Air Fryer Crab Cakes: 8 Crispy Delights to Savor

Name: Air Fryer Crab Cakes: 8 Crispy Delights to Savor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lump crab meat; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 egg, beaten; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking spray

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 15, 2025

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Oh my goodness, you guys, have you ever tried making crab cakes in the air fryer? Let me tell you, these Air Fryer Crab Cakes are an absolute game changer! They come out so crispy and flavorful, you won’t even believe they’re not deep-fried. I’ve always had a soft spot for seafood, especially crab, and when I discovered how easy it is to whip these up in the air fryer, I was over the moon!

Imagine biting into a golden-brown crab cake that’s packed with tender lump crab meat and just the right amount of seasoning. Seriously, the air fryer gives them that perfect crunch on the outside while keeping the inside moist and delicious. It’s like a culinary hug for your taste buds! Plus, they’re super quick to make – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fancy appetizer for guests. I can already picture everyone gathered around, dipping them in tartar sauce and squeezing fresh lemon juice on top. Yum!

Air Fryer Crab Cakes - detail 1

Ingredients List

Let’s gather all the goodies we need to make these irresistible Air Fryer Crab Cakes. You’ll be amazed at how simple they are!

1 pound lump crab meat: Make sure to choose high-quality lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture. Drain any excess liquid before using.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs: I like to use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for a little extra flavor. They help bind the crab cakes together perfectly.
1/4 cup mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the mixture. I recommend using real mayonnaise for the best taste.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: This gives a lovely tang that enhances the crab’s flavor without overpowering it.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Just a splash adds a depth of flavor that really brings everything together.
1 egg, beaten: The egg acts as a binder, helping the crab cakes hold their shape during cooking.
2 green onions, chopped: Fresh green onions add a mild onion flavor and a nice pop of color to the crab cakes.
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: This iconic seasoning blend is a must for that classic crab cake flavor!
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season! Adjust to your preference for the perfect balance.
Cooking spray: A light spray will ensure your crab cakes get that beautiful golden color without sticking to the basket.

Having all these ingredients ready will make the cooking process a breeze! Trust me, you’ll be enjoying these delicious bites in no time.

How to Prepare Air Fryer Crab Cakes

Alright, let’s dive into the fun part – making these scrumptious Air Fryer Crab Cakes! It’s super straightforward, and I’ll walk you through each step so you can nail it every time.

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This is essential for getting that perfect crispy exterior. While it’s heating up, grab a large mixing bowl.

In your bowl, combine the crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, beaten egg, chopped green onions, and Old Bay seasoning. Don’t forget to sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Now, the key here is to be gentle – you want to mix everything until it’s just combined. Overmixing can break up that lovely lump crab meat, and we want to keep those delicious chunks intact!

Once everything is mixed, it’s time to form your crab cakes. I like to use my hands for this part because it’s just easier. Take a handful of the mixture and shape it into a patty, about 1 inch thick. You should get around 8 patties from this recipe, depending on how big you make them. If the mixture feels too wet and hard to handle, don’t worry! Just pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to chill. This makes it much easier to form into perfect patties.

Next, grab your cooking spray and lightly coat each patty. This little step is crucial to ensure they turn that beautiful golden brown in the air fryer. Now, arrange the crab cakes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not touching each other – you want that hot air to circulate around each cake for even cooking.

Pop the basket into the air fryer and let them cook for 10-12 minutes. You’ll want to check on them around the 10-minute mark. They should be golden brown and crispy when done, and trust me, the smell will be out of this world! Carefully remove the crab cakes from the basket (don’t use your bare hands; they’ll be hot!) and serve them warm.

And there you have it! Delicious, crispy air fryer crab cakes that will impress everyone. I can hardly wait for you to take that first bite!

