Craving that sweet, flaky crabmeat but short on time? We’ve all been there, staring at the freezer aisle, overwhelmed by a sea of pre-made crab cakes. Picking the perfect one can feel like a gamble. Will it be mostly filler? Will it taste like the ocean or just… not much at all? It’s a common frustration for anyone who loves a good crab cake without the fuss of making them from scratch.
But don’t despair! You don’t have to settle for a disappointing meal. This guide is here to be your trusty sidekick in the quest for delicious store-bought crab cakes. We’ll walk you through what to look for, what to avoid, and how to spot the hidden gems.
By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident choosing a crab cake that’s bursting with real crab flavor and has that perfect texture. Get ready to say goodbye to bland disappointments and hello to easy, satisfying crab cake dinners! Let’s dive in and uncover the secrets to finding the best store-bought crab cakes.
Our Top 5 Store Bought Crab Cakes Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Store Bought Crab Cakes Detailed Reviews
1. Fresh Maryland Crab Cakes
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready for a taste of the Chesapeake Bay with iLoveCrabs’ Fresh Maryland Crab Cakes. These aren’t just any crab cakes; they’re a gourmet experience packed with jumbo lump crab meat. You’ll taste the difference because they use the best, freshest Maryland crab. Each cake is a testament to quality seafood, designed to make any meal special.
What We Like:
- Packed with real, large pieces of juicy jumbo lump Maryland crab meat.
- Very little filler means you get more pure crab flavor in every bite.
- Handmade with a secret blend of spices and herbs for a perfectly balanced taste.
- Great for parties or just a delicious treat for yourself.
- Restaurant-quality seafood delivered right to your home.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price might be a bit high for some budgets.
- They are so good, you might wish you had ordered more!
If you love crab, these are a must-try. They truly deliver a premium seafood experience that’s hard to beat.
2. Fresh Maryland Crab Cakes
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready for a taste of the Chesapeake Bay with iLoveCrabs’ Fresh Maryland Crab Cakes. These aren’t your average crab cakes. They’re packed with jumbo lump crab meat, meaning you get big, juicy pieces of sweet crab in every bite. iLoveCrabs makes these by hand, using their special recipe with just the right amount of spices and herbs. They keep the filler to a minimum, so the delicious crab flavor really shines. These gourmet crab cakes are perfect for making any meal feel special, whether it’s a fancy dinner party or just a treat for yourself.
What We Like:
- Packed with generous amounts of jumbo lump Maryland crab meat.
- “No filler” means you taste the crab, not breadcrumbs.
- Handmade with a delicious signature blend of spices and herbs.
- Delivers a gourmet, restaurant-quality seafood experience at home.
- Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 1.5 oz size might be a bit small for those who love a big crab cake.
- Availability might be limited due to their handmade nature.
If you’re a true crab lover, these iLoveCrabs cakes are a must-try. They deliver fantastic flavor and quality straight to your kitchen.
3. Phillips Frozen Signature Crab Cake
Rating: 8.5/10
The Phillips Frozen Signature Crab Cake is a convenient option for seafood lovers. Each cake weighs 3.25 ounces, and you get 12 in a case. This makes them easy to store and prepare when you want a quick and tasty meal.
What We Like:
- These crab cakes offer a satisfying crab flavor.
- They are simple to cook, either in an oven or on a stovetop.
- The consistent size of each cake makes portioning easy.
- Having a dozen in a case is great for stocking up for several meals.
- They pair well with many different side dishes.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some might find the texture a little softer than freshly made.
- The crab meat is not always in large chunks.
- More detailed cooking instructions on the packaging would be helpful.
Overall, Phillips Frozen Signature Crab Cakes are a good choice for a convenient and tasty seafood dinner. They deliver a good crab experience with minimal effort.
4. Gemscream 9 Pcs Crab Cake Topper Crab Boil Party Decorations Supplies Plastic Potato Corn Metal Pail for Theme Birthday Festival Potluck
Rating: 9.4/10
Bring the fun of a crab boil to your next party with the Gemscream 9 Pcs Crab Cake Topper set! This collection of realistic decorations is perfect for adding a festive touch to cakes, cupcakes, and your entire party spread. It’s ideal for birthdays, festivals, or any potluck where you want to create a memorable, themed experience.
What We Like:
- The set includes a large, eye-catching red crab, a smaller crab, three realistic corns, and three mini potatoes.
- The mini iron bucket adds a charming, authentic touch to your decorations.
- All the pieces are made from safe, reusable materials like plastic, PVC, resin, and tinplate.
- The decorations are incredibly realistic, instantly setting the mood for a crab boil party.
- This complete package makes decorating quick and easy, so you can spend more time with your guests.
- They work wonderfully on cakes and cupcakes, and also serve as great tabletop decorations or game props.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the materials are safe, some younger children might need supervision with the smaller pieces.
- The mini iron bucket is decorative and not intended for holding food items.
This Gemscream set is a fantastic way to elevate your party theme. It provides realistic and fun decorations that guests will love, making your event truly special.
