Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle

Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle 🦀🧀🍋

These Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle are a decadent twist on classic crab cakes, combining tender lump crab meat with sharp cheddar cheese and a hint of Cheddar Bay seasoning. The result is a rich, flavorful dish that’s crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and drizzled with a tangy lemon butter sauce for extra indulgence. Perfect for appetizers, brunch, or dinner, these crab cakes are sure to impress.

Let’s dive into how to make these mouthwatering crab cakes step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavorful & Cheesy : The addition of sharp cheddar and Cheddar Bay seasoning elevates the classic crab cake.
2. Crispy & Creamy : A golden exterior and tender, cheesy interior create a satisfying contrast.
3. Easy to Make : Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe approachable.
4. Impressive Dish : Perfect for entertaining guests or treating yourself to something special.
5. Customizable : Adjust spices or toppings to suit your taste.

Ingredients

For the Crab Cakes:

• 1 lb lump crab meat , picked over for shells 🦀
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese 🧀
• 1 cup crushed Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix (or substitute with seasoned breadcrumbs ) 🍞
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 large egg , lightly beaten 🥚
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley ✂️
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick )
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter , for frying 🧈

For the Lemon Butter Drizzle:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter , melted 🧈
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 🍋
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon honey 🍯
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crab Cakes

1. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the crab meat , shredded cheddar cheese , and crushed Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix . Be careful not to break up the crab meat too much.
2. Add the mayonnaise , egg , Dijon mustard , parsley , Old Bay seasoning , garlic powder , and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix gently until the mixture holds together but avoid overworking it.
   • Tip : Overmixing can make the crab cakes dense instead of light and tender.
3. Shape the mixture into 8–10 small patties , about ½-inch thick, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Refrigerate the patties for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This helps them hold their shape during cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Crab Cakes

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat .
2. Once the butter is melted and slightly foamy, carefully add the crab cakes to the skillet. Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
3. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side , or until golden brown and crispy. Flip gently to prevent breaking.
4. Transfer the cooked crab cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess butter.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Drizzle

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter , lemon juice , lemon zest , honey , and pinch of salt . Taste and adjust sweetness or tanginess as needed.

Step 4: Serve

1. Arrange the crab cakes on a serving platter.
2. Drizzle the Lemon Butter Sauce generously over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.
3. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or lemon wedges for a pop of color.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients : Fresh crab meat and high-quality cheddar make a noticeable difference in flavor.
2. Pick Over the Crab Meat : Carefully check for any remaining shells to ensure a smooth texture.
3. Substitute Seasoned Breadcrumbs : If you don’t have Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix, use seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with a pinch of Old Bay seasoning for a similar flavor.
4. Make Ahead : Assemble the crab cakes ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 1 day before cooking.
5. Freeze for Later : Freeze uncooked crab cakes in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the cooking time.

Perfect Pairings

These Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle pair beautifully with:

• Coleslaw : Serve with a creamy or vinegar-based slaw for a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables : Pair with roasted asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a hearty meal.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water, lemonade, or a glass of white wine for balance.
• Tartar Sauce : Offer a side of homemade tartar sauce for dipping.

Nutritional Information (Per Crab Cake, Approx.)

(Based on 8 crab cakes, without drizzle)

• Calories : ~200 kcal
• Protein : ~12g
• Carbohydrates : ~6g
• Fat : ~15g
• Fiber : ~1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

These Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle are a luxurious yet approachable dish that combines the best of seafood, cheese, and seasoning. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a main course, or part of a special meal, these crab cakes are sure to delight. The combination of crispy exteriors, cheesy interiors, and tangy lemon butter creates a dish that’s as indulgent as it is satisfying.

The best part? They’re endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the seasonings, adjust the toppings, or pair them with different sides to make them your own. So grab your crab meat, melt that butter, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to devour.