crab cakes have a delightful crunch thanks to a crispy pretzel coating that adds the perfect salty twist. They’re easy to make and guaranteed to impress at any gathering or weeknight dinner.
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time15 min
Total Time25 min
Difficulty
Easy
Cooking Techniques
Use fresh crab meat for the best flavor and texture.
Press the pretzel crumbs firmly onto the cakes to help them stick during cooking.
Chill the formed cakes in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before frying to prevent them from falling apart.
Ingredients
0/8
Why This Meal Is A Winner
These crab cakes have a wonderful crunch thanks to the pretzel crust. The salty, nutty flavor of the pretzels pairs perfectly with the sweet, tender crab meat. They are a fun twist on a classic dish that will impress any guest.
Step 1
Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook it gently until it’s soft and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, set it aside to cool a bit.
Step 2
In a bowl, mix together the crushed pretzels, garlic powder, paprika, and pepper. Add in the crabmeat, the egg, and the sautéed onions. Give everything a good mix until it’s well combined, then shape the mixture into small patties that fit nicely in the palm of your hand.
Step 3
Heat the remaining butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Once they’re crispy and cooked through, they’re ready to serve. Enjoy!
180
people cooked this recipe
ByDaniel Wilson
Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.
Perfect Side Pairings
Serve with a tangy remoulade or a lemon aioli for a bright contrast. Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to keep the meal light and balanced. These also work well as an appetizer with cocktail sauce.
How To Refrigerate This Dish
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to maintain the crispy crust. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pretzel coating soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh crab instead of canned crabmeat?
Yes, fresh crab can be used. Just make sure it’s cooked and drained well before mixing.
How do I crush pretzels for the recipe?
Place pretzels in a sealed bag and crush them with a rolling pin or pulse briefly in a food processor.
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
What can I use instead of butter for cooking?
You can substitute butter with olive oil or a neutral cooking oil.
How do I know when the crab cakes are fully cooked?
They should be golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 4 minutes per side.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness.
Is there a way to make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pretzels or crushed gluten-free crackers as a substitute.
What sides pair well with these crab cakes?
Fresh salad, coleslaw, or a tangy dipping sauce like tartar or remoulade work great.
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