Crab cakes are one of the most delicious seafood appetizers around. Their crispy exterior and tender flaky interior pair so well with tasty dipping sauces. While fresh crab cakes are ideal, we don’t always have time to make them from scratch. Fortunately frozen crab cakes provide a convenient alternative to enjoy this tasty treat anytime. However, cooking them properly is key to achieving that perfect texture. Follow this complete guide to learn how to cook frozen crab cakes in the oven to crispy, golden perfection.
Why Oven-Baking is Ideal for Frozen Crab Cakes
While you can pan-fry frozen crab cakes, using the oven is a foolproof cooking method. The ambient heat of the oven allows the crab cakes to heat gradually without overcooking the exterior before the inside thaws. Additionally, the hot air circulates evenly around the crab cakes, browning and crisping all sides. No need to fuss with flipping individual cakes in a skillet. Simply pop them in the oven and let the heat do its work!
Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Frozen Crab Cakes
Follow these simple steps for baking flawless frozen crab cakes every time:
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly coat with cooking spray. The non-stick surface prevents sticking as well as facilitates easy clean-up.
2. Arrange Frozen Crab Cakes on Sheet
Remove crab cakes from freezer and arrange in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave a bit of space between each crab cake to allow air flow for even cooking.
3. Bake for 14 Minutes
Place crab cakes in the preheated 400°F oven and bake for 14 minutes, This timing ensures the outside gets crispy while the inside thaws and heats through,
4. Gently Flip and Bake 4-6 More Minutes
Remove baking sheet and gently flip each crab cake using a thin spatula. Return to oven and bake for 4-6 more minutes. This second baking interval crisps the other side to golden perfection.
5. Verify Doneness
Double check doneness by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the center of a crab cake. It should register 165°F when fully cooked. The exterior should be golden brown and crunchy.
6. Let Rest 5 Minutes Before Serving
Transfer cooked crab cakes to a wire rack and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps lock in the juices. Enjoy while hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
And that’s it! With this simple baking method, your frozen crab cakes come out tender on the inside and crispy on the outside – just like fresh made.
Handy Tips for Baked Frozen Crab Cakes
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For added flavor, brush crab cakes lightly with melted butter or olive oil before baking.
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If reheating leftover baked crab cakes, halve baking times and monitor closely.
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Try adding a squeeze of lemon or sprinkle of parsley after baking for a fresh finish.
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For easy transport, allow crab cakes to cool completely before moving to a storage container.
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Vacuum seal and freeze any uneaten crab cakes to enjoy later. Reheat directly from freezer.
Choosing the Best Frozen Crab Cakes
Not all frozen crab cakes are created equal. Here’s what to look for when purchasing:
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Made with lump crab meat, not canned or imitation crab
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Minimal added fillers like breadcrumbs or binders
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Free of preservatives, additives, and artificial ingredients
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Flash frozen at sea to preserve freshness
When buying frozen, aim for reputable brands known for quality. Or check your local fish market for house-made frozen crab cakes using fresh caught seafood. The better the crab cake, the better the end result!
Serving Suggestions for Baked Crab Cakes
Baked frozen crab cakes make a stellar starter or light meal any time. Serve them in these delicious ways:
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On brioche rolls with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce for crab cake sandwiches.
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On a bed of greens or grain salad for a satisfying lunch.
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Split in half and used as canapés or passed hors d’oeuvres.
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With roasted asparagus and lemon vinaigrette for a simple yet elegant dinner.
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On English muffins topped with poached eggs and hollandaise sauce.
Take your crab cake experience over the top by pairing them with fun sauces for dipping like sriracha mayo, avocado crema, or honey mustard sauce.
FAQs About Cooking Frozen Crab Cakes in the Oven
What is the best oven temperature for crab cakes?
400°F is ideal. The higher heat helps crisp the exterior quickly before the interior overcooks.
Should crab cakes be thawed before baking?
No, you can bake crab cakes straight from the freezer. No need to thaw.
How do you know when crab cakes are done?
They should be golden brown, firm to the touch, and register 165°F internally.
Can you cook frozen pre-cooked crab cakes?
Yes, pre-cooked frozen crab cakes simply need to be heated until warm and crisp. Follow the same baking method at a lower 325°F oven temp.
How long do baked crab cakes last?
Cooked crab cakes stay fresh 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat within this time or freeze for longer storage.
Bake your way to the best frozen crab cakes ever with this easy oven method. Enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort for a decadent appetizer any night of the week.
How To Cook Frozen Crab Cakes In The Oven
Crab cakes are a delicious and indulgent treat that many seafood lovers enjoy. What should you do when you have a box of frozen crab cakes and no idea how to cook them? Don’t worry, this simple guide will show you how to bake frozen crab cakes.
- Frozen crab cakes
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or non-stick cooking spray
- Warm up the oven to 400°F (200°C) and put parchment paper or non-stick cooking spray on a baking sheet to keep things from sticking.
- Set the baking sheet ready and place the frozen crab cakes on it. Leave some space between each cake so they cook evenly.
- Place the crab cakes in an oven that has already been heated. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and warm all the way through. Make sure to flip the crab cakes once while they’re cooking so that they brown evenly.
- Just take the crab cakes out of the oven and wait a minute or two before you serve them.
Here are some tips and variations that will help your baked frozen crab cakes taste and feel better:
- You could brush the crab cakes with melted butter or olive oil before baking to make them crunchier.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor. Old Bay seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and parsley are all popular choices.
- You can dip the crab cakes in tartar sauce, lemon juice, or your favorite sauce of your choice.
- If you want the outside of the crab cakes to be extra crunchy, you can broil them for a few minutes after baking.
- To finish off your meal, you might want to add a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables.
Enjoy Your Deliciously Baked Crab Cakes!
You can enjoy this tasty seafood treat whenever you want since you know how to cook frozen crab cakes in the oven. With just a few easy steps, you can make crab cakes that are perfectly cooked, with a crunchy outside and a soft, flavorful middle. So go ahead and buy a box of frozen crab cakes. Show off your cooking skills to your family and friends! Share your best oven baking tips for frozen crab cakes in the