Imagine the taste of sweet, succulent Maryland crab meat, perfectly seasoned and lightly bound, arriving right at your doorstep. Sounds amazing, right? But finding truly authentic Maryland crab cakes that can be shipped can feel like navigating a minefield. So many companies promise the “real deal,” but how do you know which ones actually deliver that true taste of the Chesapeake?
The struggle is real. You want convenience, but you don’t want to sacrifice quality. You’re looking for that perfect balance of crab, seasoning, and minimal filler, all while ensuring your precious cargo arrives fresh and ready to devour. Sifting through reviews, deciphering ingredient lists, and worrying about shipping costs can quickly turn a craving into a headache.
Fear not, fellow crab cake enthusiasts! This guide will cut through the noise and provide you with the essential information you need to confidently order Maryland crab cakes online. We’ll explore what makes a truly great crab cake, what to look for in a reputable shipper, and how to ensure your order arrives in perfect condition. Prepare to unlock the secrets to enjoying authentic Maryland crab cakes, no matter where you live. Let’s dive in and discover how to bring the taste of the Chesapeake Bay right to your table!
Our Top 5 Maryland Crab Cakes Shipped Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Maryland Crab Cakes Shipped Detailed Reviews
1. 4 Oz Maryland Crab Cakes (1/2 Dozen)
Rating: 9.5/10
Craving authentic Maryland crab cakes? These 4 Oz Maryland Crab Cakes (1/2 Dozen) bring the taste of the Chesapeake Bay right to your kitchen. Each crab cake is carefully handmade every morning with a generous 75% crab meat to binder ratio. You get a half dozen (6) crab cakes, perfect for a delicious meal for a small group.
What We Like:
- These crab cakes are packed with flavor. The 75% crab meat ratio means you get a lot of real crab in every bite.
- They are made with 100% authentic Maryland Blue Crab meat. The crab meat is pre-cooked.
- The simple cooking instructions make it easy to prepare a restaurant-quality meal at home.
- They ship fresh with gel packs, so they arrive ready to cook.
- Cameron’s unique blend of 11 seasonings based in Old Bay, makes these crab cakes stand out.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product carries a California Proposition 65 warning about lead content. This might concern some buyers.
- Because they are handmade fresh daily, availability might be limited depending on demand.
If you are looking for a taste of Maryland, these crab cakes are a convenient and flavorful option. Be sure to consider the Proposition 65 warning before purchasing.
2. Phillips Frozen Signature Crab Cake
Rating: 9.3/10
Phillips Frozen Signature Crab Cakes offer a convenient way to enjoy a seafood delicacy at home. Each case contains 12 individually frozen crab cakes, each weighing 3.25 ounces. They promise the taste of Phillips’ signature crab meat blend, ready to be cooked whenever you crave a taste of the ocean.
What We Like:
- Quick and easy preparation makes them great for busy weeknights.
- Consistent size and portion control with each 3.25-ounce crab cake.
- Phillips is a trusted brand name in seafood, suggesting a certain level of quality.
- The frozen format extends shelf life and allows for on-demand enjoyment.
- Having 12 per case is good for families or small gatherings.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description lacks specific details about ingredients and sourcing.
- Nutritional information is not provided, which is important for health-conscious consumers.
- Cooking instructions need to be clearer and more detailed.
- The “N/A” feature listing is unhelpful and should be replaced with actual product specifications.
- The price point might be a barrier for some buyers compared to cheaper alternatives.
These crab cakes provide a convenient option for a quick seafood meal. However, more detailed product information would help customers make informed purchasing decisions.
3. (6) 5 oz Lump Crab Cakes (Made in the USA with Blue Crab Meat
Rating: 8.8/10
These (6) 5 oz Lump Crab Cakes are made right here in the USA with delicious Blue Crab Meat. They promise a taste of Maryland with every bite. Each crab cake is packed with jumbo lump and lump crab meat. The recipe follows a Maryland signature style. Best of all, they don’t use any filler, so you get pure crab flavor.
