Air Fryer Lemon Crab Cakes

These Air Fryer Lemon Crab Cakes are light, crispy, and bursting with fresh flavor! Made with lump crab meat, zesty lemon, herbs, and a hint of seasoning, they cook up golden on the outside and tender inside — all without deep frying. Perfect as an appetizer or light main dish, these crab cakes are a delicious way to enjoy seafood in a healthier, air-fried form.

These Air Fryer Lemon Crab Cakes are a light, flavorful twist on a classic seafood favorite! Made with sweet lump crab meat, zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and simple seasonings, they cook up perfectly golden and crisp in the air fryer without the need for pulling out the deep fryer.

Whether served as an appetizer, a light lunch, or part of a seafood dinner, these crab cakes deliver big flavor with a fresh, vibrant touch — and they come together quickly and easily!

If you are looking for even more Air Fryer Seafood Recipes, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER SALMON WITH WHOLE-GRAIN MUSTARD, AIR FRYER MAPLE GLAZED SALMON, AIR FRYER BAKED SHRIMP SCAMPI, and AIR FRYER BACON WRAPPED SCALLOPS.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Fresh and Flavorful – Zesty lemon and fresh herbs brighten every bite of tender crab meat.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes with simple, straightforward ingredients.
• Perfect for Any Meal – Serve as a light appetizer, elegant lunch, or seafood dinner centerpiece.
• Air Fryer Convenience – Minimal cleanup, less mess, and perfectly cooked crab cakes every time!

Ingredients Needed

• Lump Crab Meat – Sweet, tender crab perfect for rich, flavorful cakes.
• Green Onion – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor to the mix.
• Mayonnaise – Binds the crab cakes and keeps them moist.
• Bread Crumbs – Provides structure and a light, crispy texture.
• Lemon Juice – Adds bright, tangy flavor to balance the richness.
• Lemon Zest – Intensifies the fresh lemon flavor throughout the crab cakes.

How To Make Air Fryer Lemon Crab Cakes

Step One: Mix the crab, green onion, mayonnaise, bread crumbs, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a small mixing bowl. Combine well.

Step Two: Shape into 4 patties, then place in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.

 

 

 

Step Three: Spray your air fryer basket or tray with cooking spray. Then, place your lemon crab cake patties on top, and set the air fryer temperature to 370 degrees F and set cook time for 8-10 minutes using air fryer setting. 

Air Fryer Lemon Crab Cake Recipe Tips

• Do not Over Mix: Use your hands and mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.  Do not over-mix; otherwise, you end up with dense crab cakes.
• More Lemon Flavor? Adjust the lemon zest according to your taste buds. If you want more lemon add more zest. 
• What To Serve With? Serve with a great dipping sauce!
• Flipping Halfway: Depending on your air fryer, you may have to flip them halfway during cooking.
• Spray Your Cooking Basket? Spray your basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper so the crab cakes do not stick.

Storing, Freezing and Reheating

• Storing: Store leftover crab cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them cool completely before sealing to maintain their crispy texture. 
• Freezing: Freeze cooked crab cakes by placing them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat crab cakes in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4–6 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make them soggy.

Air Fryer Lemon Crab Cakes Recipe Faqs

Can I use canned crab instead of fresh lump crab meat? Yes, canned crab can be used as a budget-friendly alternative, but be sure to drain it well and check for shells.

How do I keep the crab cakes from falling apart? Be sure to chill the formed crab cakes for 10–15 minutes before air frying and don’t skip the mayo and breadcrumbs they help bind everything together.

Can I make these crab cakes ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prep and shape them ahead, then refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.

What dipping sauce goes well with these? Tartar sauce, lemon aioli, or a spicy remoulade all pair beautifully with these crab cakes.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• EASY AIR FRYER CRAB CAKES
• AIR FRYER BACON WRAPPED SCALLOPS
• EASY AIR FRYER SALMON WITH MUSHROOM SAUCE
• AIR FRYER SALMON PATTIES
• EASY AIR FRYER CLASSIC FRENCH MUSSELS
• AIR FRYER, BASIL PESTO SHRIMP KEBOBS

Don’t Forget To Pin!

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