Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle

Few dishes capture the essence of coastal dining quite like crab cakes. Crispy on the outside, tender and flaky inside, and bursting with fresh seafood flavor, crab cakes are a timeless favorite. These Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle elevate the classic version with the irresistible flavors of cheddar cheese, buttery garlic seasoning, and a tangy, velvety lemon butter sauce.

This recipe strikes the perfect balance: hearty enough for dinner, elegant enough for entertaining, and surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a light main course, or part of a seafood feast, these crab cakes are guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold flavors: The cheddar and garlic seasoning take crab cakes to the next level.
• Restaurant-worthy presentation: The lemon butter drizzle adds elegance and a pop of brightness.
• Quick and versatile: Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasonings or serving style.
• Crowd-pleasing: Even those who aren’t huge seafood fans will love the cheesy, buttery notes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crab Cakes:

• 1 lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained well)
• 1 cup Cheddar Bay biscuit mix (or substitute with biscuit mix plus garlic seasoning)
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter + 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Lemon Butter Drizzle:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for balance)
• Pinch of salt and black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crab Cake Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the crab meat, Cheddar Bay biscuit mix, cheddar cheese, green onions, bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the crab mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the crab cakes light and tender.

Step 2: Shape the Crab Cakes

1. Use your hands or a scoop to form 8–10 evenly sized patties.
2. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes—this helps the crab cakes hold their shape during cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Crab Cakes

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Fry the crab cakes in batches, 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
3. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Drizzle

1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and honey (if using).
4. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and keep warm.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Arrange the crab cakes on a platter or individual plates.
• Drizzle generously with warm lemon butter.
• Garnish with extra parsley, lemon wedges, or a sprinkle of paprika for a beautiful finish.

Tips for Success

• Use quality crab meat: Lump crab meat gives the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t overmix: Keep the mixture loose to preserve the crab’s natural flakes.
• Chill before frying: This prevents them from falling apart in the pan.
• Balance the flavors: Taste the mixture before shaping; adjust seasonings as needed.
• Keep warm in the oven: If making multiple batches, place cooked crab cakes in a 200°F (95°C) oven until ready to serve.

What to Serve With Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes

These crab cakes are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Light salads: A citrus arugula salad or coleslaw provides refreshing contrast.
• Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or carrots balance the richness.
• Grains: Quinoa, wild rice, or couscous make them a complete meal.
• Potatoes: Try garlic mashed potatoes, crispy roasted potatoes, or fries.
• Dips and sauces: Beyond lemon butter, pair with tartar sauce, remoulade, or spicy aioli.

Variations to Try

• Spicy kick: Add chopped jalapeños or extra cayenne to the crab mixture.
• Herb lover’s version: Swap parsley for cilantro or dill.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free biscuit mix or panko breadcrumbs.
• Mini crab cakes: Shape into bite-sized patties for appetizers.
• Baked version: Brush with melted butter and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until golden.

Health Benefits

Crab cakes can be indulgent, but they also pack nutritional value:

• Crab meat: Low in fat, high in protein, and rich in vitamins B12 and zinc.
• Cheddar cheese: Adds calcium and protein.
• Bell peppers & parsley: Provide vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Lemon juice: Boosts vitamin C and brightens flavor naturally.

When pan-fried lightly in olive oil, these crab cakes strike a balance between indulgence and wholesomeness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerator: Store cooked crab cakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap uncooked crab cakes tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake instead of pan-frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F until golden brown. They’ll be lighter but still flavorful.

What if I can’t find Cheddar Bay mix?
Use biscuit mix and add garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley.

Can I make them dairy-free?
Skip the cheddar and use a plant-based butter substitute for the drizzle.

What crab meat is best?
Fresh lump crab is ideal, but canned or refrigerated pasteurized crab meat works well too.

Final Thoughts

These Cheddar Bay Crab Cakes with Lemon Butter Drizzle are a flavorful twist on a beloved classic. The cheddar and garlic seasoning add richness, while the lemon butter sauce provides a refreshing balance that makes each bite irresistible. Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or holiday entertaining, they’re a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable.

Whether you serve them as a main course or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these crab cakes deliver restaurant-quality taste right from your own kitchen.