Description

These Crab and Shrimp Cakes are crispy on the outside, tender and packed with seafood goodness on the inside! Made with lump crab meat, juicy shrimp, and a blend of flavorful seasonings, they’re the perfect appetizer or main dish. Serve them with a creamy dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

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Ingredients

Scale

Crab and Shrimp Cakes

You’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Crab and Shrimp Cakes:

½ lb lump crab meat – Adds a rich, delicate seafood flavor.
½ lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and finely chopped – Gives extra texture and sweetness.
½ cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the cakes together.
1 egg – Keeps everything held together.
2 tablespoons mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and moisture.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Enhances the flavor.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Deepens the umami taste.
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning – Classic seafood seasoning for the perfect touch.
½ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a savory depth.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Gives a hint of smokiness.
1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens up the flavors.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – For freshness and color.
1 green onion, finely chopped – Adds a mild onion flavor.
2 tablespoons olive oil – For pan-frying.

For the Creamy Dipping Sauce:

¼ cup mayonnaise – The base of the sauce.
1 tablespoon lemon juice – Adds freshness.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Ties in with the cakes’ flavors.
½ teaspoon garlic powder – Boosts the flavor.
½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning – For a seafood-friendly kick.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, chopped shrimp, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon juice, parsley, and green onion.
Gently mix until well combined, being careful not to break up the crab meat too much.

Step 2: Shape the Cakes

Form the mixture into 8 small patties or 4 larger ones.
Place them on a plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them firm up.

Step 3: Cook the Crab and Shrimp Cakes

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the crab and shrimp cakes and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Dipping Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and Old Bay seasoning until smooth.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the crab and shrimp cakes warm with the dipping sauce on the side.
Garnish with extra parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra flavor.

Notes

Use Fresh or High-Quality Crab Meat – Lump crab meat works best for flavor and texture.
Chill Before Cooking – This helps the cakes hold their shape while frying.
Don’t Overmix – Keep the texture light and avoid making the cakes too dense.
Make it Spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American