If you’re wondering how to cook frozen crab cakes in air fryer, you’re in the right place! This easy air fryer method guarantees crispy, golden crab cakes in just minutes—no oil splatters, no messy clean-up, just perfect seafood bliss!
Crab cakes are a seafood lover’s dream—crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside. But let’s be real, frying them in oil can be messy, and baking them doesn’t always give that golden crunch. That’s where your trusty air fryer comes in!
“Air frying frozen crab cakes is a total game-changer—quicker, crispier, and way less greasy!”
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about cooking frozen crab cakes in an air fryer. From step-by-step instructions to pro tips and common mistakes, by the end, you’ll be making restaurant-quality crab cakes at home with ease. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Why Air Fry Frozen Crab Cakes?
If you’ve never tried air frying frozen crab cakes, you might be wondering—why bother? Why not just bake or pan-fry them? Well, here’s why air frying wins every time.
The Benefits of Using an Air Fryer for Frozen Crab Cakes
- Crispy Perfection: The air fryer circulates hot air around the crab cakes, creating that crispy golden crust without the need for excessive oil.
- Healthier Option: Say goodbye to deep-frying! Air frying cuts down on calories and unhealthy fats while keeping the delicious flavor intact.
- Fast & Convenient: No need to preheat a whole oven or deal with oil splatters—just pop them in, set the timer, and relax.
- No Thawing Required: Frozen crab cakes go straight from the freezer to the air fryer—no waiting, no fuss.
How Air Frying Enhances Flavor and Texture
Ever had a soggy crab cake from the oven? Or a greasy one from the frying pan? Air frying fixes both problems! The hot air crisps up the exterior while keeping the inside juicy and full of crabby goodness.
“It’s like getting restaurant-quality crab cakes without leaving your kitchen. Seriously, you’ll never go back!”
Is Air Frying Healthier Than Other Cooking Methods?
Absolutely! Compared to deep frying, air frying uses up to 85% less oil, making it a much healthier alternative. Plus, it keeps those unhealthy trans fats at bay while preserving all the rich, delicious crab flavors.
Use the Low-Fat & Tasty Salisbury Steak Recipe with Ground Chicken
How to Cook Frozen Crab Cakes in an Air Fryer
Alright, let’s get to the fun part—cooking! Follow these simple steps to make perfect frozen crab cakes in your air fryer.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Frying Crab Cakes
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Lightly grease the basket with a spritz of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the frozen crab cakes in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the basket!
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Check for doneness: The crab cakes should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let them rest for 2 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sauce!
Best Temperature and Cooking Time for Perfect Crab Cakes
Getting the temperature and timing right is key! Here’s a quick reference table:
| Crab Cake Size | Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Small (1-2 oz) | 375°F (190°C) | 8-10 minutes |
| Medium (3-4 oz) | 375°F (190°C) | 10-12 minutes |
| Large (5+ oz) | 375°F (190°C) | 12-15 minutes |
Pro Tip: If your crab cakes are browning too quickly, lower the temperature slightly and extend the cooking time.
Do You Need to Thaw Frozen Crab Cakes Before Air Frying?
Nope! Air fryers are designed to cook food straight from frozen. If you thaw them first, they might fall apart or cook unevenly. Just pop them in frozen, and you’re good to go!
Common Problems When Cooking Frozen Crab Cakes in an Air Fryer
Even though air frying is super easy, sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are some common issues and how to fix them.
Why Are My Crab Cakes Too Dry? (And How to Fix It)
If your crab cakes turn out dry, chances are they were overcooked. The trick is to cook them just until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Using a meat thermometer can help you avoid overcooking.
“Dry crab cakes? Just drizzle some melted butter or a squeeze of lemon on top—it works like magic!”
How to Prevent Crab Cakes from Falling Apart?
Crab cakes can be delicate, especially when flipping them. Here’s how to keep them intact:
- Use a spatula instead of tongs to flip them gently.
- Don’t overcrowd—give them space so they don’t break apart.
