Name: Air Fryer Crab Cakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces lump crab meat (drained if canned); 1/4 cup keto cracker crumbs; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 green onion, sliced; 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon mayonnaise; 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1/4 cup mayonnaise (for spicy mayo); 1 teaspoon sriracha; 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

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These air fryer crab cakes are golden, crispy, and loaded with fresh crab flavor — all without deep frying. Made with simple ingredients and served with a zesty, creamy spicy mayo, they’re a quick and healthier take on a seafood classic.

Air Fryer Crab Cakes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air fried for less oil and fewer calories
Crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside
Quick prep and fast cook time
Great for appetizers, light lunches, or elegant dinners
Spicy mayo adds the perfect zing

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crab Cakes:

8 ounces lump crab meat (drained if canned)
1/4 cup keto cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 green onion, sliced
1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or other fish seasoning)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 large egg
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons melted butter

For the Spicy Mayo:

1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon sriracha
1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

directions

In a large bowl, gently break up the crab meat with a fork.
Add the cracker crumbs, parsley, green onion, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix to combine.
Stir in the egg, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until the mixture is moist and cohesive.
Form the mixture into 4 patties, about 3/4 to 1 inch thick. Place them on a wax paper-lined plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray or brush the air fryer rack with oil.
Brush both sides of the crab cakes with melted butter. Place them in the air fryer basket or on the rack.
Air fry for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
While the cakes cook, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, and Cajun seasoning for the spicy mayo.
Serve crab cakes warm with lemon wedges and a dollop of spicy mayo.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 crab cakes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: Approximately 290 kcal per crab cake

Variations

Use gluten-free cracker crumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free version
Add finely chopped red bell pepper for color and sweetness
Swap Old Bay for lemon pepper or garlic herb seasoning
Mix in a bit of lemon zest for a citrusy note
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo in the spicy sauce for a lighter option

storage/reheating

Store leftover crab cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes or until warmed through and crispy
Spicy mayo can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days in a sealed container
Avoid microwaving to preserve the crispy exterior

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab meat?

Yes, but real lump crab meat gives the best flavor and texture. Adjust seasoning as imitation crab is sweeter.

What can I use instead of cracker crumbs?

Almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs are great substitutes.

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–18 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

Do I have to chill the crab cakes?

Chilling helps them hold their shape while cooking. It’s highly recommended.

How spicy is the mayo?

It has a mild kick. Adjust the sriracha and Cajun seasoning to your heat preference.

Can I freeze crab cakes?

Yes. Freeze uncooked crab cakes on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Air fry straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cook time.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, if you use keto-friendly cracker crumbs or almond flour and a low-carb mayo.

Can I make mini crab cakes for appetizers?

Absolutely. Shape into 8–10 smaller patties and reduce cooking time to about 6–8 minutes.

What side dishes go well with crab cakes?

Great sides include coleslaw, arugula salad, roasted veggies, or corn on the cob.

How do I keep the crab cakes from falling apart?

Be gentle when mixing and forming. Chilling the patties before cooking helps them stay together.

Conclusion

Air fryer crab cakes are a deliciously crispy, healthier version of a seafood favorite. With bold flavor, quick prep, and a spicy dipping sauce, they’re ideal for everything from weeknight meals to dinner parties. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is a winner every time.