Crab cakes are a beloved delicacy, but traditional recipes often rely on high-carb breadcrumbs. With this keto air fryer crab cakes recipe, you can enjoy the crispy, savory goodness you love without sacrificing your low-carb lifestyle. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer, these crab cakes are quick to make, packed with flavor, and satisfyingly healthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Keto-Friendly: Uses low-carb ingredients like almond flour or pork rinds for a guilt-free treat.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep time.
• Perfectly Crispy: The air fryer ensures a golden crust without excess oil.
• Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, main course, or in a lettuce wrap.

Ingredients for Keto Air Fryer Crab Cakes

Crab Cakes

Ingredient	Quantity
Lump crab meat (drained)	8 ounces
Keto cracker crumbs	1/4 cup
Fresh parsley (chopped)	2 tbsp
Green onion (sliced)	1
Old Bay seasoning	1/2 tsp
Salt	1/2 tsp
Black pepper	1/4 tsp
Egg (large)	1
Mayonnaise	1 tbsp
Dijon mustard	2 tsp
Melted butter	2 tbsp

Spicy Mayo

Ingredient	Quantity
Mayonnaise	1/4 cup
Sriracha	1 tsp
Cajun seasoning	1/2 tsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crab Mixture

• In a large bowl, use a fork to break up the crab meat into smaller pieces.
• Add the keto cracker crumbs (or substitute), parsley, green onion, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

2. Add Wet Ingredients

• Stir in the egg, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until the mixture is evenly moistened.
• Using your hands, form the mixture into 4 patties, each about 3/4 to 1 inch thick.
• Place the crab cakes on a waxed paper-lined plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during cooking.

3. Prep the Air Fryer

• Spray or brush the air fryer rack with oil (avocado oil works well).
• Brush melted butter on both sides of each crab cake.

4. Cook the Crab Cakes

• Place the crab cakes on the prepared air fryer rack.
• Air fry at 350°F for 10 minutes, flipping carefully halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

5. Make the Spicy Mayo

• In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, and Cajun seasoning. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Serve and Garnish

• Serve the crab cakes with a dollop of spicy mayo and a wedge of lemon.
• Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for added color.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Crab Cakes

1. Use Fresh Crab Meat: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh lump crab meat if possible.
2. Refrigerate the Patties: Chilling the patties helps them firm up, making them easier to handle and preventing them from falling apart.
3. Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients to avoid breaking up the crab meat too much.
4. Check Air Fryer Capacity: Cook the crab cakes in batches if your air fryer is small, ensuring they have space to cook evenly.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Crab Cake
Calories	160
Protein	12g
Carbohydrates	2g
Fat	12g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	340mg

Delicious Variations

• Cheesy Crab Cakes: Add 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan or cheddar to the mixture for extra richness.
• Spicy Boost: Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes into the crab mixture.
• Herb-Infused: Swap parsley with dill or cilantro for a fresh twist.
• Mini Crab Cakes: Form smaller patties for bite-sized appetizers.

What to Serve with Keto Air Fryer Crab Cakes

• Sides: Pair with a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or cauliflower mash.
• Drinks: A glass of sparkling water with lemon or a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
• Dips: Alongside the spicy mayo, try tartar sauce or garlic aioli.

FAQs About Keto Air Fryer Crab Cakes

1. Can I freeze crab cakes? Yes, you can freeze uncooked crab cakes. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the air fryer time.

2. Can I use canned crab meat? Absolutely! Ensure it is well-drained and free of excess liquid to prevent soggy crab cakes.

3. What can I use instead of keto cracker crumbs? Almond flour or crushed pork rinds are excellent low-carb alternatives.

4. How do I prevent the crab cakes from falling apart? Refrigerating the patties before cooking helps them stay firm. Also, handle them gently when flipping.

5. Can I bake these crab cakes instead? Yes! Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

6. How do I reheat leftover crab cakes? Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

Keto air fryer crab cakes combine indulgence and health in the best way possible. The crispiness from the air fryer, the rich flavors of crab and seasonings, and the kick from the spicy mayo make this dish irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, these crab cakes are sure to impress.

Your Next Move

Ready to elevate your keto meals? Gather your ingredients, fire up the air fryer, and enjoy the magic of these keto air fryer crab cakes. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and for more low-carb inspiration, visit Ruled.me or Wholesome Yum.

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