A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite
Imagine biting into a crispy, golden crab cake that’s bursting with fresh flavors and tender chunks of crab meat, perfectly seasoned with hints of Old Bay and lemon. Now imagine it’s healthier, faster, and easier to make than ever before—all thanks to your air fryer. Air Fryer Crab Cakes are the perfect combination of indulgent taste and convenience. Whether you’re planning a fancy dinner or a quick weeknight meal, these crab cakes deliver restaurant-quality results from the comfort of your home.
What Makes Air Fryer Crab Cakes So Special?
Air frying has revolutionized home cooking, giving you all the crispiness of frying with a fraction of the oil. With this method, crab cakes become wonderfully golden and crunchy on the outside while staying moist and flavorful on the inside. The air fryer makes this recipe quicker, healthier, and mess-free compared to traditional frying. Plus, with minimal effort, you can create a dish that tastes like it came straight from a seaside bistro.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Crab Cakes
Let’s start by gathering the ingredients for the crab cakes and their perfect pairing: homemade tartar sauce. These simple yet flavorful components come together to create a dish that will wow your taste buds.
For the Crab Cakes
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
Large egg | 1 | Binds the ingredients |
Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup | Adds creaminess |
Minced chives | 2 Tbsp. | Provides a fresh, herby flavor |
Dijon mustard | 2 tsp. | Adds a tangy kick |
Old Bay seasoning | 2 tsp. | The classic spice blend for crab |
Lemon zest | 1 tsp. | Brightens the flavors |
Kosher salt | 1/2 tsp. | Enhances overall seasoning |
Jumbo lump crab meat | 1 lb. | Picked over to remove shells |
Saltine cracker crumbs | 1 cup (from about 20 crackers) | Acts as a light binder |
Olive oil cooking spray | As needed | For crisping in the air fryer |
For the Tartar Sauce
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
Finely chopped dill pickle | 1/2 cup | Adds tang and crunch |
Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup | Creamy base |
Finely chopped shallot | 1 Tbsp. | Subtle onion flavor |
Capers, finely chopped | 2 tsp. | Adds brininess |
Fresh dill, chopped | 1 tsp. | Herby freshness |
Fresh lemon juice | 1 tsp. | Balances the richness |
Dijon mustard | 1/4 tsp. | Tangy depth |
How to Make Air Fryer Crab Cakes: Step-by-Step
Follow this easy guide to create the perfect Air Fryer Crab Cakes that will impress everyone at your table.
1. Prepare the Crab Cake Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, mayonnaise, chives, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, lemon zest, and salt.
- Gently fold in the crab meat and Saltine cracker crumbs until combined. Be careful not to break up the crab meat too much—you want to keep those lumps intact for the best texture.
2. Shape the Crab Cakes
- Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape them into patties.
- For best results, refrigerate the patties for up to 4 hours before cooking. This helps them firm up and hold their shape while cooking.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
- Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray to prevent sticking.
4. Air Fry the Crab Cakes
- Arrange the crab cakes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be sure to leave a little space between each one. Spray the tops of the crab cakes lightly with olive oil cooking spray.
- Cook for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crab cakes are golden brown and crisp.
5. Make the Tartar Sauce
- While the crab cakes are cooking, prepare the tartar sauce. In a medium bowl, stir together the finely chopped dill pickle, mayonnaise, shallot, capers, fresh dill, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the crab cakes warm with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, and a dash of hot sauce for those who like a little extra heat.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Crab Cakes
- Use Fresh Crab Meat: For the best flavor and texture, opt for jumbo lump crab meat. Avoid imitation crab as it won’t deliver the same results.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the ingredients to avoid breaking the crab meat into tiny pieces. You want big, juicy chunks in every bite.
- Refrigerate the Patties: Chilling the crab cakes before cooking helps them hold their shape and ensures they cook evenly.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Basket: Cook the crab cakes in batches if necessary to allow hot air to circulate properly.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (1 crab cake with tartar sauce):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 210 |
Total Fat | 14g |
Saturated Fat | 3g |
Cholesterol | 75mg |
Sodium | 480mg |
Carbohydrates | 10g |
Protein | 14g |
Pairing Suggestions for Air Fryer Crab Cakes
To elevate your meal, serve these crispy crab cakes with:
- A Fresh Salad: Try a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Roasted Veggies: Asparagus or Brussels sprouts complement the flavors beautifully.
- Rice or Quinoa: A light, fluffy side to soak up any extra tartar sauce.
- A Refreshing Drink: A glass of crisp white wine or a homemade lemonade pairs perfectly.
FAQs About Air Fryer Crab Cakes