Nutritional Information

Before you dive into these delicious Air Fryer Crab Cakes, let’s chat about the nutrition! Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so they’re not set in stone. But here’s what you can typically expect per crab cake:

Calories: 180
Fat: 10g
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sodium: 450mg
Sugar: 1g

These tasty bites are not only packed with flavor but also provide a good source of protein! Enjoy them guilt-free as part of a balanced meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, there are so many reasons to fall head over heels for these Air Fryer Crab Cakes. Here are just a few benefits that make this recipe a winner:

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these tasty crab cakes ready to cook in no time!
Easy Cooking: The air fryer takes all the guesswork out of cooking. Just set the temperature, pop them in, and let the magic happen!
Healthier Option: Enjoy the crispy texture of fried crab cakes without the extra oil and calories – the air fryer does it all with just a light spray!
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is packed with that delicious crab flavor, complemented by the perfect blend of seasonings. You won’t be able to stop at just one!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or an impressive appetizer for guests, these crab cakes are always a hit!

Seriously, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

Tips for Success

Alright, my friend, here are some golden nuggets of wisdom to help you nail these Air Fryer Crab Cakes every single time!

First up, don’t skip the chilling step! If you find your mixture a bit too wet to handle, pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This little trick makes forming those patties so much easier and helps them hold their shape while cooking.

Next, let’s talk seasoning. I always say, taste as you go! Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, or even Old Bay seasoning to your liking. Each crab meat can vary a bit in flavor, so make sure it suits your palate. A little tweak here and there can elevate your crab cakes from good to absolutely fantastic!

When it comes to cooking time, keep an eye on them around the 10-minute mark. Air fryers can vary a bit in how they cook, so if they look golden brown and crispy, they’re likely ready to come out. Trust your nose – if they smell amazing, they probably are!

Following these tips will lead you straight to crab cake perfection. I can’t wait for you to dig in!

Variations

One of the best things about these Air Fryer Crab Cakes is how easily you can customize them to match your taste! Here are a few fun variations to consider:

Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy twist that’ll wake up your taste buds!
Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra layer of freshness. They pair beautifully with crab!
Vegetarian Option: Swap out the crab meat for canned chickpeas or shredded zucchini for a delightful veggie cake that still delivers on flavor.
Different Seasonings: Mix in some Cajun seasoning for a southern flair, or try using lemon zest for a bright, citrusy flavor profile.

Feel free to get creative! Each variation can bring a whole new vibe to your crab cakes, keeping things exciting every time you whip them up.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got those delicious Air Fryer Crab Cakes ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve them with to really elevate the experience! First off, you can’t go wrong with a classic tartar sauce. Its creamy, tangy flavor complements the crab cakes perfectly. If you’re feeling adventurous, a zesty lemon aioli adds a lovely citrusy kick that brightens each bite.

For sides, consider a fresh arugula salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. The peppery greens contrast nicely with the richness of the crab cakes. Or, serve them alongside some crispy sweet potato fries for a fun twist. And don’t forget to pair your crab cakes with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing citrusy cocktail like a mojito for the perfect touch. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

FAQ Section

Got questions about these scrumptious Air Fryer Crab Cakes? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get, along with the answers you need to whip up these delicious bites with confidence.

Q1: Can I use imitation crab meat instead of lump crab meat?

While imitation crab meat can work in a pinch, I highly recommend sticking with lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture. Real crab adds that sweet, delicate taste that makes these cakes truly special.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?

If you have any crab cakes left (which is rare, trust me!), let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be good for about 2-3 days. To reheat, just pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to get them crispy again!

Q3: Can I freeze these crab cakes?

You bet! Form the patties, but don’t cook them first. Freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just cook them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

Q4: What’s the best way to adjust the seasoning?

As I mentioned earlier, taste as you go! Start with the recommended amounts of Old Bay seasoning and salt, but feel free to add more based on your preference. Each batch of crab meat can taste a bit different, so trust your taste buds!

Q5: Can I make these crab cakes gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, and you’re good to go. You can still enjoy all the flavor without worrying about gluten!

I hope this clears up any questions you had. Now, let’s get cooking!