Keto Crab Cakes Recipe
Introduction
Keto Crab Cakes are a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional crab cakes, packed with flavor and easy to prepare. These crispy, golden patties pair perfectly with a creamy keto-friendly tartar sauce for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup almond flour (finely ground, plus more if needed)
- 8 ounces lump crabmeat (drained and picked)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
- Keto-friendly tartar sauce (for serving)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Step 2: Stir in Old Bay seasoning, parsley, salt, black pepper, and almond flour into the wet mixture until well combined. If the mixture is too wet, gradually add a little more almond flour.
- Step 3: Gently fold the lump crabmeat into the mixture carefully to keep the crab chunks intact and evenly coated.
- Step 4: Shape the mixture into six equal-sized patties.
- Step 5: Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry each crab cake for about 5 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy.
- Step 6: Serve warm with keto-friendly tartar sauce on the side.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add finely chopped green onions or a dash of smoked paprika to the mixture.
- If you prefer a more tender texture, substitute half the almond flour with crushed pork rinds.
- Use fresh crabmeat for the best taste, but canned crabmeat can be a convenient substitute.
Storage
Store leftover crab cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep them crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I bake these crab cakes instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the crab cakes at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
Is almond flour necessary for this recipe?
Almond flour works well as a low-carb binder, but you can replace it with crushed pork rinds or coconut flour if you prefer, adjusting the quantity as needed to achieve the right consistency.
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Keto Crab Cakes Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 6 crab cakes 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
These Keto Crab Cakes are a low-carb, flavorful twist on a classic seafood dish. Made with lump crabmeat, almond flour, and a blend of savory seasonings, these cakes are pan-fried to golden perfection and served with a keto-friendly tartar sauce. Perfect for a satisfying and healthy meal that fits into a ketogenic lifestyle.
Ingredients
Crab Cakes
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup almond flour (finely ground, plus more if needed)
- 8 ounces lump crabmeat (drained and picked)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
For Serving
- Keto-friendly tartar sauce
Instructions
- Whisk base: In a medium bowl, combine the beaten egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Whisk these wet ingredients together until smooth and well incorporated.
- Mix ingredients: Add the Old Bay seasoning, finely chopped parsley, kosher salt, black pepper, and almond flour to the wet mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine. If the mixture feels too wet or loose, gradually add a little more almond flour to reach a consistency that will hold shape.
- Fold crab: Gently fold the lump crabmeat into the mixture, taking care not to break up the crab lumps, ensuring the crab is evenly coated without overmixing.
- Fry patties: Shape the mixture into six equal-sized patties. Heat the olive oil in a skillet or pan over medium heat. Fry each crab cake for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Remove from heat and drain on paper towels if needed.
- Serve: Serve the warm crab cakes with keto-friendly tartar sauce alongside for dipping or spreading.
Notes
- If the mixture is too loose, add almond flour gradually to help bind the crab cakes.
- Handle the crabmeat gently to keep the lumps intact for better texture.
- Use a non-stick pan or well-seasoned skillet to prevent sticking when frying.
- These crab cakes can be kept warm in a low oven if preparing in batches.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Keto, Crab Cakes, Low Carb, Seafood, Gluten Free, Paleo-Friendly

