Phillips Crab Cakes: Irresistibly Delicious Seafood Delight

Why Phillips Crab Cakes Are a Must-Try

Picture this: it’s a warm summer evening, and you’re craving something that feels fancy but doesn’t take hours to make. Enter Phillips crab cakes, the golden-brown gems that have saved many of my dinner parties. I first tried these at a friend’s house, and let me tell you, they were unforgettable. The crispy exterior gave way to tender, flavorful crab meat inside. I knew I had to recreate them. After testing countless recipes and store-bought options like those from Costco and Publix, I found the perfect balance of flavors. Now, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about Phillips crab cakes with you!

The Story Behind Phillips Crab Cakes

Crab cakes have been a staple in coastal regions for generations, especially in Maryland, where blue crabs are king. Phillips Seafood, a family-owned business, has been serving up seafood since 1956. Their Phillips crab cakes became famous for their high-quality ingredients and simple preparation. While traditional recipes call for lots of filler, Phillips keeps it real—literally. People often ask, “Is Phillips crab meat real crab?” Yes, it is! They use premium crab meat, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

I remember visiting a Shoprite once and spotting a bag of frozen Phillips mini crab cakes. Curiosity got the better of me, so I bought them, cooked them up, and served them at a family gathering. Everyone raved about how fresh they tasted, even though they came from the freezer aisle. That’s when I realized how versatile and reliable Phillips products can be.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes Phillips crab cakes stand out? For starters, they’re incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you buy them pre-made from Costco or whip up your own version using their recipe, you won’t need fancy skills. Plus, they’re customizable. Want to add a kick? Throw in some cayenne pepper. Prefer a lighter option? Use less binder. And don’t forget the nutritional benefits! A quick look at Phillips crab cakes nutrition facts shows they’re a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Perfect Occasions to Serve Phillips Crab Cakes

These crab cakes are perfect for almost any occasion. Hosting a holiday party? Impress your guests with elegant appetizers. Need a quick weeknight meal? Pair them with a salad for a satisfying dinner. I’ve even served them as hors d’oeuvres at bridal showers. Mini versions, like the Phillips crab cake minis from Costco, are especially popular because they’re easy to pop into your mouth.

Ingredients for Homemade Phillips-Style Crab Cakes

1. 1 pound lump crab meat (fresh or Phillips brand)
2. 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
3. 1 large egg, beaten
4. 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
5. 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
6. 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
7. 1/4 cup chopped green onions
8. Salt and pepper to taste
9. 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

Substitution Options

• Swap breadcrumbs for crushed crackers if you prefer a crunchier texture.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangier flavor.
• Add Old Bay seasoning for an authentic Maryland twist.

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by draining and patting dry your crab meat. If you’re using canned crab, check for tiny shell fragments. Fresh crab meat works best, but Phillips offers excellent alternatives. In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, beaten egg, mayonnaise, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, green onions, salt, and pepper. Gently fold in the crab meat until everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix—it’s okay if the mixture looks loose.

Pro tip: Chill the mixture for 15 minutes before forming patties. This helps them hold together during cooking.

Step 2: Shape the Crab Cakes

Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into patties. Aim for about 1/2-inch thickness for even cooking. Place the patties on a plate lined with parchment paper. If you’re making mini crab cakes, divide the mixture into smaller portions. This step is where the magic begins—you can already smell the promise of deliciousness wafting through the air.

Step 3: Cook Until Golden Brown

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the crab cakes in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid flipping them too soon; patience pays off here. For frozen options like Phillips crab cakes from Costco, follow the package instructions. They usually bake beautifully in the oven.

Chef’s tip: Add a squeeze of lemon juice right after cooking for a bright, zesty finish.

Timing Breakdown

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 8-10 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 25 minutes

Chef’s Secret

To elevate your crab cakes, serve them with a homemade remoulade sauce. Mix mayo, capers, lemon juice, and a dash of hot sauce for a creamy, tangy complement.

Extra Info

Did you know that Phillips was one of the first companies to bring crab cakes to grocery stores nationwide? Their commitment to quality has earned them rave reviews, including glowing Phillips crab cakes Costco reviews.

Necessary Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Skillet or baking sheet
• Spatula
• Parchment paper

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain their crispiness. Never microwave crab cakes, as they’ll turn soggy.

For longer storage, freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to two months. When ready to cook, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.

Frozen crab cakes from places like Walmart or Costco are also great to stockpile. Just check the expiration date and store them in the freezer until needed.

Tips and Advice

Always use fresh ingredients for the best results. Fresh herbs and spices make a noticeable difference. Also, resist the urge to overcrowd the pan while cooking. Give each crab cake space to achieve that perfect golden crust.

Presentation Ideas

• Garnish with fresh parsley and a wedge of lemon.
• Serve on a bed of arugula for a pop of color.
• Arrange mini crab cakes on a tiered platter for parties.

Healthier Alternatives

Here are six ways to lighten up your crab cakes:

1. Zucchini-based: Replace half the breadcrumbs with grated zucchini for added moisture and nutrients.
2. Egg white only: Use just the whites to reduce fat content.
3. Baked version: Skip frying and bake them on a greased sheet at 400°F for 15 minutes.
4. Gluten-free: Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones.
5. Low-sodium: Omit added salt and rely on herbs for flavor.
6. Vegan: Substitute crab meat with chickpeas and seaweed flakes for a seafood-like taste.

Mistake 1: Overfilling the Mixture

One common mistake is adding too much filler, which masks the delicate flavor of the crab. Remember, crab cakes should highlight the crab, not hide it. Stick to minimal binders like eggs and breadcrumbs.

Tip: Taste the mixture before shaping the patties. Adjust seasonings if needed.

Mistake 2: Flipping Too Soon

Another pitfall is flipping the crab cakes too early, causing them to fall apart. Let them develop a solid crust before turning them over. Patience is key here.

Mistake 3: Using Low-Quality Crab Meat

Don’t skimp on crab meat. Lower-quality options often contain fillers or imitation crab. Stick with trusted brands like Phillips for the best results.

FAQs About Phillips Crab Cakes

Is Phillips crab meat real crab?

Yes, Phillips uses real crab meat sourced from sustainable fisheries. Their products undergo rigorous quality checks to ensure authenticity.

Does Costco sell Phillips crab cakes?

Absolutely! Costco carries both full-sized and mini Phillips crab cakes, along with detailed nutrition info.

What makes Phillips crab cakes unique?

Phillips focuses on simplicity and quality, using minimal fillers and premium crab meat.

How to cook Phillips frozen crab cakes?

Follow the package instructions, typically baking them in the oven at 400°F for 12-15 minutes.

Where else can I find Phillips crab cakes?

Look for them at Publix, Shoprite, and other major grocery chains.

Are Phillips crab cakes healthy?

They’re a good source of lean protein but watch portion sizes due to calorie content.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes, baking reduces oil usage and still yields delicious results.

Do Phillips crab cakes contain preservatives?

No, they focus on natural ingredients without artificial additives.

How do I know when they’re done?

They should be golden brown and firm to the touch.

Can I freeze homemade crab cakes?

Yes, freeze uncooked patties on a tray, then transfer to bags for later use.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose store-bought or homemade, Phillips crab cakes are a crowd-pleaser. With their rich history, ease of preparation, and versatility, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So grab some crab meat, fire up the stove, and enjoy the deliciousness!