Homemade Joe’s Crab Shack–Style Crab Cakes

Introduction

If you love the famous crab cakes from Joe’s Crab Shack, you’ll be happy to know you can recreate that same
irresistible coastal flavor right at home. These homemade Joe’s Crab Shack–style crab cakes are loaded with
sweet lump crab meat, lightly seasoned, and cooked until golden and crispy on the outside while staying tender
and moist on the inside. Perfect for seafood lovers, family dinners, or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2–3 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter (for frying)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crab Meat: Gently check the crab meat for any shell fragments and place it in a
   large mixing bowl.
2. Mix the Binding Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, egg,
   Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and all seasonings.
3. Combine Carefully: Pour the mixture over the crab meat. Add breadcrumbs and parsley.
   Gently fold everything together without breaking up the crab too much.
4. Shape the Crab Cakes: Form the mixture into patties about 3 inches wide. Place them on a
   plate and refrigerate for 30 minutes to help them firm up.
5. Cook the Crab Cakes: Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the crab cakes
   for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and heated through.
6. Drain and Serve: Remove the crab cakes from the skillet and drain briefly on paper towels
   before serving.

Description

These crab cakes closely resemble the classic Joe’s Crab Shack style—crispy on the outside and rich,
tender, and flaky on the inside. The seasoning enhances the natural sweetness of the crab without overpowering
it, making these crab cakes perfect served alone or paired with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips

• Use lump or jumbo lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture.
• Chilling the crab cakes before cooking helps prevent them from falling apart.
• Avoid overmixing to keep the crab cakes light and flaky.
• Serve with lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.
• For baking, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping once.

Correction (Adjustments & Substitutions)

• If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
• If it feels too dry, mix in an extra spoonful of mayonnaise.
• Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise for a lighter version.
• Panko breadcrumbs can be used for extra crunch.
• Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes as a healthier option.

Enjoy

Enjoy your homemade Joe’s Crab Shack–style crab cakes with coleslaw, fries, or a fresh green salad.
Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these crab cakes bring restaurant-quality flavor straight to
your table.