1. Prepare the Crab Cake Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, gently combine the crabmeat, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, egg, panko breadcrumbs, green onion, Old Bay seasoning, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the crab texture intact.
- Form the mixture into 8–10 evenly sized patties, about 1/2-inch thick. Place them on a plate or baking sheet and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
2. Cook the Crab Cakes
- Heat the vegetable oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Carefully add the crab cakes to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if needed.
- Transfer the cooked crab cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
3. Make the Lemon Butter Drizzle
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
- Optional: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
4. Serve and Enjoy
- Arrange the warm crab cakes on a serving platter.
- Drizzle the lemon butter sauce generously over the crab cakes or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges for added flair.
- Serve warm and enjoy every bite of these cheesy, zesty, and seafood-packed crab cakes!
- Perfect as an appetizer, brunch item, or main dish for any occasion.
Tips for Success
- Use High-Quality Crab: Fresh lump crabmeat elevates the dish, but canned crab works well too.
- Switch Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or smoked cheddar for a unique twist.
- Add Extras: Stir in diced red bell peppers or jalapeños for added color and flavor.
- Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or skillet to maintain crispiness.
Why This Recipe Works
These Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes combine the tender, flaky texture of crab meat with the rich, cheesy flavors inspired by Cheddar Bay biscuits. The result is a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent, with layers of flavor that feel luxurious yet approachable. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or slider filling, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity without requiring advanced cooking skills.
Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something cheesy and savory, looking for a way to incorporate more seafood into your diet, or simply want to enjoy a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle are sure to delight. Their bold flavors, satisfying textures, and customizable options make them a standout recipe that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, their versatility means you can tailor them to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on these crab cakes might just inspire others to try them too! 🍋✨