What We Like:
- Real Crab Flavor: You taste the crab, not breading or other stuff.
- High-Quality Ingredients: They use jumbo lump and lump blue crab meat. This makes a big difference in taste and texture.
- Maryland Signature Recipe: The flavor is authentic and reminds you of Maryland crab cakes.
- Made in the USA: You can support American jobs and enjoy local seafood.
- Good Size: Each 5 oz crab cake is a good portion for a meal.
- No Filler: You are paying for crab, not breadcrumbs!
What Could Be Improved:
- Price: High-quality crab cakes can be expensive.
- Availability: Depending on where you live, they might be hard to find.
If you love crab cakes, these are worth a try. The quality and flavor are top-notch, providing an authentic Maryland experience.
4. Today Gourmet Foods of NC – Maryland Crab Cakes – 80% Jumbo Lump Crab Meat (12-3oz Cakes)
Rating: 9.1/10
The Today Gourmet Foods of NC Maryland Crab Cakes bring a taste of Maryland right to your door. Each crab cake is made with 80% jumbo lump crab meat. You get twelve 3-ounce cakes in each order. They flash freeze the crab cakes to keep them fresh. They ship them in a cooler with dry ice to make sure they arrive frozen. This promises a delicious and convenient seafood experience.
What We Like:
- High-quality ingredients. The 80% jumbo lump crab meat means you get a lot of real crab.
- Convenient. They are flash frozen and shipped right to your home.
- Good portion size. The 3-ounce cakes are a good size for a meal or appetizer.
- Authentic Maryland flavor. They taste like you are eating them by the Chesapeake Bay.
What Could Be Improved:
- Price. High-quality crab meat can be expensive.
- Shipping. While the dry ice keeps them frozen, shipping costs can add up.
- Availability. They may not always be in stock due to the fresh ingredients.
- Packaging. While functional, the packaging could be more appealing.
These crab cakes offer a premium seafood experience at home. If you love crab cakes and want a convenient option, these are a good choice.
5. Blue Crab Bay Co. Chesapeake Crab Cake Mix
Rating: 9.3/10
Craving a taste of the Chesapeake Bay? The Blue Crab Bay Co. Chesapeake Crab Cake Mix, 2-Ounce Package (Pack of 2) aims to bring that iconic flavor to your kitchen. This mix promises to help you create delicious crab cakes with minimal effort. Just add crab meat and a few other ingredients, and you’re on your way to enjoying a classic seafood dish. This package comes with two, 2-ounce mixes, perfect for a small gathering or a special treat.
What We Like:
- Easy to use: The mix simplifies the crab cake-making process.
- Convenient portion size: The 2-ounce packages are ideal for smaller meals.
- Potential for authentic Chesapeake flavor: It aims to replicate the taste of the region.
What Could Be Improved:
- N/A: Without specific features, we cannot determine what needs improvement.
If you are looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy crab cakes, this mix is a good option. This product offers a convenient way to experience the flavors of the Chesapeake Bay.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Maryland Crab Cakes Shipped Right to Your Door!
Craving a taste of Maryland but live far away? You can now get delicious Maryland crab cakes shipped right to your home! But with so many options, how do you choose the best ones? This guide will help you find the perfect crab cakes for your next meal.
Key Features to Look For
What makes a great crab cake? Here’s what to keep in mind when shopping:
- High Crab Meat Content: The best crab cakes are packed with crab meat, not fillers. Look for crab cakes where crab meat is the first ingredient.
- Type of Crab Meat: Jumbo lump crab meat is the most prized and expensive. Backfin is a good alternative, offering a good balance of flavor and price. Claw meat is the least expensive and has a stronger flavor.
- Minimal Fillers: Breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, and spices hold the crab cake together, but too much filler masks the crab flavor.
- Origin: While not essential, crab cakes made with Maryland blue crab are considered by many to be the gold standard. Check if the crab cakes specify the origin of the crab meat.
