Red Lobster Crab Cakes Recipe

Crab cakes are such a classic seafood dish, and when it comes to replicating the flavors of Red Lobster, I’ve got this one down to a T!

The first thing I’ll say is to let the crab mixture chill in the fridge to help the cakes hold together when cooking. You’ll be thankful you did.

While the original recipe uses specific seasonings, don’t hesitate to put your twist by adding a hint of Dijon mustard for extra tang. One of my lil’ secrets!

How to Make Red Lobster Crab Cakes Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb Lump Crab Meat
• 2 tbsp Greek Yogurt
• 2 tbsp Mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Garlic (minced)
• 1 Egg
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tsp Hot Sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
• ⅓ tsp Ground Ginger
• ⅓ tsp Sweet Paprika
• ⅓ tsp Bay Seasoning
• ⅛ tsp Onion Powder
• ⅛ tsp Sea Salt
• ⅛ tsp Ground Black Pepper
• 1 cup Bread Crumbs
• 2 tbsp Canola Oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Mix the crab meat, Greek yogurt, mayo, garlic, and egg in a large bowl.

Combine them well to create a smooth texture.

Step 2:

Add Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, Dijon mustard, and all the spices.

Stir until evenly mixed.

Step 3:

Gently fold in bread crumbs to the crab mixture.

Form the mix into balls about two inches in diameter.

Step 4:

Flatten the balls gently, forming cakes about a half inch thick.

Refrigerate the cakes for at least 30 minutes.

Step 5:

Heat canola oil in a sauté pan over medium heat.

Slide in the crab cakes and cook two at a time, browning each side thoroughly.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Quality Crab Meat

Always choose fresh, lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture.

It really makes a difference in the final result.

Refrigerate Before Cooking

Cooling the crab cakes lets them firm up, making them easier to cook without falling apart.

It’s a simple step that helps a lot!

Toast Your Bread Crumbs

Toasting bread crumbs before adding them gives an extra layer of crunch.

You can even try panko for a crispier texture.

Keep Your Pan at the Right Heat

Ensure the pan isn’t too hot; medium heat is perfect.

You want to avoid burning the cakes before they cook through.

Experiment with Spices

Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking.

Adding a bit of cayenne can provide a nice kick!

What to Serve with Red Lobster Crab Cakes

Roasted Vegetables

You can never go wrong with roasted vegetables.

Simply season your choice of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or broccoli with some olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Pop them into the oven until they’re perfectly caramelized, and they’ll add that rustic touch to your crab cakes.

Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is a classic pairing with crab cakes!

You might want to grill it to get that smoky flavor, enhancing the natural sweetness of the corn.

Try adding a sprinkle of chili powder or a little garlic parmesan to jazz things up.

Mediterranean Couscous Salad

For something different, a Mediterranean couscous salad works beautifully.

Combine cooked couscous with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette.

This salad is fresh, light, and complements the richness of the crab cakes.

Avocado Mango Salsa

For a tropical spin, you should try avocado mango salsa.

Dice ripe mangoes, avocados, red onion, and add some chopped cilantro.

The bright flavors and creamy texture pair nicely with the savory crab cakes.

Creamy Red Pepper Soup

A warm, creamy red pepper soup can be a cozy side dish.

Blend roasted red peppers with some cream, garlic, and vegetable broth.

Serve it warm alongside your crab cakes for a comforting contrast.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to try different types of crab meat, like canned, fresh, or frozen, for this recipe!

You can switch up the seasonings, replacing Old Bay with Cajun spice for a spicier kick.

For a gluten-free option, substitute bread crumbs with crushed rice crackers or almond flour instead.

Cheese Options

If you like a bit of creaminess, add a handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella directly into the crab mixture.

Try incorporating some parmesan for a hint of sophistication and added depth of flavor.

Substituting Ingredients

Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise for a lighter version without changing the taste.

Swap Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce if you’re aiming for a slightly different savoriness.

Cooking Tips

Pan-frying gives the crab cakes a crispy texture; however, you can bake them at 375°F for about 15 minutes for a healthier choice.

You might want to explore the use of an air fryer to achieve a perfect golden crust while keeping it light.

How to Store Leftover Crab Cakes

When it comes to storing leftover crab cakes, maintaining freshness is key!

One thing you should always do is let the crab cakes cool completely before storing them.

Once cooled, place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for days.

Refrigeration

You can store crab cakes in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Make sure they are wrapped tightly to prevent moisture loss or odors from other foods seeping in.

Freezing

For long-term storage, freezing is your best option.

Wrap each crab cake individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep them safe from freezer burn.

Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for about two months.

Signs of Spoilage

Before enjoying the leftovers, always check for any off smell or unusual appearance.

If anything seems off, it’s best to discard them to be safe.

Crab cakes should always smell fresh and have a nice texture before you serve them again.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Too Much Binder

Using too much binder can really throw off the balance of your crab cakes.

While you might think adding more will make them stay together better, it can actually take away from the taste of the crab.

Stick with the minimal amount to let the crab shine through!

Skipping Refrigeration

Refrigerating the crab mixture lets it firm up, helping the cakes hold their shape during cooking.

If you skip this step, you might end up with crab cakes that fall apart in the pan.

Make sure to chill the mixture to keep them intact while cooking.

Uneven Cooking

Cooking crab cakes can be tricky since you want a crispy crust without overcooking the inside.

If your heat is too high, the outside will burn before the center is cooked through.

Keep your heat at medium to medium-high for even, golden-brown cooking.