Copycat Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Cakes

Restaurant-Quality Crab Cakes Made at Home

Craving that crispy, golden crab cake from Joe’s Crab Shack but don’t feel like dining out? Good news — you can recreate the magic at home with this Copycat Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Cakes recipe. Juicy, flavorful, and packed with lump crab meat, these crab cakes are everything you love about the original — without the drive or the tab.

Whether you're planning a seafood-themed dinner, a special appetizer, or just want to elevate your weeknight meal, this recipe will have you feeling like you're dining by the shore, cocktail sauce in hand.

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🦀 Why You’ll Love These Crab Cakes

Joe’s Crab Shack is famous for its no-frills, flavor-packed seafood dishes, and their crab cakes are a standout. They're known for being:

• Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside

• Loaded with real crab meat (not just filler!)

• Seasoned perfectly with a savory, slightly spicy kick

• Easy to make and quick to cook — ideal for any skill level

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🧂 Ingredients

For the Crab Cakes:

• 1 lb lump crab meat (fresh or refrigerated, picked over for shells)

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 egg, lightly beaten

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 2 green onions, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter (for frying)

Optional for Serving:

• Tartar sauce or remoulade

• Lemon wedges

• Fresh herbs for garnish

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Make the Crab Cake Mixture

In a large bowl, gently combine the crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay, garlic powder, onion powder, green onions, and parsley. Mix until just combined — be careful not to break up the crab too much.

2. Shape the Cakes

Form the mixture into 6–8 patties, about 1-inch thick. Place them on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cakes hold their shape while cooking.

3. Pan-Fry the Crab Cakes

Heat the oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the crab cakes and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp on the outside.

4. Serve

Serve warm with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or your favorite seafood dip. Pair with coleslaw, salad, or seasoned fries for a restaurant-style meal at home.

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💡 Pro Tips

• Use real lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture — canned crab can work in a pinch but won’t give the same richness.

• Chill the mixture before frying to prevent crumbling.

• Want to bake instead? Place crab cakes on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

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🍽 Perfect Pairings

These copycat crab cakes go well with:

• Corn on the cob or Cajun corn

• Creamy coleslaw

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a cold beer

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🥄 Final Thoughts

With this Copycat Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Cakes recipe, you can enjoy that seaside, beachy flavor in your own kitchen — no travel required. Whether you’re serving them up as a starter, main dish, or party appetizer, these crab cakes are guaranteed to impress. Crispy, savory, and full of real crab meat, they're everything a great crab cake should be.