Air fryer frozen crab cakes are perfect for those nights when cooking feels like climbing Mount Everest! You only need your air fryer and a box of frozen crab cakes from the store. We all have those days when we want something that feels a bit fancy but takes little effort!
So the next time you don’t feel like cooking, don’t settle for another takeout meal or bowl of cereal! Turn frozen crab cakes into crispy, golden-brown patties that taste like they came from your favorite seafood restaurant.
The air fryer creates the perfect outer crunch while keeping the inside flaky and tender—something that’s tricky to achieve in a regular oven. There’s no flipping, no oil splatters, and practically zero cleanup. You don’t even need to wait for preheating!
Let me walk you through the simplest way to turn your frozen crab cakes into a special meal, even when your cooking motivation is nowhere to be found. So, grab your air fryer and get ready to elevate your seafood game with this quick and easy recipe.
Looking for more air fryer seafood recipes? Try air fryer mahi mahi, air fryer calamari, or air fryer tuna steak.
Ingredient Notes
For exact amounts needed see the recipe card below
There is only one ingredient: frozen crab cakes. You can find a variety of frozen crab cakes at your local grocery store. For the best flavor, I usually opt for those made with real crab meat. Look for options that have minimal fillers and a good balance of seasoning.
How to Make Air Fryer Frozen Crab Cakes
- Take your frozen crab cakes from the packaging and place them in the air fryer basket. Make sure to keep them in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Air fry at 380 degrees F for 8-10 minutes. I recommend starting with 8 minutes and then checking for doneness. Depending on your air fryer model, you might need a minute or two more. You want them to be golden brown and heated through.
- Once they’re done, carefully remove the crab cakes from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute.
Serving Ideas
These Air-Frozen Crab Cakes are not only quick and easy to make but also deliver a satisfying crunch and delicious flavor. They’re perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without the fuss.
Serve your crab cakes with a variety of dipping sauces. A tangy remoulade or a homemade tartar sauce pairs beautifully with the crab’s rich flavors. For a classic touch, mix up a simple cocktail sauce with ketchup, horseradish, and lemon juice.
For a light meal, place the crab cakes on a bed of mixed greens and drizzle with a light vinaigrette or a creamy dressing.
Another fun option is to turn your crab cakes into sandwiches. Place a crab cake on a small bun with a dollop of your favorite sauce and some crunchy coleslaw. This makes for an easy and fun option for a quick seafood dinner.
How to Store
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F and air fry the crab cakes for about 5 minutes.
You can also reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 10 minutes.
Tips
Be sure to check out the step by step instructions
- Don’t overcrowd the crab cakes in the air fryer basket. This allows the hot air to circulate properly, ensuring that each crab cake is crispy and golden. If you have a smaller air fryer, you might need to cook in batches.
- Depending on the size of your crab cakes and the power of your air fryer, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Keep an eye on them during the last couple of minutes to ensure they don’t overcook.
- To be sure the crab cakes are cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165 degrees F to ensure they’re safe to eat.
- You can take the crab cakes straight from the freezer and put them into the air fryer—there is no need to thaw them first, which makes this a great option for last-minute meals.
- You can still use the air fryer method if you have fresh crab cakes. Reduce the cooking time to 6-8 minutes, as they cook faster than frozen ones.
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Air Fryer Frozen Crab Cakes Recipe
Ingredients
- Frozen crab cakes
Instructions
- Put the frozen crab cakes in the air fryer basket, keeping them in a single layer.Frozen crab cakes
- Air fry at 380 degrees F for 8-10 minutes.
- The crab cakes are done when they reach 160 degrees F internal temperature.
Notes
- Don’t overcrowd the crab cakes in the air fryer basket.
- Depending on the size of your crab cakes and the power of your air fryer, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Keep an eye on them during the last couple of minutes to ensure they don’t overcook.
- To be sure the crab cakes are cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165 degrees F to ensure they’re safe to eat.
- You can take the crab cakes straight from the freezer and put them into the air fryer.
- You can still use the air fryer method if you have fresh crab cakes. Reduce the cooking time to 6-8 minutes, as they cook faster than frozen ones.
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Nutrition facts are estimates.
