Air Fryer Crab Cakes with Chipotle Sauce

These crab cakes are golden, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside, with sweet, delicate crab meat enhanced by herbs and a touch of spice. Paired with a smoky chipotle sauce, this dish makes a perfect appetizer, lunch, or dinner. This recipe yields 6 crab cakes.

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Ingredients:

For the Crab Cakes:

• 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, plus extra for coating
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1–2 teaspoons olive oil for brushing

For the Chipotle Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1–2 teaspoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chipotle Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced chipotle, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust spiciness or sweetness as desired.
3. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

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2. Prepare the Crab Cake Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the crab meat, 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, parsley, green onions, salt, and black pepper.
2. Use a gentle folding motion to avoid breaking up the crab too much.

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3. Form the Crab Cakes

1. Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions.
2. Shape each portion into a round patty, about 3 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick.
3. Optional: Lightly dredge each patty in additional panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
4. Brush each crab cake lightly with olive oil to promote browning in the air fryer.

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4. Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.

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5. Air Fry the Crab Cakes

1. Place the crab cakes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if needed.
2. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
3. The crab cakes are done when golden brown on both sides and heated through.

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6. Serve

1. Carefully transfer crab cakes to a serving plate.
2. Serve with the chipotle sauce on the side or drizzled on top.
3. Optional garnishes: chopped fresh parsley, lime wedges, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

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Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Crab Cakes

• Use lump crab meat for large, tender pieces that shine in each bite.
• Don’t overmix: Gently fold ingredients to preserve the texture of the crab.
• Crispiness tip: Lightly brushing with olive oil or using panko coating gives a golden, crunchy exterior without deep frying.
• Check doneness: Crab cakes cook quickly in the air fryer; they are done when firm, golden, and heated through.
• Make ahead: Form crab cakes and refrigerate for 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
• Serve with sides: Air-fried vegetables, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes complement the dish beautifully.