Crab and Shrimp Cakes

Here’s a flavorful and crispy recipe for Crab and Shrimp Cakes — golden on the outside, tender and packed with seafood flavor on the inside. Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or on a sandwich bun with slaw!

🦀 Crab and Shrimp Cakes

🍤 Ingredients (Makes ~8 medium cakes)

For the Cakes:

• ½ lb lump crab meat (picked over for shells)

• ½ lb raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, finely chopped

• ½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crispiness)

• ¼ cup finely diced red bell pepper

• ¼ cup finely diced green onion or chives

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: 1–2 tsp chopped fresh parsley or dill

For Frying:

• 2–3 tbsp vegetable or olive oil

• Optional: extra Panko for coating

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

1. Finely chop raw shrimp into small pieces (pea-sized).

2. In a large bowl, combine chopped shrimp and crab meat.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Mixture

1. Add breadcrumbs, bell pepper, green onion, mayonnaise, Dijon, Worcestershire, Old Bay, lemon juice, egg, and herbs.

2. Gently fold everything together until just combined. Don’t overmix to keep the texture light.

Step 3: Shape and Chill

1. Form into patties (about ½ to ¾ inch thick).

2. Optional: Lightly coat with extra Panko for an extra crispy crust.

3. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to help them hold together.

Step 4: Cook the Cakes

1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the cakes and cook 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (shrimp turns opaque).

3. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

🍋 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or remoulade.

• Delicious over a green salad, on a toasted bun, or with a side of coleslaw or roasted veggies.

🔁 Variations

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for spice.

• Use cooked shrimp if you prefer, but raw gives better binding and texture.

• Swap breadcrumbs with crushed Ritz crackers for a richer taste.