Air Fryer Crab Cakes – Crispy, Flavorful & Perfectly Low-Carb!

Looking for a crunchy, golden-baked seafood dish that brings all the bold flavor of restaurant-style crab cakes—without breadcrumbs or unnecessary carbs? These Air Fryer Crab Cakes are exactly what you need. With their tender interior, crispy exterior, and rich seafood finish, this low-carb version delivers all the richness of coastal cuisine—while keeping it keto-approved and gluten-free.

Perfect for appetizers , lunch , or when you’re craving something savory but staying in ketosis, these easy-to-make crab cakes use simple ingredients like jumbo lump crab meat, almond flour, and fresh herbs to bring bold flavor into your healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re doing strict ketosis , following a low-carb diet , or simply love gourmet seafood dishes with depth and richness, these air fryer crab cakes will quickly become a go-to comfort food in your weekly rotation.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these perfect keto-friendly crab cakes using your air fryer , explore ingredient substitutions, offer serving ideas, and answer your most common questions. Let’s get started!


Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Crab Cakes

These aren’t just any old fish patty—they’re a savory, melt-in-your-mouth delight made with real ingredients that bring bold texture and taste together beautifully—in under 20 minutes!

Here’s why they stand out:

  • 🦀 Premium crab base : Made with real lump crabmeat for natural sweetness and tenderness.
  • 🥣 Easy to make : Just mix, shape, and air fry—no deep frying required!
  • 🧄 Bold seasoning blend : Garlic, lemon zest, mustard, and Old Bay deliver classic Maryland flavor.
  • 🍽️ One-dish wonder : Minimal cleanup, maximum convenience.
  • ⏱️ Ready in under 20 minutes
  • 🧁 Great for batch prep or freezing
  • 🧼 Low-carb and gluten-free : No flour, no breadcrumbs—just keto-approved binding.

Whether you’re making them for yourself after work, your family for dinner, or guests at a weekend brunch, these crab cakes will quickly become a go-to comfort dish.


Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crab Cake Mixture:

  • 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
  • 1/4 cup almond flour or crushed pork rinds (for binding and crispiness)
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (to bind and add moisture)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard or lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning or Cajun spice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 tbsp finely chopped red bell pepper or green onions for crunch

Pro Tip: Avoid imitation crab—it’s high in starch and sugar!


For the Air Fryer Cooking:

  • 1–2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil spray (for light coating)

For Serving (Optional):

  • Keto tartar sauce or remoulade
  • Lemon wedges
  • Arugula or coleslaw
  • Avocado slices or pickled vegetables

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes .

Tip: This helps create an even sear and golden crust.


Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, gently combine:

  • Crab meat (carefully folded to avoid breaking up lumps)
  • Almond flour or crushed pork rinds
  • Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • Mustard or lemon juice
  • Garlic
  • Lemon zest
  • Old Bay seasoning
  • Salt and pepper

Mix until everything is well incorporated and holds its shape.

Note: Use clean hands to press and shape for best texture.


Step 3: Shape the Crab Cakes

Using clean hands, form the mixture into 4–6 small patties , about ½-inch thick .

Place on a tray and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to help them hold shape during cooking.


Step 4: Lightly Oil Before Air Frying

Spray both sides lightly with avocado oil or brush with melted butter.

This helps achieve a golden brown crust without excess fat.


Step 5: Cook in the Air Fryer

Place crab cakes in the air fryer basket in a single layer , not touching.

Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes , then flip and cook for another 6–8 minutes , or until golden brown and firm to the touch.

Let cool slightly before serving to help maintain structure.


Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon juice and a dollop of keto tartar sauce or aioli.

Pair with a side salad, roasted asparagus, or zucchini noodles for a full keto meal.

Enjoy every soft, flaky bite of your Air Fryer Crab Cakes !


Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 4 Servings)

NutrientAmount
Calories~200 kcal
Total Fat~12 g
Saturated Fat~3 g
Cholesterol~70 mg
Sodium~400 mg
Total Carbs~4 g
Dietary Fiber~1 g
Net Carbs~3 g
Protein~20 g

Note: Values may vary based on exact measurements and optional add-ins.


Tips for the Best Air Fryer Crab Cakes

  1. Use high-quality crab meat – Lump or backfin crab gives the best texture and flavor.
  2. Don’t overmix the cake batter – Keep the crab chunks intact for better mouthfeel.
  3. Chill before cooking – Helps maintain shape and prevents crumbling.
  4. Make ahead and store – Keeps best refrigerated in an airtight container.
  5. Double the batch for future meals – Great for reheating in the air fryer later.

