Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle
These Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle are a delightful seafood dish that brings together the rich flavors of crab and cheddar in a crispy package. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner, these cakes are sure to impress with their savory taste and zesty lemon butter sauce. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself to something special, this recipe stands out for its ease of preparation and delicious results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These crab cakes come together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of lump crab meat, cheddar cheese, and Old Bay seasoning creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.
- Versatile Dish: Ideal as an appetizer, main course, or even in sandwiches, they can fit into any meal plan.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With their crispy texture and rich lemon butter drizzle, these crab cakes are sure to impress guests at any gathering.
- Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes easier and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients evenly.
- Baking sheet: This ensures even cooking and easy transfer to the oven.
- Small saucepan: Needed for melting butter and mixing the lemon drizzle perfectly.
Ingredients
For the Crab Cakes
- 1 lb lump crab meat
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Butter Drizzle
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
How to Make Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Crab Cake Mixture
In a large bowl, combine:
1. Crab meat
2. Shredded cheddar cheese
3. Eggs
4. Breadcrumbs
5. Chopped green onions
6. Chopped parsley
7. Mayonnaise
8. Minced garlic
9. Lemon juice
10. Old Bay seasoning
11. Salt and pepper to taste.
Mix everything until well combined.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
Shape the mixture into patties that are about 2 inches wide. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Crab Cakes
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crab cakes turn golden brown.
Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Butter Drizzle
While the crab cakes are baking:
1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
2. Stir in lemon juice and garlic powder.
3. Keep warm until ready to serve.
Step 6: Serve with Lemon Butter Drizzle
Drizzle warm lemon butter over each crab cake right before serving for added flavor.
Notes:
You can substitute Cheddar Bay biscuit mix for breadcrumbs if you prefer an extra cheesy flavor. Make sure to refrigerate the shaped crab cakes before cooking; this helps them firm up nicely during baking.
Enjoy your delicious Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle!
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle
Serving Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle is a delightful experience. These delicious seafood cakes can be paired with various sides and garnishes to enhance their flavor profile and presentation.
Pairing with Fresh Salads
- Garden Salad: A mix of leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a refreshing contrast.
- Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw balances the soft texture of the crab cakes.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and parmesan cheese complement the savory crab cakes well.
Accompanying Dipping Sauces
- Tartar Sauce: A classic choice that adds extra flavor and creaminess.
- Spicy Aioli: This sauce gives a kick that pairs nicely with the richness of the crab cakes.
- Lemon Dill Sauce: A zesty option that enhances the lemon flavors in the dish.
Adding Garnishes
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also freshness to each bite.
- Lemon Wedges: Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the cakes brightens the flavors significantly.
How to Perfect Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle
To ensure your Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes turn out perfectly, follow these tips for ideal results.
- Use Fresh Crab Meat: Fresh lump crab meat makes a significant difference in taste and texture compared to canned varieties.
- Chill the Mixture: Refrigerating the crab cake mixture before shaping helps them hold their form during baking.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients to maintain the lumpiness of the crab meat for better texture.
- Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking for even cooking and crispiness.
Best Side Dishes for Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle
Complementing your Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with delicious side dishes enhances your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a healthy, crunchy element to your plate.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers a nutritious boost.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn serves as a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of crab cakes.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs pairs beautifully with seafood dishes.
- Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled veggies brings color and healthiness to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using fresh crab meat: Always ensure that you use high-quality lump crab meat. Avoid imitation crab as it won’t provide the same flavor and texture.
- Skipping the chilling step: Refrigerating the crab cakes before baking is crucial. This helps them hold their shape while cooking. Don’t skip this step!
- Overmixing the ingredients: When combining the mixture, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough crab cakes instead of light and fluffy ones.
- Not seasoning adequately: Taste your mixture before shaping it into patties. Adjust the seasoning as needed because bland crab cakes can be disappointing.
- Ignoring cooking time: Keep an eye on baking time. Overbaking can dry out the crab cakes, so take them out when they are golden brown.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle
- You can freeze uncooked or cooked crab cakes.
- Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle that might help you.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! While cheddar is delicious, you can experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for varied flavors.
What can I serve with Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes?
These crab cakes pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or some crispy fries for a complete meal.
How do I know when the crab cakes are done?
Look for a golden-brown color on top and ensure they are heated through completely inside.
Can I make these crab cakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mixture and form patties, then refrigerate or freeze as mentioned above before cooking.
Final Thoughts
These Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle offer a perfect blend of flavors and textures that make them irresistible. They are versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite herbs or spices!
Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Experience the delightful fusion of flavors in Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle. These savory seafood cakes feature a perfect blend of lump crab meat and cheddar cheese, all enveloped in a crispy golden crust. Ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, these crab cakes are not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The accompanying lemon butter drizzle elevates the dish with zesty brightness, making each bite a delicious treat. Impress your guests or indulge yourself with this easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lump crab meat
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup butter (for drizzle)
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine crab meat, cheddar cheese, eggs, breadcrumbs, green onions, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into patties about 2 inches wide and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- For the drizzle, melt butter in a saucepan over low heat; stir in lemon juice and garlic powder.
- Serve warm crab cakes drizzled with the lemon butter sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
