Can Crab Cakes Go Bad : What You MUST Know

Crab cakes are a beloved seafood dish, known for their deliciously crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior. Whether served as an appetizer, main dish, or part of a sandwich, they have an undeniable charm that makes them a go-to choice for seafood lovers. But what happens when you make a batch of crab cakes or buy some from your local market and you’re not sure if you can finish them all right away? Can they go bad? How long can you store them before they start to spoil?

Understanding how to properly store and recognize when crab cakes have gone bad is essential for ensuring both your safety and your enjoyment of the dish. In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the shelf life of crab cakes, how to store them properly, and the common signs of spoilage you should watch out for.

Can Crab Cakes Go Bad?

Yes, crab cakes can absolutely go bad. Like most prepared foods, they are susceptible to spoilage if not handled, stored, or consumed correctly. The primary culprit behind the degradation of crab cakes is bacteria. If they are exposed to temperatures that promote bacterial growth or if they’re stored too long, they can become a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms that pose health risks.

Since crab cakes typically contain seafood, dairy (like eggs or mayonnaise), and various seasonings, they need to be treated with particular care to prevent spoilage. The seafood can break down over time, losing both its texture and taste. Once crab cakes go bad, they won’t just taste off; they can also become a food safety hazard.

Shelf Life For Crab Cakes

The shelf life of crab cakes varies based on several factors, such as whether they are homemade or store-bought, whether they are cooked or uncooked, and how they are stored. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

• Homemade Crab Cakes (Cooked)

  Typically last 3-4 days in the refrigerator if stored properly. If you want to keep them for a longer period, they can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without sacrificing too much quality.

• Store-bought Crab Cakes (Cooked)

  Usually come with an expiration date on the packaging. If unopened, they can last for about 1-2 weeks beyond the expiration date, but it’s always best to check for any signs of spoilage. Once opened, they should be consumed within 3-4 days.

• Homemade Crab Cakes (Uncooked)

  If you haven’t cooked your crab cakes yet, they should ideally be used within 1-2 days if refrigerated. If frozen, they can last 2-3 months before the quality begins to degrade.

• Store-bought Crab Cakes (Uncooked)

  These are generally safe to keep in the fridge for 2-3 days after purchase, but check the packaging for any specific guidance. If freezing, they can maintain their freshness for about 1-2 months.

Common Signs Of Spoilage

There are several key signs that your crab cakes may have gone bad. If you notice any of the following, it’s best to err on the side of caution and dispose of them.

• Off-putting odor: One of the easiest ways to tell if crab cakes have spoiled is by smelling them. Fresh crab cakes have a light, pleasant seafood aroma. If they start to develop a strong, sour, or ammonia-like odor, it’s a clear sign that bacteria or mold is present, and they should not be eaten.
• Discoloration: If you notice any unusual color changes on the crab cakes-like a dull or slimy coating, or a greenish or grayish hue-this can be an indication of spoilage. Fresh crab meat has a clean, slightly translucent color, but if it becomes opaque or shows off colors, it’s no longer safe to consume.
• Mushy or slimy texture: Good crab cakes should have a firm, slightly crispy exterior with a tender interior. If the crab cakes feel mushy, overly wet, or slimy to the touch, they have likely started to break down and should be discarded.
• Off taste: Even if the crab cakes don’t show visible signs of spoilage, if they taste off, sour, or rancid, it’s a strong indicator that they’ve gone bad.
• Visible mold or crusty spots: While mold isn’t always a common issue with crab cakes, it can occur if they’ve been stored improperly or for too long. Any growths on the surface should be an immediate red flag.

How To Store Crab Cakes?

Proper storage is the key to maintaining the freshness and safety of crab cakes. Here’s what you should know about storing crab cakes correctly:

• Refrigeration (Short-term Storage)

  • Always store crab cakes in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
  • If you’re storing leftover cooked crab cakes, make sure they’ve cooled to room temperature before placing them in the fridge.
  • Store crab cakes on the coldest shelf of your fridge to ensure they stay fresh as long as possible. Ideally, keep them toward the back of the fridge where the temperature remains consistently low.
  • Never store crab cakes in the fridge for more than 4 days after cooking or purchase. After that, it’s best to either eat them or freeze them.

