Cooking Crab Cakes: How Long to Cook in the Oven at 375

Ever wondered how to get those delicious crab cakes perfectly cooked, golden brown, and delightfully crispy, all without a lot of fuss? Baking them in the oven is a fantastic way to achieve this, offering a healthier alternative to frying and less mess in the kitchen. But the big question often is: how long to cook crab cakes in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit?

The Sweet Spot: How Long to Cook Crab Cakes in the Oven at 375°F

For most standard-sized, unfrozen crab cakes (about 2-3 ounces each), you’re looking at a cooking time of roughly 15 to 20 minutes when your oven is preheated to 375°F. This can vary slightly based on their size and thickness. If your crab cakes are larger or thicker, they might need a few extra minutes.

For crab cakes that are frozen, the baking time will naturally be longer. Expect them to take around 25 to 30 minutes at the same 375°F temperature. It’s often best to cook them directly from frozen, rather than attempting to thaw them first, as it helps maintain their shape and texture.

How to Tell When Your Crab Cakes Are Done

The best way to ensure your crab cakes are cooked through and safe to eat is by checking their internal temperature. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is your reliable tool here!

Visually, look for these signs:

• They should be beautifully golden brown and crispy on the outside.
• They will feel firm to the touch when gently pressed.
• If you cut one open, the inside should be flaky and hot, not cold or gummy.

Easy Steps to Perfectly Baked Crab Cakes

Here’s how to bake your crab cakes to perfection, step by step.

1. Preheat Your Oven: Get your oven nice and hot by setting it to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking from the moment your crab cakes go in.
2. Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. If using foil, a light spray of cooking oil or a brush of melted butter can add extra non-stick insurance and help with browning.
3. Arrange Your Crab Cakes: Place the crab cakes on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave a little space between each one. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness.
4. Brush for Golden Goodness (Optional): For an extra golden crust and richer flavor, lightly brush the tops of your crab cakes with melted butter or olive oil.
5. Bake ‘Em Up:
   • For unfrozen crab cakes, bake for 15 to 20 minutes.
   • For frozen crab cakes, bake for 25 to 30 minutes.

   You might gently flip them halfway through the cooking time for even browning, but it’s not always necessary.

6. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm they’ve reached 165°F (74°C) internally, or look for the visual cues mentioned earlier.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once perfectly cooked, remove your crab cakes from the oven. Let them rest for a minute or two before serving with your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh lemon wedge.

Top Tips for the Best Baked Crab Cakes

• Don’t Overmix: If you’re making your own, mix the crab cake ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough crab cakes.
• Chill Them Out: Chilling homemade crab cakes for at least 30 minutes before baking helps them hold their shape better during cooking.
• Quality Crab Matters: Start with good quality crab meat – lump or jumbo lump are excellent choices for texture and flavor.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Give your crab cakes space on the baking sheet to ensure they bake evenly and get crispy.
• Flip If Desired: For an all-around crispy exterior, consider flipping your crab cakes halfway through the baking time.
• Know Your Oven: Ovens can vary. If yours tends to run hot or cold, adjust the cooking time slightly.

Baking vs. Pan-Frying: Which is Best?

Both methods yield delicious crab cakes, but offer different benefits:

• Baking:
  • Healthier: Uses less oil.
  • Less Mess: No splattering oil, easier cleanup.
  • Even Cooking: The dry heat cooks them through evenly.
  • Hands-Off: You can largely set them and forget them.
• Pan-Frying:
  • Crispier Crust: Direct contact with hot oil often creates a crunchier crust.
  • Faster: Generally quicker for a single batch.
  • Flavor Boost: Frying can add a depth of flavor some prefer.

For convenience, health, and a perfectly cooked interior with a pleasant golden exterior, baking at 375°F is a fantastic choice!

Can You Reheat Crab Cakes in the Oven?

Absolutely! The oven is one of the best ways to reheat crab cakes, as it helps them retain their crispiness without drying out. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the crab cakes on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also lightly brush them with oil or butter before reheating.

Freezing Crab Cakes for Later

Whether homemade or store-bought, crab cakes freeze wonderfully!

1. Flash Freeze: Place crab cakes on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid.
2. Store: Transfer the frozen crab cakes to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. Shelf Life: They’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply bake them from frozen as described earlier, adding about 10-15 minutes to the typical cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baking Crab Cakes

Do I need to flip crab cakes when baking?

While not strictly necessary, flipping them halfway through baking can help achieve a more even golden-brown crust on both sides. If you prefer a very crispy bottom, you might skip flipping.

What temperature should crab cakes be cooked to?

Crab cakes should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be considered safely cooked.

Can I bake crab cakes without egg?

Yes, you can! You might need to use other binders like mayonnaise, mustard, or a bit of mashed potato to help them hold together. Just be aware that the texture might be slightly different.

How do I make crab cakes crispy in the oven?

To get crispy crab cakes in the oven, make sure your oven is fully preheated, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, and consider brushing them with a little oil or melted butter before baking. A light coating of panko breadcrumbs can also boost crispiness.

What goes well with baked crab cakes?

Baked crab cakes are incredibly versatile! They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, coleslaw, roasted asparagus, lemon-garlic pasta, or a simple rice pilaf. A zesty tartar sauce, remoulade, or a squeeze of fresh lemon are classic accompaniments.

Ready to Bake Your Perfect Crab Cakes?

Now you know exactly how long to cook crab cakes in the oven at 375°F and all the tips and tricks to make them absolutely perfect. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a special meal, these guidelines will help you achieve deliciously golden, perfectly cooked crab cakes every time. Happy cooking!