How to Cook Frozen Crab Cakes in Air Fryer

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cooked crab cakes
photo by nooschi licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Crab cakes, a treat for seafood enthusiasts, are getting a new twist – air frying straight from the freezer. 

What You’ll Love About Air Fryer Crab Cakes

Crispy Exterior, Tender Interior: The air fryer’s circulating hot air ensures that your crab cakes achieve that perfect crunch on the outside while maintaining a moist and flavorful interior.

Healthier Option: Compared to traditional deep frying, air frying uses significantly less oil, making your crab cakes a healthier choice without compromising on taste.

Time-Saving: Forget about waiting for the oven to preheat or dealing with messy oil. The air fryer gets the job done faster, making it an ideal kitchen companion for those busy weeknights.

Classic Air Fried Frozen Crab Cakes Recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 frozen crab cakes
  • Cooking spray or 1 tablespoon of oil for misting

Instructions

  • Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes.
  • Arrange Crab Cakes: Place the 4 frozen crab cakes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching to discourage the buildup of moisture.
  • Cooking Time: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
  • Check for Doneness: Ensure the crab cakes have a golden-brown crust, and their internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
  • Serve: Carefully remove the crab cakes, let them cool for a minute, and serve with your chosen side dishes.

What Side Dishes Can You Serve With This Dish?

Pairing your air-fried crab cakes with the right side dishes can elevate the dining experience. Here are some excellent choices:

Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf: The citrusy and herby flavors complement the richness of the crab cakes, creating a well-balanced combination.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of the fries contrasts beautifully with the savory crab cakes, adding both texture and flavor to your meal.

Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the crab cakes.

Remoulade Sauce: While not a side dish per se, a tangy remoulade sauce is the perfect dipping companion for your crab cakes, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Final Words

Cooking frozen crab cakes in an air fryer is a game-changer, offering a quick and healthier alternative to traditional methods. Pair them with the suggested side dishes, and you’ll have a delightful meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Enjoy your crispy crab cakes straight from the air fryer to your plate!

cooked crab cakes

Classic Air Fried Frozen Crab Cakes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 frozen crab cakes
  • 1 tbsp oil for misting, or cooking spray

Instructions
 

  • Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes.
  • Arrange Crab Cakes: Place the 4 frozen crab cakes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching to discourage the buildup of moisture.
  • Cooking Time: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
  • Check for Doneness: Ensure the crab cakes have a golden-brown crust, and their internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
  • Serve: Carefully remove the crab cakes, let them cool for a minute, and serve with your chosen side dishes.

Notes

*photo by nooschi licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0