• Freezing (Long-term Storage)

  • Freezing crab cakes can greatly extend their shelf life, but it’s important to wrap them properly to avoid freezer burn.
  • Wrap each crab cake individually in plastic wrap or wax paper, then place them in an airtight freezer bag or container. This protects them from moisture loss and preserves flavor.
  • If you want to maintain the best texture, freeze the crab cakes uncooked. They can be cooked directly from frozen, though they might take a little longer to cook through.
  • Crab cakes can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months, but for the best taste and texture, try to eat them within 1-2 months.

• Thawing

  • To thaw frozen crab cakes, it’s best to place them in the fridge overnight, allowing them to slowly defrost.
  • If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them or cook them straight from the freezer, but keep in mind they may not have the same texture as freshly cooked crab cakes.

Expert Tips

• Use Fresh Crab Meat: The key to making the best crab cakes starts with the freshest crab meat you can find. Fresh crab meat will not only taste better, but it will also last longer when stored properly.
• Don’t Overcrowd When Freezing: If you freeze your crab cakes, avoid stacking them on top of each other without protection. This can lead to them freezing together and becoming a sticky, mushy mess once thawed.
• Don’t Let Crab Cakes Sit at Room Temperature for Too Long: Bacteria can multiply rapidly when seafood is left at room temperature. Try not to leave crab cakes out for more than 2 hours, and always store them in the fridge or freezer when not eating.
• Check Your Freezer Temperature: Your freezer should always be at 0°F (-18°C) to ensure food stays preserved for the long term. Check periodically to make sure it’s working correctly, especially if you plan on freezing a lot of crab cakes.
• Look for Signs of Freezer Burn: Freezer-burned crab cakes can develop a tough, dry exterior. While they’re not harmful to eat, the texture will be off. Make sure to wrap them tightly before freezing to avoid freezer burn.

FAQs

How Long Do Crab Cakes Last In The Fridge?

Crab cakes can typically last 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. After this period, they may start to lose their freshness and flavor.

Can Crab Cakes Go Bad If Left Out Overnight?

Yes, crab cakes can go bad if left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as bacteria can rapidly grow in the temperature danger zone (40°F to 140°F). It is best to discard any crab cakes that have been left out for too long.

How Can I Tell If Crab Cakes Have Gone Bad?

Signs that crab cakes have gone bad include a sour or off smell, a slimy texture, discoloration, or mold growth. If any of these signs are present, it is best to discard the crab cakes.

Can Crab Cakes Be Frozen To Extend Their Shelf Life?

Yes, crab cakes can be frozen to extend their shelf life. When properly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and stored in an airtight container or freezer bag, they can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Do Cooked Crab Cakes Spoil Faster Than Uncooked Ones?

Yes, cooked crab cakes generally spoil faster than uncooked ones. This is because cooking can alter the texture and make them more susceptible to bacterial growth. Uncooked crab cakes, when stored properly, can last a little longer in the refrigerator.

What Is The Best Way To Store Crab Cakes To Prevent Them From Going Bad?

To keep crab cakes fresh, store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate them if you plan to eat them within a few days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I Eat Crab Cakes That Are A Few Days Past Their Expiration Date?

It is not advisable to eat crab cakes that are past their expiration date, especially if they show any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell, discoloration, or slimy texture. Always prioritize food safety.

Can I Reheat Crab Cakes After They’ve Been Frozen?

Yes, you can reheat frozen crab cakes. For the best results, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating them in the oven or on a skillet. This helps retain their texture and flavor.

How Can I Prevent Crab Cakes From Drying Out When Reheating?

To prevent crab cakes from drying out when reheating, cover them with foil or use a microwave-safe cover. You can also add a small amount of butter or broth to maintain moisture.

Is It Safe To Eat Crab Cakes That Smell Slightly Fishy?

A slight fishy smell is common with crab cakes, especially if they are freshly cooked. However, if the smell is overly strong or sour, this is a sign that the crab cakes have gone bad and should be discarded.