- If they seem fragile, try spraying a little cooking oil to help them crisp up faster.
Uneven Cooking Issues: Solutions & Prevention Tips
If some crab cakes are browning too fast while others are undercooked, your air fryer basket might be too full. Make sure they’re in a single layer and flip them halfway through for even cooking.
Best Brands of Frozen Crab Cakes for Air Frying
Not all frozen crab cakes are created equal. Some are packed with crab meat, while others are mostly filler. Here are some of the best brands for air frying:
| Brand | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|
| Phillips Crab Cakes | Real lump crab meat, minimal fillers |
| Gorton’s Maryland Style Crab Cakes | Affordable, great seasoning |
| SeaPak Crab Cakes | Easy to find, crispy texture |
| Trader Joe’s Crab Cakes | All-natural, rich crab flavor |
| Dockside Classics | Budget-friendly, decent quality |
Tips for Making Air-Fried Frozen Crab Cakes Extra Delicious
Air frying frozen crab cakes is already a game-changer, but why stop there? With a few simple tweaks, you can take them from “good” to “absolutely mind-blowing!” Here’s how.
Adding Extra Flavor: Seasoning and Sauces
While most frozen crab cakes come pre-seasoned, a little extra touch can make them even better. Try these:
- Garlic Butter Glaze: Brush crab cakes with melted garlic butter before air frying for a rich, savory finish.
- Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest adds brightness and enhances the seafood flavors.
- Old Bay Seasoning: A pinch of Old Bay gives that classic Maryland crab cake taste.
- Parmesan Crust: Sprinkle grated Parmesan during the last 2 minutes for a cheesy, crispy coating.
Best Dipping Sauces for Air-Fried Crab Cakes
No crab cake is complete without a dipping sauce! Here are some favorites:
| Sauce | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Remoulade | Zesty, creamy, with a hint of spice |
| Tartar Sauce | Classic, tangy, and rich |
| Spicy Mayo | Kicks up the heat with a creamy finish |
| Garlic Aioli | Bold garlic flavor with a smooth texture |
| Cocktail Sauce | Tangy and slightly sweet with a touch of heat |
“Pairing crab cakes with the right sauce is like matching a great wine with dinner—it makes all the difference!”
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Air-Fried Crab Cakes
Crab cakes are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right side dishes creates a full meal. Here are some tasty ideas:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the crab cakes.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a comforting pairing.
- Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini complement crab cakes beautifully.
- Corn on the Cob: A buttery, sweet corn side brings out the sweetness in the crab.
- Toasted Brioche Buns: Turn crab cakes into sliders for a fun twist.
Quick Side Dish Recipe: Try air-frying some seasoned potato wedges alongside your crab cakes for a crispy, satisfying meal!
How to Reheat Leftover Crab Cakes in an Air Fryer
Got leftovers? No problem! The air fryer is the best way to reheat crab cakes without making them soggy.
Step-by-Step Reheating Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the crab cakes in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Heat for 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re fully warmed.
- Let them rest for a minute before serving—enjoy!
“The air fryer keeps reheated crab cakes crispy—no more sad, rubbery leftovers!”
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Frying Frozen Crab Cakes
Still have questions? Here are answers to some of the most common ones.
Can I Cook Homemade Crab Cakes in an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! If you’re making crab cakes from scratch, chill them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before air frying to help them hold their shape.
Can I Air Fry Gluten-Free or Keto-Friendly Crab Cakes?
Yes! Many brands offer gluten-free and keto-friendly crab cakes, or you can make your own using almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
How Do I Store and Freeze Leftover Crab Cakes?
- In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the Freezer: Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Follow the air fryer reheating instructions for the best results.
Final Thoughts
Cooking frozen crab cakes in an air fryer is one of the easiest and tastiest ways to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood at home. It’s quick, crispy, and healthier than frying. Whether you’re making them for a quick lunch or a fancy dinner, these tips will ensure your crab cakes turn out perfect every time.
Pro Tip: If you’re also a fan of salmon cakes, check out our Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe for another classic seafood favorite!
