Best Frozen Crab Cakes: 5 Brands With 100% Real Crab Meat

Finding high-quality frozen crab cakes can be a surprisingly tricky endeavor. Many options rely heavily on fillers, diminishing the delicate flavor of the crab itself. But for those seeking a convenient way to enjoy a truly crab-rich experience, several brands stand out. As of March 18, 2026, a growing number of shoppers are turning to frozen options made with 100% real crab meat, bypassing the inconsistencies of restaurant preparations and the expense of fresh alternatives. Here’s a look at five of the best frozen crab cakes currently available, based on recent reviews and product information.

Phillips Frozen Crab Cakes: A Shopper Favorite

Target shoppers consistently praise Phillips Frozen Crab Cakes as a standout choice. These Maryland-style crab cakes are crafted with premium lump crab meat, subtly seasoned with tangy mustard, zesty lemon, and a touch of butter. The appeal, according to reviewers, lies in their ability to achieve a perfectly crispy exterior and a tender, flaky interior when prepared according to package directions. One Target customer noted they “didn’t think I could crave frozen food, but these crab cakes are out of this world!” This level of enthusiasm suggests Phillips has successfully bridged the gap between convenience and quality in the frozen seafood market.

Sprouts Maryland Style Crab Cakes: Real Crab Takes Center Stage

For those prioritizing a high crab meat content, Sprouts Maryland Style Crab Cakes are garnering attention. These hand-made cakes boast 100% real crab meat, minimizing the use of fillers. Shoppers report that this dedication to quality translates into a superior taste and texture, often surpassing restaurant offerings. “These are better crab cakes than most that I’ve had in a restaurant as they don’t have all filler, it is a perfect amount with just tons of real crab,” one Sprouts shopper shared. The emphasis on minimal processing and a generous crab meat ratio clearly resonates with consumers seeking an authentic crab cake experience.

Open Nature Crab Cakes: A Vons Shopper’s Delight

Available at Vons, Open Nature Crab Cakes offer a Maryland-style option that consistently receives positive feedback. Reviewers describe a pleasing balance of textures – lightly crunchy on the outside and sweet and flaky within. One Vons shopper, a veteran of Maryland crab cakes, commented that these cakes “bring back that great taste.” This suggests Open Nature successfully captures the essence of a classic crab cake, making it a reliable choice for those familiar with the regional specialty.

Member’s Mark Wild Caught Handmade Crab Cakes: Costco’s Premium Pick

Costco’s Member’s Mark Wild Caught Handmade Crab Cakes represent a step up in terms of sourcing and craftsmanship. Made with fresh, wild-caught blue swimming crab meat and handmade in the United States, these cakes appeal to consumers seeking a more premium product. A Costco shopper praised their generous crab meat content and balanced texture, stating, “All the family can say is ‘More Please!’” The positive response highlights the appeal of a high-quality ingredient list and careful preparation.

Rastelli’s Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes: A Feast for the Holidays

Too available through Costco, Rastelli’s Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes are particularly popular for special occasions. Made with premium blue crab meat, these handmade cakes are a staple for some families’ holiday traditions. One shopper specifically mentioned incorporating them into their annual Christmas Eve “7-Fishes Feast,” emphasizing their consistent quality and satisfying crab flavor. This demonstrates the potential for these crab cakes to grow a cherished part of celebratory meals.

The increasing availability of frozen crab cakes made with 100% real crab meat offers a convenient and increasingly palatable alternative to fresh options. Although the taste of a freshly prepared crab cake is hard to replicate, these brands demonstrate that a high-quality, crab-forward experience is achievable in the freezer aisle. The key, according to consumer feedback, lies in prioritizing products that emphasize real crab meat and minimize fillers.

It’s important to remember that even with these high-quality options, the experience will vary based on preparation. Following package instructions carefully is crucial to achieving the desired crispy exterior and tender interior. Consumers should also be aware that, as with any seafood product, sourcing and sustainability practices can vary. Further research into the specific sourcing of the crab meat used by each brand may be of interest to environmentally conscious shoppers.