask for the recipe. They can't believe they're homemade.
Now I'm sharing the recipe with you. Because everyone deserves to taste the perfect crab cake—golden, crispy, and packed with sweet, tender crab.
Have you ever made crab cakes at home? What's your favorite way to serve them—with tartar sauce, remoulade, or just a squeeze of lemon? Share your tips and stories in the comments—I'd love to hear how you make this recipe your own! 🦀🍋✨