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In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to make crab cakes with canned crab in just a few easy steps. This recipe is simple and easy to follow, and the results are delicious. So why not give this recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you!

What Is Crab Cake?
A crab cake is a type of seafood cake that is made out of crab meat. Crab cakes can be either fried or baked, and they are usually served with a dipping sauce or mayonnaise. Crab cakes are popular in the United States, and they are often served as an appetizer or a main course.
Origin of Crab Cakes
There is no definitive answer to where crab cakes originated, but they are believed to have been invented in Maryland.
One story claims that a local tavern owner named John Faidley created the dish in the 1930s, and it quickly became popular among locals and visitors alike. Another story suggests that a chef at a Baltimore hotel came up with the recipe in the early 20th century. Regardless of who invented them, there’s no doubt that crab cakes are a Maryland specialty.
Today, crab cakes can be found all over the country, but they’re still considered a delicacy in Maryland. The most popular way to prepare them is with lump crab meat, which is sourced from whole crabs. They can be served as an appetizer, entrée, or side dish.
How to Make Crab Cakes with Canned Crab?
Making crab cakes is a popular way to use up canned crab, and it’s a dish that can be whipped up in no time at all. The key to making perfect crab cakes is not to overmix the ingredients – just mix them enough so that the crab is evenly distributed. Here’s how to make crab cakes with canned crab:
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 ounce) can of crab meat, drained
- 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup of diced red onion
- One teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 cup of panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the crab, mayonnaise, red onion, and Old Bay seasoning.
- Add the panko bread crumbs and mix until evenly distributed.
- Form the mixture into cakes about 1 inch thick and 2 inches in diameter.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place the crab cakes in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

What Kind of Sauce Goes with Crab Cakes?
This is a question that has many different answers, as there are many different types of crab cakes. Some people might like a tartar sauce or a Remoulade sauce with their crab cakes, while others might prefer a more basic mayonnaise.
There are also variations on these sauces, such as adding horseradish to the tartar sauce or adding Dijon mustard to the mayonnaise. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide what kind of sauce they would like with their crab cakes.
What to Serve with Crab Cakes?
One of the questions that often comes up when it comes to crab cakes is what to serve them with. Here are a few ideas:
- Aioli: This garlic mayonnaise sauce is a perfect accompaniment to crab cakes. It’s easy to make and can be tailored to your taste.
- Sour cream and chives: Another simple sauce, sour cream and chives pair well with the rich flavor of crab cakes.
- Pickled vegetables: If you’re looking for something a little different, try serving your crab cakes with some pickled vegetables. They add a nice crunch and tartness that can balance out the richness of the crab meat.
- Cucumber salad: A classic cucumber salad is always a refreshing choice to serve with crab cakes. It’s light and cool, and the flavors pair well with the sweetness of the crab meat.
- Tomato salad: Another classic pairing, a simple tomato salad can be a great way to round out your meal. The acidity of the tomatoes is a nice contrast to the richness of the crab cake.
- Green beans: If you’re looking for something a little more substantial, try serving your crab cakes with some green beans. They’re a healthy and tasty option that goes well with the seafood flavor of the crab cakes.