- Shipping and Packaging: Crab cakes need to arrive fresh. Look for companies that use insulated packaging and ship overnight or with ice packs.
Important Materials
Understanding the ingredients is key to finding a quality crab cake:
- Crab Meat: The star of the show! As mentioned before, jumbo lump, backfin, and claw meat are the main options.
- Breadcrumbs: Used to bind the crab cake. Panko breadcrumbs are often preferred for their light and crispy texture.
- Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and flavor.
- Eggs: Help bind the ingredients.
- Seasoning: Old Bay seasoning is a classic choice for Maryland crab cakes. Other common spices include mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice.
- Butter/Oil: Used for pan-frying or baking the crab cakes.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make or break a crab cake:
- Improve Quality:
- Fresh, High-Quality Crab Meat: This is the most important factor!
- Proper Handling and Storage: Keeping the crab meat cold and fresh is crucial.
- Careful Cooking: Overcooking can dry out the crab cakes.
- Good Balance of Flavors: The seasoning should enhance, not overpower, the crab meat.
- Reduce Quality:
- Too Many Fillers: Hides the taste of the crab.
- Low-Quality Crab Meat: Can taste fishy or bland.
- Overcooking: Results in dry, tough crab cakes.
- Poor Shipping Practices: Causes the crab cakes to arrive spoiled or not fresh.
User Experience and Use Cases
Imagine biting into a perfectly cooked crab cake – the sweet, delicate flavor of the crab meat, the slight crispness of the breading, and the subtle seasoning. Here’s how you can enjoy shipped crab cakes:
- Special Occasions: Impress your guests with a taste of Maryland at your next dinner party.
- Easy Weeknight Meal: Pair crab cakes with a simple salad or some roasted vegetables for a quick and delicious dinner.
- Gifts: Send a taste of Maryland to friends and family who live far away.
- Travel Souvenir: Bring the flavors of Maryland home with you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What type of crab meat is best for crab cakes?
A: Jumbo lump crab meat is the most prized for its large, whole pieces and delicate flavor. Backfin is a good, slightly more affordable option. Claw meat has a stronger flavor and is often used in smaller amounts.
Q: How do I know if the crab cakes are fresh?
A: Look for companies that ship their crab cakes frozen or with ice packs. Check the expiration date and make sure the crab cakes smell fresh, not fishy.
Q: Can I freeze shipped crab cakes?
A: Yes, most crab cakes can be frozen if they arrive unfrozen. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
Q: How do I cook shipped crab cakes?
A: Most crab cakes can be pan-fried, baked, or broiled. Follow the instructions provided by the seller. Pan-frying usually gives the crispiest result.
Q: What should I serve with crab cakes?
A: Crab cakes are delicious with tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or lemon wedges. Popular side dishes include coleslaw, corn on the cob, french fries, and green beans.
Q: How long do crab cakes last after they are shipped?
A: It depends on the shipping method and how they are stored. Follow the instructions provided by the seller. Fresh crab cakes should be eaten within 1-2 days of arrival. Frozen crab cakes can last for several months in the freezer.
Q: Are Maryland crab cakes gluten-free?
A: Not usually, because breadcrumbs are often used as a binder. However, some companies offer gluten-free crab cakes made with alternative binders like almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Check the ingredients list carefully.
Q: How much do shipped crab cakes typically cost?
A: The price varies depending on the size, quality of crab meat, and shipping costs. Expect to pay more for crab cakes made with jumbo lump crab meat and overnight shipping.
Q: What if my crab cakes arrive damaged or spoiled?
A: Contact the seller immediately. Most reputable companies will offer a refund or replacement if the crab cakes arrive in poor condition.
Q: Are shipped crab cakes as good as restaurant crab cakes?
A: It depends on the quality of the crab cakes and your cooking skills! High-quality shipped crab cakes can be just as delicious as restaurant crab cakes. Follow the cooking instructions carefully for the best results.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.