The Family Behind Maryland's Best Crab Cakes

Munchies

Video Stats

Channel: Munchies
Host: Munchies
Published: Aug 27, 2025
Views: 209.8k

Recipe Overview

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 20 min
Difficulty: Intermediate
Serves: 4

Overview

The Maryland Crab Cake is a true icon of Baltimore cuisine, and this recipe captures its essence beautifully. Using jumbo lump crab meat, the cakes are packed with flavor and have a delightful texture that showcases the quality of the seafood. The addition of Old Bay seasoning gives it that signature kick that Marylanders love, while the imperial sauce adds a creamy richness that binds everything together.

What makes this crab cake stand out is the careful preparation that ensures the crab meat remains the star of the dish. The gentle mixing technique preserves the lumps of crab, preventing them from breaking apart, which is crucial for achieving that perfect bite. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks who want to bring a taste of Maryland into their kitchens.

Serving these crab cakes at a family gathering or a casual dinner will surely impress your guests. Pair them with a simple salad or some coleslaw, and you have a meal that feels both special and comforting. The love and tradition behind this dish are palpable, making it not just a recipe but a piece of culinary history that connects families and communities in Baltimore and beyond.

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

1
02:03

Put bread crumbs into a food processor to make them nice and flaky.

2
02:11

Add parsley and Old Bay seasoning to the bread crumbs.

02:11

Tip: Use fresh parsley for added flavor.

3
02:20

Toss in 10 lbs of jumbo lump crab meat and mix for consistency.

4
02:29

Combine egg, mayonnaise, dry mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.

02:34

Tip: Combine spices in the imperial sauce for a balanced taste.

5
02:41

Gently toss the crab mixture with the imperial sauce.

02:46

Tip: Gently toss the mixture to keep the crab lumps intact.

03:02

Tip: Consistency in preparation ensures customers receive the same quality every time.

Ingredients

Serves: 4
Mayonnaise2 tbsp
Egg1
Old Bay Seasoning1 tbsp
Bread Crumbs1 cup
Parsley1 tbsp
Dry Mustard1 tsp
Worcestershire Sauce1 tsp
Hot Sauce1 tsp
Allergen Alerts

Ingredient: Shellfish

    → Substitution: Crab Alternatives

Ingredient: Eggs

    → Substitution: Flaxseed Meal + Water

Ingredient: Dairy

    → Substitution: Vegan Mayonnaise

Nutrition

Calories
450
kcal per serving
Protein
30
per serving
Carbs
10
per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Intermediate
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.

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Interesting Tidbits

  • Maryland crab cakes are known for their use of jumbo lump crab meat, which is prized for its sweet flavor and large size.
  • Old Bay seasoning is a classic spice blend used in Maryland cuisine, particularly for seafood dishes.
  • The imperial sauce used in crab cakes typically includes mayonnaise, egg, and various spices, enhancing the dish's richness.
  • Costas Inn has been a family-owned business for over 51 years, serving the Baltimore community with pride.