These broiled Maryland crab cakes have been in my family for generations. This is my grandmother’s crab cake recipe. It’s the best one I’ve ever had, and I’ve tried a lot of them!
Also, check out my Jumbo Lump Crab Cake Sliders and Jumbo Lump Mini Crab Cake Bites!
I’ve lived in Maryland for my entire life and I can tell you this: we love our crabs.
When friends from out of town come to visit, they always want to get crabs and beer. It’s a tradition!.
My grandma, Zelda, has been making these jumbo lump crab cakes for as long as I can remember.
I can tell you with complete certainty: these are the BEST crab cakes you’ll ever have.
Just remember, if you think you’ve had better, don’t knock them until you’ve tried them. And be sure to check out all of those 5 Star ratings below.
Crab cakes are a delicious appetizer or main course that can be made at home. When making crab cakes, one of the most important steps is knowing how long to broil them in the oven so they turn out perfectly browned on the outside while still being moist and flaky on the inside. Follow this guide to learn exactly how long you should broil crab cakes based on thickness and get tips for ensuring crab cake success.
What is the Best Way to Cook Crab Cakes?
There are three main methods for cooking crab cakes:
- Pan-frying
- Baking
- Broiling
While pan-frying and baking crab cakes certainly produces tasty results, broiling is hands-down the best technique if you want crab cakes with a crispy caramelized exterior and a moist delicate interior.
Broiling utilizes high heat from above to quickly sear the outside of the crab cakes first before gently cooking the inside. This results in the ideal contrast of textures. Pan-frying and baking heat the crab cake from all sides which can lead to overcooking.
So for the absolute best, most authentic crab cake experience, broiling is the way to go Just be sure not to flip the cakes during broiling—they are too delicate Simply broil on one side the entire time.
How Long Should You Broil Crab Cakes?
The exact broiling time for crab cakes will depend on the thickness and size of the cakes. Here are general guidelines:
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For small 2-3 inch crab cakes that are around 1 inch thick, broil for 8-12 minutes.
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For larger 3-4 inch crab cakes that are 1-1.5 inches thick, broil for 12-15 minutes.
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Jumbo lump crab cakes that are 4+ inches wide may need 15-18 minutes.
These times are for broiling on low heat. If broiling on high, reduce times by 2-3 minutes.
No matter what size your crab cakes are, always watch them carefully during broiling. You want the tops to become golden brown without burning. If they seem to be browning too quickly, lower the oven rack to increase the distance from the broiler.
Tip for Extra Caramelization
For an extra burst of flavor, switch the oven to high broil during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. This will further caramelize the tops without overcooking the inside. Just keep a very close eye on them!
How to Tell When Crab Cakes are Done Broiling
The best way to test doneness for crab cakes is to insert a toothpick into the center. When it comes out clean with no wet batter clinging to it, they are fully cooked through.
You can also gently press on the top of a crab cake. It should feel firm and spring back slightly. Softness or denting means they need a bit longer in the oven.
And of course, the ideal doneness indicator is when the tops are evenly golden brown. The color should resemble that of a perfectly toasted bread slice. Uneven browning or pale spots means they need more time under the broiler.
Helpful Tips for Broiled Crab Cake Success
Follow these tips for the very best oven-broiled crab cakes every time:
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Use fresh, high-quality jumbo lump crab meat. This will provide the best texture.
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Form the crab cakes to a uniform thickness so they cook at the same rate.
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Do not overmix the ingredients—this can cause the cakes to break apart. Gently fold together.
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Chill the formed crab cakes for at least 30 minutes before broiling so they hold their shape better.
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Place crab cakes on a lightly greased pan so they don’t stick.
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Put a small pat of butter on top of each crab cake before broiling for extra browning and flavor.
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Broil on low heat, 4-6 inches from heating element to prevent burning.
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Resist the urge to flip them during broiling—they are too delicate.
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Allow crab cakes to rest for 2-3 minutes after removing from oven before serving.
Delicious Ways to Serve Broiled Crab Cakes
Once you’ve mastered the perfect broiled crab cakes, it’s time to figure out how to serve them. Here are some tasty ideas:
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On brioche buns with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce for crab cake sandwiches.
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On a bed of greens or slaw with lemon wedges.
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With roasted asparagus and hollandaise sauce.
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Alongside french fries or onion rings for dipping.
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On top of a fresh salad for an elevated seafood salad.
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With drawn butter and lemon for dipping.
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With classic tartar sauce, ketchup, or cocktail sauce for dipping.
So now you know exactly how long to broil crab cakes along with plenty of extra tips for crab cake success. Follow this guide and you’ll be rewarded with the most flavorful, tender, perfectly cooked crab cakes every time. Enjoy!
What is a good crab cake sauce?
I like crab cakes with dijon mustard (and Saltines) but many prefer tarter sauce.
You can purchase jarred varieties at the store, but it’s easy to prepare at home.
Check out this basic tarter sauce recipe from Ina Garten.
What are Fines Herbs?
Fines Herbs refers to a dried spice blend used commonly in French cuisine.
Different brands make it, but I’ve always used the Spice Island brand because it’s easy to find at my grocery store.
If you can’t find it at the store or online, you can make it at home.
It’s made from a mix of commonly used herbs: parsley, chives, tarragon, and chervil.
Google around and you’ll find plenty of recipes.
Broiled Crab Cakes Recipe
How do you cook crab cakes in a broiler?
Preheat the Broiler: Position your oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the broiler on high. This will ensure that the crab cakes cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden crust. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or cooking spray.
How long do you cook crab cakes in the oven?
Place 1/3 tbsp of butter on top of each of the cakes. Broil the crab cakes for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. If they look like they are browning too fast, lower the oven rack so that the cakes can still cook for the allotted time. Remove the crab cakes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving them.
How do you cook crab cakes on a baking sheet?
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or cooking spray. This will prevent the crab cakes from sticking to the pan and make cleanup a breeze. Arrange the Crab Cakes: Place the crab cakes on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring that there is some space between each cake.
How do you cook crab cakes in a crock pot?
Gently form your mixture into 6 crab cakes. Lightly grease the bottom of a baking sheet with oil or cooking spray and place your crab cakes on the sheet. Place 1/3 tbsp of butter on top of each of the cakes. Broil the crab cakes for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.