Variations & Customizations

Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:

Spicy Crab Cakes

Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture for heat lovers.

Keto Baja Style

Top with chipotle mayo and shredded cabbage for a keto coleslaw twist.

Salmon Patties

Replace crab with canned salmon and add dill for similar texture.

Vegan Option

Use hearts of palm or artichoke hearts with vegan egg and plant-based binder.

Herb-Crusted

Toss fresh parsley, dill, or chives into the mixture for garden-fresh flavor.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are these truly keto-friendly?

Yes! With only ~3g net carbs per cake , it fits perfectly within a ketogenic lifestyle.

Can I use regular flour or breadcrumbs?

Not recommended—standard flour and breadcrumbs are high in carbs. Stick with almond flour or pork rinds.

How do I store leftover crab cakes?

Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days . Reheat in the air fryer or oven for best results.

What kind of crab works best?

Jumbo lump crabmeat gives the richest flavor, but claw or backfin also work great.

Can I freeze uncooked crab cakes?

Yes! Chill first, then wrap and freeze. Cook directly from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes to cooking time.


Why This Recipe Works So Well

These Air Fryer Crab Cakes work because of their perfect balance of textures and bold flavors:

  • The almond flour gives body and crunch , mimicking traditional breading without gluten.
  • The crab stays tender and juicy , soaking up the rich seasoning during baking.
  • And the air fryer creates a golden crust without deep frying or extra oil.

It’s the kind of dish that makes eating clean feel indulgent—because it tastes so good.


Serving Suggestions

Looking for creative ways to serve your keto crab cakes beyond just a plate? Here are some ideas:

In Lettuce Cups

Wrap warm bites in large lettuce leaves for handheld eats.

Over Greens

Top arugula or kale with warm crab cakes and drizzle with balsamic glaze.

With Dipping Sauces

Try chipotle mayo, lemon-garlic aioli, or keto cocktail sauce for extra flair.

At a Dinner Party

Cut into mini bites and arrange on a platter with toothpicks for appetizer-style servings.

As Leftovers

Crumble over mashed cauliflower or mix with eggs for balanced lunches.


Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Let’s take a quick look at the health benefits of what makes this dish special:

Jumbo Lump Crab

High in omega-3s and lean protein—supports heart function and muscle repair.

Almond Flour

Packed with vitamin E and healthy fats—great for brain function and satiety.

Garlic & Herbs

Natural anti-inflammatory compounds—boost immunity and digestion.

Even though these are crab cakes, they’re packed with nutrients that make them more than just a treat—it’s a smart addition to your balanced lifestyle when enjoyed mindfully.


Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Comfort Dish for Seafood Lovers

These Air Fryer Crab Cakes prove that going low-carb doesn’t mean missing out on bold, comforting seafood flavors. With their crispy shell, soft center, and signature oceanic finish, they’re the kind of dish that turns a simple seafood patty into something magical.

Whether you’re new to keto, looking for a fast dinner idea, or want to impress with homemade flair, these crab cakes deserve a spot in your kitchen. They’re easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike.

So go ahead—whip up a batch, share them with friends, or savor them solo. Either way, you’re treating yourself to something worth celebrating.

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Air Fryer Crab Cakes – Crispy, Flavorful & Perfectly Low-Carb!


  • Author: WAFA LI
  • Total Time: 25 mins

Description

Delicious crab meat combined with zesty spices creates pure bliss!


Ingredients

🦀 8 ounces (226.8 g) lump crab meat, 1/4 cup (28 g) keto cracker crumbs, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 1 green onion, sliced, 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper, 1 large egg, 1 tbsp mayonnaise, 2 tsp Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp melted butter, 1/4 cup (56 g) mayonnaise, 1 tsp sriracha, 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning.


Instructions

In a large bowl, break up the crab meat with a fork. Stir in the cracker crumbs, parsley, green onion, Old Bay, salt, and pepper until well combined. Stir in the egg, mayo, and mustard until the mixture is well moistened. Use your hands to form into 4 patties, each about 3/4 inch to 1 inch thick. Place on a waxed paper lined plate and refrigerate at least 30 minutes. Spray or brush the air fryer rack with oil (I used avocado oil spray). Brush melted butter over both sides of the crab cakes and place on the rack. Air fry at 350F for 10 minutes, carefully flipping halfway through cooking. For the mayo, whisk the ingredients together in a small bowl. Serve the crab cakes with lemon and a dollop of spicy mayo.

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 10 mins

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 cakes
  • Calories: 185
  • Fat: 13.2g
  • Carbohydrates: 2.4g
  • Protein: 13.5g

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