Virginia Tidewater Crab Cake Sliders

Introduction

Tidewater Crab Cake Sliders are a coastal Virginia classic—miniature crab cakes grilled to golden perfection on the Arteflame grill and served on soft slider buns with a zesty homemade remoulade. Using sweet blue crab meat and the even searing power of the Arteflame grill, these sliders come out tender on the inside, crisp on the outside, and bursting with flavor. Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or party food, these bite-sized beauties are a true crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh blue crab meat (jumbo lump preferred)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for griddle)
• 12 mini slider buns
• Butter lettuce leaves (optional)
• Sliced tomato (optional)

For the Spicy Remoulade

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp whole grain mustard
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp hot sauce
• 1 clove garlic, finely grated
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood on top of the soaked napkins and light the paper.
4. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches 1,000°F and the flat cooktop is evenly hot.

Step 2: Make the Crab Cakes

1. In a large bowl, gently mix together the crab meat, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Form the mixture into 12 small patties for sliders.
3. Place the sliders on a plate and refrigerate for 10 minutes to help them firm up.

Step 3: Make the Remoulade

1. In a small bowl, whisk together all remoulade ingredients until smooth and well combined.
2. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 4: Grill the Crab Cakes

1. Add butter to the Arteflame flat griddle cooktop near the hot center area.
2. Carefully place the crab cakes on the buttered flat top and grill for about 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Use the area closer to the center of the grill for a good sear, then move them outward to prevent overcooking.

Step 5: Toast the Slider Buns

1. Split the slider buns and place them face down on the cooler outer edge of the flat cooktop.
2. Toast until golden brown and slightly crispy, about 1–2 minutes.

Step 6: Assemble the Sliders

1. Spread spicy remoulade on both sides of each bun.
2. Add a butter lettuce leaf and tomato slice (if desired).
3. Place the grilled crab cake on the bun and top with the other half.

Tips

• Use jumbo lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor.
• Be gentle when mixing crab cakes to avoid breaking up the lumps.
• Grill directly on buttered areas of the griddle for flavor and perfect sear.
• Pull crab cakes off the grill when their internal temp is around 135°F (target is 150°F) to avoid overcooking.
• Keep buns near the cooler edge to avoid burning.

Variations

1. Bay Scallop Sliders: Swap the crab meat for chopped bay scallops to add a subtly sweet seafood twist.
2. Spicy Jalapeño Crab Sliders: Fold in minced jalapeños into the crab cakes and extra hot sauce into the remoulade for heat lovers.
3. Creole Cajun Crab Sliders: Use Cajun seasoning in place of Old Bay and add diced celery and green peppers for Louisiana flavor.
4. Herb & Lemon Crab Sliders: Add fresh dill and lemon zest for a bright and refreshing flavor profile.
5. Avocado & Mango Crab Sliders: Top each crab cake with a slice of avocado and fresh mango salsa for a tropical flair.

Best pairings

• Serve with a side of sweet potato fries grilled on the Arteflame flat top.
• A Virginia-style slaw with apple cider vinegar makes a crisp and tangy contrast.
• Pair with a chilled glass of Virginia Chardonnay or a local craft pale ale for refreshing contrast.

Conclusion

These Virginia Tidewater Crab Cake Sliders are a true testament to the flavors of the coast—fresh, flavorful, and fun to make. With the even heat distribution and searing capabilities of the Arteflame grill, you can ensure every crab cake slider is cooked to seafood perfection. Serve them up for a cookout, a weeknight treat, or a mouthwatering appetizer—they’re guaranteed to impress.