7 Best Frozen Crab Cakes of 2024
Crab cakes are a delicious and savory treat that can elevate any meal or event. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner or looking for a quick and delicious dinner option, frozen crab cakes are a convenient choice. To help you choose the best frozen crab cakes, we’ve compiled a list of the top 7 options for 2023.
How to choose the best frozen crab cakes
There are several factors to consider when choosing frozen crab cakes. Here’s a buyer’s guide to help you choose the best option for your needs:
1. Choose your frozen crab cake budget
The price of frozen crab cakes can vary widely. Consider your budget and how many you need. Prices can range from under $10 for a package of two crab cakes to over $100 for a dozen high-quality options. If you’re new to crab cakes, you may want to start with a more affordable package. For special events or when you want the best of the best, opt for the higher-priced options.
2. Look for frozen crab cakes made with at least 70% crab meat.
For premium quality, make sure the crab cakes you choose contain at least 70% crabmeat. Some brands list the percentage of crab meat used. This information can give you an idea of the overall quality and flavor of the crab cakes.
3. Make sure the crab cakes are ready to cook.
Convenience is key when it comes to frozen crab cakes. Look for brands that offer ready-to-cook options to save you time and effort in the kitchen. These crab cakes should not require any additional steps before cooking, whether you choose to fry or bake them.
4. Consider steamed crab meat
While not all products specify the cooking method for their crab meat, steam-cooked crab meat tends to be the most tender and delicate. Steaming preserves the natural flavor of the crab, resulting in a more flavorful final product. Whenever possible, choose crab cakes made with steamed crab meat.
5. Look for black light inspection
To ensure a shell-free eating experience, choose a brand that uses black light inspection to detect shell fragments in its crab cake batter. By inspecting the mix before forming and freezing, the likelihood of biting into crab shell fragments is greatly reduced.
The 7 Best Frozen Crab Cakes of 2023
Now that you know what to look for, let’s explore the top 7 frozen crab cakes of 2023:
1. Handy Seafood Ultimate Crab Cakes
– Key Features: 12 pack, made from steamed crab meat, black light inspected, cryogenically frozen for great texture, ready to cook from frozen.
2. Phillips Frozen Signature Crab Cakes
– Key Features: 12 pack, Maryland style, ready to cook from frozen, 70% crab meat (jumbo and specialty crab).
3. Phillips Frozen Chesapeake Style Crab Cakes
– Key Features: 24-pack, made with claw meat for denser texture, over 70% crab meat, great appetizer size at 2 ounces each, ready to cook.
4. Cameron’s Seafood Store 4 Oz Maryland Crab Cakes
– Key Features: 6-pack, 4 ounces each, made with 75% crab meat, pre-cooked crab meat, ready to cook, shipped fresh to be frozen.
5. AppetizersUSA Premium Lump Crab Cakes
– Key Features: 45 pieces, great appetizer platter, almost 100% crab meat, best when deep fried, ready to cook from frozen.
6. Gorton’s Maryland Style Crab Cakes
– Key features: 2-pack, great value (under $10), ready-to-cook, frozen, wild-caught, sustainably sourced crab.
7. Whole Catch Maryland Style Crab Cakes
– Key features: 2-pack, great value (under $10), ready-to-cook from frozen, wild-caught crab.
Each of these options offers its own unique features and benefits, allowing you to choose based on your dietary needs, taste preferences and budget.
Bottom line
Frozen crab cakes are a convenient and delicious option for seafood lovers. When choosing the best frozen crab cakes, consider your budget, the percentage of crab meat, whether they are ready to cook, the cooking method used, and whether they undergo black light inspection. With our list of the top 7 frozen crab cakes of 2024, you can be sure to find the perfect option for your culinary needs. Enjoy the savory goodness of these frozen crab cakes and elevate your meals with their delicious flavors.
FAQS
Are frozen crab cakes as good as fresh?
While fresh crab cakes have their own unique appeal, frozen crab cakes can be just as delicious. Freezing helps preserve the flavor and texture of the crabmeat, making them a convenient and tasty option.
How do I prepare frozen crab cakes?
Cooking methods may vary by brand, but most frozen crab cakes can be cooked by either frying or baking. Follow the instructions on the package for best results.
Can I thaw frozen Crab Cakes before cooking?
It is generally recommended to cook frozen crab cakes straight from the freezer. Thawing them beforehand can affect the texture and increase the risk of bacterial growth.
Are these crab cakes suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
The suitability of these crab cakes for specific dietary restrictions may vary. Some brands offer gluten-free options or specify if their products contain common allergens. Check product descriptions or contact the manufacturer for more information.
How long will frozen crab cakes last in the freezer?
The shelf life of frozen crab cakes varies depending on the brand and storage conditions. In general, they can be stored in the freezer for several months. Check the package or manufacturer’s instructions for specific storage recommendations.
Can I customize the seasoning or add ingredients to frozen crab cakes?
While frozen crab cakes are typically pre-seasoned, you can certainly add your own seasonings or ingredients to personalize the flavor. Experiment with your favorite spices, herbs, or sauces to enhance the flavor to your liking.