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Easy Air Fryer Crab Cakes

These Easy Air Fryer Crab Cakes are bursting with fresh flavors and are incredibly simple to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Calories: 175
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Crab Cake Ingredients
  • 6 ounces Lump Crab Meat Tender and juicy, the star of this dish.
  • 1/3 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Crispy Japanese breadcrumbs for crunch.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder for the crab cakes.
  • 1 tablespoon Shallot (finely diced) Adds sweet and aromatic flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Mayonnaise Enhances moisture of the crab cakes.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Adds brightness and lifts flavors.
  • 1.5 teaspoons Dijon Mustard Provides a sharp flavor profile.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 1 pinch Cayenne Pepper Adds heat without overpowering.
Crab Cake Sauce Ingredients
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Creamy base for the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Brightens the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Minced Garlic Provides savory flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Adds tang to the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Pickle Juice Lends a pop of acidity.
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce Provides umami depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds color and mild flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Hot Sauce Offers a kick of heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Adds a smoky essence.
  • 1 pinch Cayenne Pepper Just for a hint of spice.
  • Chopped Chives (for garnish) Adds color and flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the lump crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, egg, shallot, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and cayenne pepper. Gently fold the ingredients together.
  2. Divide the mixture into 2 or 4 equal portions and form each into a patty about 3/4 to 1 inch thick.
  3. Preheat your air fryer and spray the basket with nonstick cooking spray.
Cooking
  1. Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook the crab cakes for 6-8 minutes for four smaller patties or 8-10 minutes for two larger patties, flipping halfway through.
  2. While the crab cakes are cooking, whisk together the sauce ingredients in a separate bowl until smooth.
  3. Remove the crab cakes from the air fryer once done, let them cool slightly, and drizzle with sauce. Garnish with additional paprika and chives.

Notes

For best results, use high-quality lump crab meat and consider chilling the patties before cooking. Adjust the heat level to your preference and feel free to customize with other ingredients.