Air Fryer Crab Cakes Recipe
Crab cakes are a delicious treat that can be made healthier and quicker with an air fryer. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, appetizer, or even a party snack. The air fryer delivers crispy, golden crab cakes with less oil, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Crab Cakes?
Cooking crab cakes in an air fryer provides a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. It’s also:
- Healthier: Less oil means fewer calories.
- Faster: Cooks evenly in a fraction of the time.
- Mess-Free: Say goodbye to oil splatters!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Crab Cakes
To make about 8 medium-sized crab cakes, you’ll need:
- 1 pound of lump crab meat
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (essential for authentic flavor)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or plain)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Non-stick cooking spray
How to Make Air Fryer Crab Cakes
Follow these easy steps for crab cakes that will wow your taste buds!
1. Prepare the Crab Cake Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, breadcrumbs, green onions, parsley, and lemon juice.
- Be careful not to overmix — you want to keep the lumps of crab meat intact for the best texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pro Tip: If the mixture feels too wet, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs at a time until it holds its shape.
2. Shape and Chill the Crab Cakes
- Use your hands to form the mixture into patties about 2-3 inches wide and 1 inch thick.
- Place the patties on a plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and prevents crumbling during cooking.
Pro Tip: For even firmer cakes, freeze them for 10 minutes before air frying.
3. Air Fry the Crab Cakes
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the basket with non-stick cooking spray.
- Arrange the crab cakes in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. Spray the tops with a light coat of cooking spray.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crab cakes are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Pro Tip: Use a spatula for flipping to avoid breaking the crab cakes.
Serving Suggestions
Crab cakes are versatile and pair well with various sides. Try serving them with:
- Tartar sauce or remoulade for dipping.
- A crisp green salad for a light, refreshing meal.
- Roasted vegetables or fries for a hearty option.
- Lemon wedges to add a zesty finishing touch.
Storing and Reheating Crab Cakes
- To Store: Place leftover crab cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To Freeze: Wrap uncooked crab cakes in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- To Reheat: Use the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to bring back the crispiness.
Final Thoughts
Making crab cakes in an air fryer is a game-changer! With minimal effort, you can enjoy this restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home. Follow this recipe to create crab cakes that are crispy, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible.
