Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Crab Cake Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the lump crab meat, Cheddar Bay biscuit mix, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Gently fold the mixture together, being careful not to break apart the crab meat too much. The goal is to keep the crab meat in larger chunks for that perfect texture in every bite.

Add the green onions and bell pepper (if using), and stir until evenly distributed. Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 2: Form the Crab Cakes

Using your hands, gently form the crab mixture into 6-8 crab cakes, depending on your preferred size. Try to keep the cakes compact but not overly pressed, as this will help them hold together without being too dense. Set the formed crab cakes on a plate or tray.

Step 3: Cook the Crab Cakes

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the crab cakes in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Be sure to handle the cakes gently, flipping them only once to prevent them from falling apart.

Once cooked, remove the crab cakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Drizzle

While the crab cakes are cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and garlic powder. Let the sauce simmer for a minute or two to allow the flavors to meld together. The butter should become aromatic with a rich citrus scent. Keep warm until ready to serve.

Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

To serve, arrange the crab cakes on a platter and drizzle the warm lemon butter sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with additional lemon wedges on the side for extra zing.

Why You’ll Love Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle

• Cheesy & Flavorful: The addition of Cheddar Bay biscuit mix to the crab cakes brings a delightful cheesy flavor that complements the sweet, delicate crab meat perfectly. It’s a twist that takes this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
• Crispy on the Outside, Tender on the Inside: The crab cakes develop a crispy golden crust on the outside, while the inside stays tender and packed with flavor. It’s the ideal texture contrast in every bite.
• Buttery & Zesty Lemon Drizzle: The lemon butter drizzle is the perfect finishing touch, adding a zesty and creamy element that elevates the entire dish. The combination of buttery richness and bright lemon flavor is simply irresistible.
• Easy to Make: While these crab cakes feel like a luxurious treat, they’re surprisingly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a weekend meal, these Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes are versatile enough for any occasion. They pair wonderfully with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or even some crispy fries.

Tips for the Best Crab Cakes

• Don’t Overmix the Crab: Gently fold the ingredients together, and avoid overworking the crab meat. This ensures that your crab cakes will be light and tender, not dense or mushy.
• Use Fresh Crab Meat: If possible, use fresh lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture. The better the crab, the better the crab cakes will taste.
• Chill the Crab Cakes: If you have time, refrigerate the formed crab cakes for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold together better while frying.
• Customize the Flavor: Feel free to add other seasonings or ingredients to suit your taste. Old Bay seasoning, fresh herbs, or even a dash of hot sauce can add more depth and personality to your crab cakes.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the crab cakes ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to cook. This makes the dish even more convenient if you’re planning to serve it for a dinner party or special meal.

Conclusion

Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle bring together the best of both worlds—succulent crab meat, cheesy goodness, and a tangy, buttery lemon finish. This dish is a true coastal classic with a savory twist that will transport your taste buds to the shores of flavor. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main course, these crab cakes are sure to impress and delight your guests. So, go ahead and treat yourself to this delicious seafood dish—you deserve it!