“Once you try air-fried crab cakes, you’ll never go back to any other method!”
Advanced Troubleshooting: Fixing Common Issues with Air-Fried Crab Cakes
Even though air frying frozen crab cakes is pretty straightforward, sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are some common issues and how to fix them.
Why Are My Crab Cakes Not Crispy?
If your crab cakes come out soft instead of crispy, here’s what might be going wrong:
- Too Much Moisture: Some frozen crab cakes contain excess moisture. Try patting them dry with a paper towel before air frying.
- Low Temperature: Make sure you’re cooking at 375°F (190°C)—lower temperatures won’t crisp them properly.
- No Oil Spritz: A light spritz of cooking spray can help them develop that perfect golden crust.
- Overcrowding: If the air can’t circulate properly, your crab cakes won’t crisp up. Cook in batches if needed.
Why Are My Crab Cakes Sticking to the Air Fryer Basket?
There’s nothing worse than losing half your crab cake to the bottom of the basket! Here’s how to prevent sticking:
- Use Cooking Spray: A light coat of non-stick spray before cooking makes a huge difference.
- Use Parchment Paper: Air fryer parchment paper with holes allows air to circulate while preventing sticking.
- Flip Gently: Use a spatula instead of tongs to turn them halfway through.
What If My Crab Cakes Are Undercooked Inside?
Crab cakes should be fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If they’re still cold in the middle:
- Cook Longer: Add an extra 2-3 minutes and check again.
- Lower the Temperature: If the outside is getting too brown before the inside is done, try lowering the heat to 350°F (175°C) and cooking for a few extra minutes.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: This helps ensure even cooking from the start.
If you love air-fried seafood, you might also enjoy our guide on Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer for another quick and easy seafood option.
Creative Air Fryer Crab Cake Variations
Want to take your air-fried crab cakes to the next level? Try these fun variations!
Crab Cake Sliders
- Toast mini brioche buns.
- Add lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of remoulade sauce.
- Place a crispy crab cake in the middle for a delicious seafood sandwich!
Spicy Cajun Crab Cakes
- Sprinkle Cajun seasoning on the crab cakes before air frying.
- Serve with a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick!
Crab Cake Benedict (Brunch Perfection!)
- Air fry your crab cakes and top with a poached egg.
- Drizzle hollandaise sauce over the top.
- Serve with a side of avocado toast for an elegant brunch.
Crab Cake Tacos
- Place sliced crab cakes into warm corn tortillas.
- Add shredded cabbage, mango salsa, and a squeeze of lime.
- Drizzle with garlic aioli for extra flavor!
“Air-fried crab cakes don’t have to be boring—get creative and make your own seafood masterpieces!”
Nutrition Facts for Air-Fried Frozen Crab Cakes
Crab cakes are delicious, but what about the nutrition? Here’s a breakdown of an average store-bought frozen crab cake (per serving):
| Nutrition | Amount (Per Crab Cake) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180-250 kcal |
| Protein | 10-15g |
| Carbohydrates | 15-20g |
| Fats | 8-12g |
| Sodium | 400-600mg |
These values can vary depending on the brand and ingredients used. If you want a lower-carb option, look for keto-friendly or gluten-free crab cakes!
Final Thoughts: Why Air Frying Crab Cakes is the Best Choice
By now, you’ve learned everything you need to know about cooking frozen crab cakes in the air fryer. Let’s do a quick recap:
- Air frying is faster, healthier, and crispier than baking or pan-frying.
- No need to thaw—just cook straight from frozen!
- A light spritz of oil helps achieve the perfect golden crust.
- Pair with delicious sides like roasted veggies, fresh salads, or creamy mashed potatoes.
- Get creative with crab cake sliders, tacos, or even brunch-style eggs benedict!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a pack of frozen crab cakes, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy seafood perfection at home.
“Once you master air-fried crab cakes, you’ll never want to cook them any other way!”
Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments below!
Read more for Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe The Best Hearty Island Meal!