It’s way easierand more specialthan a roast.

Victor Protasio

Everyholiday spreadneeds a grand centerpiece.

Usually it takes the form of a massive roast or a shinyglazed ham.

Crab cakes on serving plate

Credit:Victor Protasio

At my house, though, its crab cakes that bring everyone to the table.

There are a lot of reasons why I love crab cakes.

They feel just as special as any large cut of meat and require way less angst.

Southern Living Baked Crab Cakes on a plate to serve with mixed greens and a lemon wedge

Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Rebecca Cummins

How To Make The Best Crab Cakes

Ive learned a few things about them over the years.

The best ones are made with a mix of fresh-picked jumbo lump and regularlump crab.

Dont bother with the stuff in cansits Christmas, after all.

Southern Living Baked Crab Cakes adding the crab to the breadcrumb mixture

Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Rebecca Cummins

Keep the flavorings simple.

Youve paid good money for that crab, so let its delicate sweetness shine.

Cook the patties in a mixture of butter and olive oil.

Herbed Crab Cakes with Green Goddess Dressing

Credit: Greg DuPree; Food Styling: Emily Nabors Hall; Prop Styling: Christine Keely

Consider it a Christmas gift to yourself.

Our Best Crab Cake Recipes