I love the kind of recipes that let me whip up something delicious without much effort, especially on busy nights. Crab cakes have always been a favorite of mine, but when I don’t have the time (or energy) to make them from scratch, I rely on frozen crab cakes. And guess what? The air fryer turns them into golden, crispy bites that taste almost as if they were freshly pan-fried.
Using the air fryer not only makes them quick and fuss-free, but it also cuts down on the mess of traditional frying. The best part is, they cook evenly and come out beautifully crisp on the outside while staying moist and tender on the inside. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can have a restaurant-quality appetizer or meal straight from your freezer to your table in under 15 minutes.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Frozen crab cakes: These are the star of the show! Whether you pick them up from your favorite grocery store or have a batch in your freezer from a local seafood shop, frozen crab cakes are flavorful and packed with tender crab meat. The air fryer gives them that perfect crunch without drying them out.
Cooking spray or oil mist: A light spritz of cooking spray or oil mist helps the crab cakes achieve an evenly crisp exterior. This little step makes all the difference in getting that golden-brown finish without excess grease.
Lemon wedges (optional): A squeeze of lemon brightens the flavor and cuts through the richness of the crab cakes. It adds that fresh, zesty balance that takes them up a notch.
Dipping sauce (optional): Crab cakes pair wonderfully with sauces like tartar, aioli, or even a spicy remoulade. A creamy or tangy dip complements the crunchy texture and savory crab filling.
Ingredients List
- 4 frozen crab cakes
- Cooking spray or oil mist
- Lemon wedges (optional)
- Dipping sauce of choice (optional)
How to Make Frozen Crab Cakes in Air Fryer
Step 1: Preheat the air fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the crab cakes begin cooking immediately for a crisp exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the crab cakes
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the frozen crab cakes in a single layer, leaving space between them so air circulates evenly.
Step 3: Air fry until golden
Cook the crab cakes for 10–12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. They should be golden brown on the outside and heated all the way through in the center.
Step 4: Serve and enjoy
Carefully remove the crab cakes from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute before serving. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and your favorite dipping sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—airflow is key for even cooking.
- If your crab cakes are extra thick, you may need to add 2–3 minutes of cook time.
- Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Preheating the air fryer is worth the extra step to get a crispy exterior.
- For added flavor, brush the crab cakes lightly with melted butter before air frying.
- Pair with a fresh salad or roasted veggies to make it a full meal.
FAQs
Can I cook thawed crab cakes in the air fryer?
Yes, but they’ll cook faster. If thawed, reduce the cooking time to about 7–8 minutes, flipping halfway.
Do I need to defrost crab cakes before air frying?
No, this recipe is designed for frozen crab cakes. Straight from freezer to air fryer works perfectly.
What sauces go best with crab cakes?
Tartar sauce, spicy aioli, remoulade, or even a simple squeeze of lemon are all excellent choices.
Can I reheat leftover crab cakes in the air fryer?
Definitely! Just heat them at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes until warmed through.
Can I make this recipe with homemade crab cakes?
Absolutely. If they’re freshly made and not frozen, shorten the cook time slightly to prevent overcooking.