5. (6) 5 oz Lump Crab Cakes (Made in the USA with Blue Crab Meat
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready for a taste of the Chesapeake Bay with these (6) 5 oz Lump Crab Cakes. They are made right here in the USA and packed with real blue crab meat. You can tell they are special because they use jumbo lump and lump crab meat. This means you get big, delicious chunks of crab in every bite.
What We Like:
- Packed with real jumbo lump and lump blue crab meat.
- Follows a classic Maryland signature recipe.
- No filler means you taste pure crab goodness.
- Generous 5 oz size per crab cake.
- Made in the USA for quality you can trust.
What Could Be Improved:
- Availability might be limited due to high demand.
- Cooking instructions could be more detailed for beginners.
These crab cakes are a fantastic way to enjoy authentic Maryland flavor at home. They are a simple way to make any meal feel like a special occasion.
Your Guide to Delicious Store-Bought Crab Cakes
Want to enjoy a taste of the sea without the fuss? Store-bought crab cakes are a fantastic option! They offer convenience and can be surprisingly tasty. But not all crab cakes are created equal. This guide will help you pick the best ones.
Key Features to Look For
1. Crab Content is King
The most important thing is how much real crab meat is in the cake. Good crab cakes have a high percentage of crab. Look for “crab meat” or “blue crab meat” listed as the first ingredient. If “fillers” like breadcrumbs or mayonnaise are listed first, the crab content is probably low.
2. Minimal Fillers
Crab cakes should highlight crab, not bread. Too many breadcrumbs or excessive mayonnaise can make the cake mushy and hide the crab flavor. A good crab cake has a balance. You want to see chunks of crab, not just a paste.
3. Simple, Quality Ingredients
Look for a short ingredient list. Fresh crab, a binder like egg or mayonnaise, some breadcrumbs, and seasonings like Old Bay are common. Avoid artificial flavors or preservatives if you can. Natural ingredients usually mean better taste.
4. Texture Matters
A great crab cake has a slightly crisp exterior when cooked and a tender, flaky interior. It shouldn’t be dry or crumbly. The crab meat should be visible in distinct pieces.
Important Materials (Ingredients)
- Crab Meat: This is the star! Look for lump crab meat if possible. It means bigger, better pieces of crab.
- Binder: Eggs and mayonnaise help hold the cake together. Too much can make it greasy.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko or fresh breadcrumbs add a little texture. They shouldn’t be the main component.
- Seasonings: Old Bay is a classic for a reason. Salt, pepper, and a touch of mustard can also enhance flavor.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes Crab Cakes Better:
- Fresh Crab: The fresher the crab meat, the better the taste.
- High Crab-to-Filler Ratio: More crab means more delicious crab flavor.
- Simple Seasoning: Letting the crab flavor shine through is key.
- Good Binding: The cake holds together well without being dense.
What Makes Crab Cakes Worse:
- Lots of Fillers: Too many breadcrumbs or mayonnaise dilute the crab flavor.
- Artificial Ingredients: These can create an unnatural taste.
- Old or Processed Crab: This affects the flavor and texture negatively.
- Too Much Moisture: Can lead to a soggy cake that falls apart.
User Experience and Use Cases
Store-bought crab cakes are perfect for busy weeknights. They cook quickly, usually in a pan or oven. They are great for a quick lunch or a simple dinner. You can serve them on a bun as a sandwich, over a salad, or with your favorite sides like fries or coleslaw. They are also a hit at parties or gatherings when you need an easy appetizer.
Frequently Asked Questions about Store-Bought Crab Cakes
Q: What is the main ingredient in good crab cakes?
A: The main ingredient should be real crab meat. Look for it listed first on the package.
Q: Should I worry about how much filler is in a crab cake?
A: Yes, too much filler like breadcrumbs or mayonnaise can make the crab flavor less noticeable.
Q: What kind of crab meat is usually used?
A: Blue crab meat is common and often preferred for its sweet flavor. Lump crab meat is a sign of quality.
Q: How can I tell if a crab cake has good quality crab?
A: You should be able to see distinct pieces of crab meat inside the cake, not just a mushy paste.
Q: Are store-bought crab cakes healthy?
A: They can be part of a balanced meal. Check the nutrition label for sodium and fat content. Opt for cakes with fewer processed ingredients.
Q: What is the best way to cook store-bought crab cakes?
A: Pan-frying often gives them a nice crispy crust. Baking is another good option. Follow the package instructions.
Q: Can I freeze store-bought crab cakes?
A: Many store-bought crab cakes can be frozen. Check the packaging for specific freezing and reheating instructions.
Q: How long do store-bought crab cakes last in the refrigerator?
A: Unopened, they usually last until the “sell-by” date. Once opened, use them within 1-2 days.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with crab cakes?
A: Classic choices include French fries, coleslaw, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.
Q: What makes a crab cake taste “fishy”?
A: A strong “fishy” taste often means the crab meat isn’t very fresh or has been processed too much. Good crab cakes have a sweet, delicate crab flavor.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
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