Dungeness Crab Cakes Recipe for a True Coastal Experience
Delicious Dungeness Crab Cakes Recipe lovers know there’s nothing quite like the sweet, delicate flavor of this Pacific Northwest treasure. Whether you’re a coastal native or just craving something light and flavorful, this recipe captures everything summer cooking should be—fresh, simple, and satisfying.
From the docks of Oregon to seaside shacks in Washington, Dungeness crab is a local icon. I first fell in love with it during a family trip up the coast, and though my Thompson’s Italian dishes were more Mediterranean, her love of seafood inspired this creation. This Dungeness crab cakes recipe is an homage to summer days, coastal flavors, and keeping things uncomplicated.
🌊 What Makes Dungeness Crab So Special?
Caught along the rugged West Coast, particularly in Oregon, Washington, and Northern California, Dungeness crab is a staple of the region’s culinary identity. Named after the town of Dungeness, Washington, this delicacy was first commercially harvested there
Unlike other crabs, Dungeness offers large chunks of meat, a naturally sweet profile, and a delicate texture that doesn’t need to be masked by heavy seasoning. It’s a chef’s dream and a home cook’s best friend. If you’re not local to the West Coast, you can often find Dungeness frozen at specialty markets—just make sure it’s wild-caught and sustainably sourced.
For more insight, the Oregon Sea Grant offers a fascinating look into its ecological and commercial significance.
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 lb of fresh Dungeness crab meat, carefully shelled and cleaned.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, plus more for coating
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Tip: Want to make your own spice blend? Try this Old Bay substitute.
🍳 Instructions
1. Mix It Up
Carefully fold the crab meat, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay, cayenne, lemon juice, and parsley together. Then, add the breadcrumbs and mix until just combined. This Dungeness crab cakes recipe uses just enough binder to hold the cakes together while keeping the sweet crab flavor front and center.
2. Shape and Coat
Form into 8 small or 4 large patties. Press gently into extra breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
3. Chill
Refrigerate patties for 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Cook to Golden
Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet. Sear cakes 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and warmed through.
5. Serve Immediately
Garnish with lemon wedges or citrus aioli (see below).
🍋 Citrus Aioli (Perfect Pairing)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix until smooth and chill before serving. For more technique tips, see Bon Appétit’s guide to aioli.
🥗 Summer Pairings
Pair your Dungeness crab cakes recipe with:
- Fennel and apple slaw for crunch and freshness
- Grilled sourdough brushed with olive oil
- Oregon Pinot Gris or Sauvignon Blanc – find perfect pairings at Wine Folly
🧂 Recipe Variations
Looking to tweak your Dungeness crab cakes recipe?
- Add chopped jalapeños for heat.
- Swap parsley with fresh dill or chives.
- Use almond flour and gluten-free panko for a GF version.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this Dungeness crab cakes recipe?
Yes! Form into patties, freeze them on a tray, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for storage. Cook from frozen or thaw overnight.
Can I use canned crab?
Fresh is best. If using canned, drain thoroughly. Still, nothing compares to the real Dungeness flavor.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Use a toaster oven or skillet. Avoid microwaving—they’ll get soggy.
Can I prep this Dungeness crab cakes recipe ahead?
You can chill the uncooked patties for up to 24 hours before cooking—perfect for stress-free entertaining.
🧾 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fat: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
