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Ina Garten Crab Cakes Recipe

Ina Garten Crab Cakes

Ina Garten’s crab cakes are made with fresh lump crab meat, lightly seasoned and bound with just enough ingredients to hold them together. They are pan-fried to a golden brown, resulting in a crispy crust and tender, flavorful interior. Served with a zesty remoulade or lemon wedges, they’re a crowd-pleasing dish.

Ingredients

  • Lump crab meat: 1 pound, picked over for shells.
  • Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup.
  • Dijon mustard: 1 tablespoon.
  • Eggs: 2 large, lightly beaten.
  • Scallions: 1/4 cup, finely chopped.
  • Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped.
  • Old Bay seasoning: 1 teaspoon.
  • Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon.
  • Panko breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup, plus extra for coating.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste.
  • Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons, for frying.
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, for frying.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the crab mixture

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, eggs, scallions, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  • Gently fold in the crab meat and 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs, being careful not to break up the crab too much.

Step 2: Shape the crab cakes

  • Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape into patties about 1 inch thick.
  • Lightly coat each crab cake with additional panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

Step 3: Chill the crab cakes

  • Place the crab cakes on a plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape while cooking.

Step 4: Cook the crab cakes

  • Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the crab cakes to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

  • Transfer the crab cakes to a serving platter and garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley. Serve with your favorite sauce, such as remoulade or tartar sauce.