How to Broil a Crab Cake for Perfectly Cooked Results

Crab cakes are a delicious appetizer or entree that can be made at home. When making crab cakes, one of the most important steps is knowing how to properly broil them so they turn out with a beautifully browned exterior while remaining moist and flaky on the inside. Follow this simple guide to learn everything you need to know about broiling crab cakes to perfection.

Why Broiling is Best for Crab Cakes

There are a few different ways you can cook crab cakes including baking, pan frying or air frying However, broiling consistently produces the best textural contrast – a crispy surface with a tender interior

Broiling utilizes high heat from above to quickly sear and caramelize the outside of the cakes before gently cooking the interior. Baking heats the crab cake from all sides which can lead to overcooking. Pan frying provides browning but the inside often remains underdone.

So for crab cakes with the ideal balance of flavors and textures broiling is hands down the best cooking method. The high heat locks in moisture while creating that crave-worthy crunch.

How to Broil Crab Cakes Step-By-Step

Follow these simple steps for perfect broiled crab cakes every time:

1. Prepare the Crab Cake Mixture

• Use fresh jumbo lump crab meat for the best texture. Avoid using canned.
• Gently fold the crab meat together with your binder ingredients like eggs, mayo, breadcrumbs etc. Be careful not to overmix.
• Form into patties about 1 inch thick and 2-3 inches wide. Uniform thickness allows even cooking.
• Chill the formed cakes for at least 30 minutes before broiling. This helps them hold their shape better.

2. Preheat and Prepare the Broiler

• Position an oven rack about 6 inches from heat source.
• Preheat broiler on high for at least 5 minutes before broiling.
• Lightly grease a broiler pan or rimmed baking sheet. This prevents sticking.

3. Broil the Crab Cakes

• Place chilled crab cakes on the prepared pan. Do not overcrowd.
• Broil for 8-12 minutes until deep golden brown. Thinner cakes cook faster.
• Resist the urge to flip them during broiling. Crab cakes are too delicate.
• For extra browning, switch to high broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

4. Check for Doneness

• Insert a toothpick into the center of a crab cake. It should come out clean when they are fully cooked.
• Use tongs to gently press on a crab cake. It should feel firm and spring back slightly when done.
• Look for an evenly browned exterior with no pale spots.

5. Allow to Rest and Serve

• Let crab cakes rest for 2-3 minutes after removing from the oven. This finishes the cooking process.
• Serve crab cakes warm with desired sauces and sides. Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Broiled Crab Cakes

Follow these helpful tips for broiling success every time:

• Use fresh, high-quality lump crab meat rather than canned. This makes a big difference.

• Form crab cakes to an even 1 inch thickness so they cook evenly.

• Refrigerate formed cakes for at least 30 minutes before broiling so they hold their shape better.

• Place crab cakes on a greased pan and add a pat of butter on top for better browning.

• Broil at least 6 inches from heating element to prevent burning.

• Do not flip during broiling. They are too delicate on the topside.

• Allow to rest for a few minutes after broiling before serving.

How to Tell When Crab Cakes are Done

It can be tricky to tell when crab cakes are fully cooked through. Here are some doneness indicators to look for:

• Toothpick test – A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, with no wet batter clinging to it.

• Firmness – Lightly pressing the top should feel firm yet still springy. Softness means underdone.

• Even browning – Tops should be golden brown with no pale or soft spots. Uneven coloring means they need more time under the broiler.

• Opacity – Fully cooked crab cakes will be opaque all the way through, not translucent. Check the sides and center.

• 165°F internal temperature – This is the safe temperature for crab cakes to reach doneness. Use an instant read thermometer to check.

Always err on the side of slightly overdone when broiling. Slightly dried edges are better than undercooked centers. Now go enjoy those delicious broiled crab cakes!

FAQs About Broiling Crab Cakes

Should crab cakes be flipped during broiling?

It’s best not to flip crab cakes during broiling. The delicate tops will likely fall apart. Simply broil on one side the entire time.

What temperature should you broil crab cakes?

Broil at 500°F on high to get the tops nicely browned. Lower heat to 400°F if they seem to be browning too fast.

How long should you broil crab cakes?

Broil 2-3 inch crab cakes for 12-15 minutes. Larger or thicker cakes may need 15-18 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

What pan is best for broiling crab cakes?

Use a broiler pan or rimmed baking sheet lined with foil or greased for easy cleanup. This allows air flow for even cooking.

Should you put butter on crab cakes before broiling?

Yes, adding a small pat of butter on top of each crab cake helps them brown evenly and adds extra flavor.

What temperature are crab cakes done?

Crab cakes are safely cooked through once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use an instant read thermometer to check.

Can you broil frozen crab cakes?

It’s best not to broil crab cakes directly from frozen. Thaw them first in the refrigerator overnight before broiling.

Delicious Ways to Serve Broiled Crab Cakes

Once you’ve mastered broiling crab cakes to perfection, it’s time to figure out how to serve them. Here are some delicious ideas:

• On brioche rolls with lettuce, tomato and remoulade or tartar sauce for crab cake sandwiches

• On a fresh green salad or slaw with lemon wedges

• Alongside asparagus, green beans or roasted potatoes

• On pasta with an easy lemon garlic butter sauce

• On top of a plate of crispy french fries or sweet potato fries

• With drawn butter and lemon wedges for dipping

• With classic cocktail or tartar sauce for dipping

• On a bed of sauteed kale or spinach

However you choose to serve them, these tender broiled crab cakes are sure to be a hit! The crispy golden exterior pairs perfectly with the sweet, delicate crab meat inside. Enjoy this restaurant-worthy seafood dish right at home.