If left over crab cakes, how should they be stored?
If you have any leftover crab cakes, it is important to store them properly so that they stay fresh. Ideally, they should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This will help to keep them moist and prevent them from drying out. They can be enjoyed for up to two days after they are made.
Important Tips When Making Crab Cake With Canned Crab
If you are looking for an easy and convenient way to make crab cakes, using canned crab is the best option. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind when preparing them. Here are some tips:
- Be sure to drain the canned crab thoroughly. You don’t want any excess water in your crab cakes, as it will make them soggy.
- Mix the crab with some binding ingredients such as bread crumbs or cracker crumbs. This will help hold the cake together.
- Add some flavorings to the mixture, such as Old Bay seasoning, salt and pepper, garlic powder, etc.
- Form the crab mixture into small patties and then coat them in some additional bread crumbs or cracker crumbs.
- Fry the crab cakes in hot oil until golden brown.
Nutrition in a Crab Cake
Nutrition facts for a crab cake vary depending on the recipe used. Typically, they contain around 200 calories per serving, with 10 grams of fat and 15 grams of protein. They also provide significant amounts of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B12, selenium, and magnesium.
Crab cakes are a great source of dietary protein, and can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet. They are especially beneficial for people who are looking to add more seafood to their diet. Crab cakes can be enjoyed as part of a healthy meal or snack, and are a tasty way to get your daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids.
FAQs on How to Make Crab Cakes with Canned Crab
Should you rinse canned crab meat?
There is a lot of debate on this topic, with some people insisting you should rinse canned crab meat before using it and others saying it’s not necessary. So, what’s the right answer?
Well, as with most things, it depends. Rinsing the crab meat is definitely recommended if it has a high level of sodium. However, if the crab meat is lower in sodium or doesn’t have any added salt, then there’s no need to rinse it. In fact, rinsing can actually remove some of the flavor.
So, whether or not you should rinse canned crab meat really depends on the product itself. If it’s high in sodium, then rinsing is definitely recommended. If it’s not, then you can choose to rinse or not, depending on your own preferences.
No matter what, though, be sure to check the ingredients list before using canned crab meat, as some products may have added salt. If there is salt added, then rinsing is definitely necessary in order to reduce the sodium content.
In general, though, rinsing canned crab meat is not always necessary – it just depends on the product itself. Just be sure to read the ingredients list and follow any specific instructions that are given.
And, of course, taste the crab meat before using it to see if it needs any additional seasoning. With a little bit of experimentation, you’ll be able to figure out the best way to prepare canned crab meat for your own personal preferences.
Cooking crab cakes with canned crab meat is as good as fresh crab meat?
The answer is yes – for the most part.
Canned crab meat is a cheaper and more accessible alternative to fresh crab meat, so it’s a good option if you’re cooking for a large group or want to save money. That said, there is a difference in flavor and texture between cooked crab cakes made with fresh crab meat and those made with canned crab meat.
If you have the time, it’s worth making your crab cakes with fresh crab meat instead of canned. However, if you’re short on time or money, canned crab meat will still result in a delicious dish.
How do you make crab cakes stick together?
There are a few different methods that you can use in order to make crab cakes stick together. One popular method is to use breadcrumbs. You can either mix the breadcrumbs into the crab mixture or press them onto the outside of the cakes.
Another option is to use an egg wash. The eggs will help to hold the crab cakes together and give them a nice golden color when they are cooked.
You can also try using a mayonnaise based sauce as a binding agent. The sauce will add flavor and moisture to the crab cakes and help them stay together. Whichever method you choose, be sure to refrigerate the crab cakes for at least an hour before cooking so that they will hold their shape.
Is it better to broil or fry crab cakes?
Some people prefer to broil their crab cakes because they feel that it gives them a better texture. The outside of the cake becomes crispy, while the inside remains soft and fluffy. This can be a desirable trait for some people, as it allows them to enjoy the different textures of the crab meat.
However, other people believe that frying their crab cakes is the best way to go. This is because they feel that it gives the crab cakes a better flavor. The outside of the cake becomes crispy and golden brown, while the inside remains soft and juicy. This is a flavor that many people enjoy, as it is not as dry as broiling can be.
Is canned crab good to eat?
The truth is that canned crab can be good to eat, but there are some things to keep in mind.
The first thing to consider is the quality of the crab. When it comes to canned crab, you generally get what you pay for. So, if you are looking for a high-quality product, be prepared to pay a higher price.
Another thing to consider is the freshness of the crab. Canned crab can be a convenient way to have seafood on hand, but it is important to make sure that it has been stored properly and has not gone bad.
Finally, remember that canned crab is high in sodium. So, if you are watching your salt intake, you may want to limit your consumption.
Canned crab can be a healthy and convenient way to enjoy seafood. Just make sure to select a high-quality product and watch your sodium intake.
What is the best oil to fry crab cakes in?
There is no definitive answer to this question as different cooks have different opinions on the best oil to fry crab cakes in.
However, some oils that are commonly recommended for frying crab cakes include peanut oil, canola oil, and grapeseed oil. These oils have a high smoke point, meaning they can be heated to a high temperature before they start to smoke. This helps to ensure that your crab cakes will be crispy and golden brown.
However, you can also use other types of oils if you prefer. Olive oil has a lower smoke point than the oils listed above, but it still works well for frying crab cakes. Just be sure not to heat it too hot or it will start to smoke. Alternatively, you could try using a cooking oil with a higher smoke point, such as avocado oil or sunflower oil.
No matter which oil you choose, be sure to heat it in a large frying pan over medium-high heat before adding the crab cakes. This will help them to cook evenly and get crispy on the outside.

How do you know when crab cakes are done?
One way to tell when crab cakes are done is to look at their color. Crab cakes should be golden brown when they are finished cooking.
Another way to tell is to use a fork or knife to cut into one of the crab cakes. If the inside is nice and white, then they are done.
Lastly, you can also check the internal temperature of the crab cake with a food thermometer. Crab cakes should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Summary
Crab cakes are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be made with canned crab. In this blog post, we’ve shown you how to make crab cakes using canned crab meat. We hope you enjoy this recipe!
Check out other recipes at Ohsnap Cupcakes