Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle

Introduction

There’s something truly delightful about the combination of rich crab meat and the savory flavors of cheddar and garlic. When I first made these Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes, my family was captivated. The moment they took a bite, their eyes lit up—this was not just another crab cake recipe; it was a flavorful experience that transported us to a seaside restaurant. The crispy exterior, the tender and juicy crab meat inside, and the zing of the lemon butter drizzle made for an unforgettable dish. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these crab cakes are sure to impress at any gathering.

Ingredients

For the Crab Cakes:

• 1 lb lump crab meat, picked over for shells
• 1/2 cup Cheddar Bay biscuit mix (or biscuit mix + 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese + 1/2 tsp garlic powder)
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (for coating)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)

For the Lemon Butter Drizzle:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Make the Crab Cake Mixture:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lump crab meat, Cheddar Bay biscuit mix (or the combination of biscuit mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and garlic powder), beaten egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, black pepper, and chopped parsley.
2. Mix gently until all ingredients are well combined, taking care not to break up the crab meat too much.

Form and Coat Crab Cakes:

3. Form the mixture into 6-8 small patties, depending on your preferred size.
4. Coat each crab cake with panko breadcrumbs, which will give them an extra crispy exterior when fried.

Cook Crab Cakes:

5. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Add the crab cakes and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Once cooked, remove the crab cakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Make the Lemon Butter Drizzle:

8. In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat.
9. Stir in the lemon juice and garlic powder until well combined.

Serve:

10. Drizzle the lemon butter over the crab cakes just before serving.
11. Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy with a side of lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 crab cake
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• As an appetizer: Serve with a tangy dipping sauce.
• With sides: Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
• With drinks: Complement with a chilled white wine or a light beer.
• As a main dish: Serve over a bed of greens or with rice.

Additional Tips

1. Quality of Crab Meat: Always use fresh, high-quality lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture.
2. Chilling the Mixture: If the crab mixture feels too loose, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before forming patties to help them hold together better.
3. Crispy Coating: Ensure the pan is hot enough before adding the crab cakes to achieve a crispy exterior.
4. Cooking Method: For a healthier option, you can bake the crab cakes in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Variations: Experiment with adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños for a spicy kick!

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Crab Cakes: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the crab mixture for extra heat.
• Cheese Variation: Swap out cheddar cheese for pepper jack for a spicier flavor profile.
• Baked Version: Instead of frying, brush with olive oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for a healthier alternative.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute crab meat with mashed chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

• Dipping Sauce: Serve with a homemade tartar sauce or a spicy remoulade.
• Salad: A refreshing arugula or mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs well.
• Bread: Serve with crusty bread or soft rolls to soak up the lemon butter drizzle.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Uncooked crab cakes can be frozen. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• Storage: Cooked crab cakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use imitation crab meat?

• Yes, you can, but the flavor and texture will differ from using real crab meat.

1. How do I know when the crab cakes are done?

• They should be golden brown on both sides and heated through in the center.

1. Can I make the crab cakes ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the cakes, then refrigerate until ready to cook.

1. What can I substitute for Old Bay seasoning?

• A mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, and celery salt can serve as a substitute.

1. Are these crab cakes gluten-free?

• Use a gluten-free biscuit mix and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make them gluten-free.

1. What should I serve with crab cakes?

• They pair well with salads, roasted vegetables, or a light pasta dish.

1. Can I bake the crab cakes instead of frying?

• Yes, baking is a healthier option; just ensure they are lightly greased.

1. What type of crab meat is best?

• Lump crab meat is ideal for its texture and flavor.

1. How can I tell if crab meat is fresh?

• Fresh crab meat should smell like the ocean and not have a strong fishy odor.

1. Can I use frozen crab meat?
   • Yes, just make sure it is fully thawed and well-drained before using.

Conclusion

These Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of the sea with a twist. With their crispy exterior and rich, savory filling, they are perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special meal at home. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just treating yourself to something delicious, these crab cakes are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy every bite!

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