Here’s a copycat-style recipe inspired by Joe’s Crab Shack–style Crab Cakes, adapted perfectly for the air fryer. Crispy outside, tender and crab-forward inside—without deep frying.
Air Fryer Joe’s Crab Shack–Style Crab Cakes (Famous-Style Recipe)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: ~30 minutes
Servings: 4 (makes 6–8 crab cakes)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy golden crust without excess oil
- Packed with real crab flavor (not bready)
- Quick and easy in the air fryer
- Just like restaurant-style crab cakes—lighter and healthier
Ingredients
Crab Cakes
- 1 lb (450 g) lump crab meat (fresh or pasteurized, drained)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp melted butter or olive oil (for brushing)
Optional Dipping Sauce (Joe’s-style)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Crab Mixture
In a large bowl, gently mix:
- Egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and spices.
Fold in:
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Crab meat (very gently to keep chunks intact)
Shape the Crab Cakes
- Form into 6–8 patties (about ¾-inch thick).
- Place on a tray, cover, and refrigerate 15 minutes (helps them hold together).
Air Fry the Crab Cakes
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray or brush basket with oil.
- Brush tops of crab cakes with melted butter or olive oil.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Make the Sauce
Mix all sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Chill until ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Coleslaw
- French fries or sweet potato fries
- Corn on the cob
- Fresh lemon wedges
Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a seafood appetizer platter.
Pro Tips for Restaurant-Quality Crab Cakes
- Use lump crab meat for best texture
- Don’t overmix—keep those crab chunks intact
- Chilling before cooking prevents crumbling
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Joe’s Crab Shack–Style Crab Cakes deliver that famous coastal flavor—crispy, juicy, and packed with real crab—without the deep fryer. Ideal for a quick gourmet meal at home.
