Cheesy Crab Cakes (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 pound fresh lump crab meat
02 - 1 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
03 - 1 cup golden breadcrumbs
04 - 1/4 cup chopped green onions
05 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
06 - 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
07 - Juice of 1 fresh lemon
08 - 2 eggs
09 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
10 - 1 teaspoon minced garlic
11 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ For the Lemon Butter Sauce

12 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
13 - Juice of 1 fresh lemon
14 - 1 pinch garlic powder
15 - Salt to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Gently combine crab meat, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, green onions, parsley, mayonnaise, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Be careful not to break up the crab pieces too much.
02 - Form the mixture into approximately 1/2-inch-thick patties. Place them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to help them firm up.
03 - For frying: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. For baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
04 - Melt butter over low heat, then whisk in lemon juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt until the sauce becomes smooth and silky.
05 - Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the hot crab cakes. Serve with optional side dishes such as coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a citrus-dressed green salad.

# Notes:

01 - Chilling the patties ensures they hold their shape better during cooking.
02 - Frying provides a crispier exterior, while baking offers a lighter alternative.