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Crab Cake Recipe Paula Deen

This crab cake recipe, inspired by Paula Deen, is a Southern classic made with fresh lump crabmeat, buttery crackers, and bold, simple seasonings. I pan-fry them to golden perfection for a crispy outside and tender, flavorful inside. With just 25 minutes from start to finish, it’s an easy yet impressive dish perfect for any meal. Whether you serve them with lemon wedges, remoulade sauce, or a fresh salad, these crab cakes deliver rich flavor and comforting texture in every bite.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Appetizer or Main
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb fresh lump crabmeat picked over for shells
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 egg lightly beaten
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp hot sauce I like a dash of Tabasco
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
  • 1/2 cup finely crushed buttery crackers like Ritz
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp butter for frying
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Spatula​
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Plate lined with paper towels

Method
 

Step 1: Mix the Base
  1. In a large bowl, I gently combined the mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and Old Bay seasoning until smooth. This base gives the crab cakes that classic Southern zing.
Step 2: Fold in the Crab
  1. I carefully folded in the lump crabmeat and green onions. I didn’t break up the meat too much—I wanted big chunks in every bite.
Step 3: Add the Binder
  1. Next, I stirred in the crushed crackers. They soak up the moisture and help hold everything together. I seasoned the mix with a little salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Shape the Cakes
  1. Using my hands, I formed the mixture into six evenly sized patties. I kept them thick and tight, so they wouldn’t fall apart in the pan.
Step 5: Sear to Perfection
  1. I melted the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, I added the crab cakes and cooked each side for about 4–5 minutes, until they turned golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
  1. After frying, I placed them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess butter. I served them hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

If you refrigerate the formed cakes for 30 minutes before cooking, they firm up even more and hold together better in the pan. I do this when I have the extra time—it makes a difference.