Garlic Butter Crab Legs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Butter Crab Legs are the epitome of indulgence—sweet, tender crab meat paired with a luxurious garlic butter sauce that’s packed with flavor. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity: you don’t need a lot of ingredients to make crab legs shine. The garlic and lemon bring out the natural sweetness of the crab, while the buttery sauce adds richness that complements it perfectly. With just a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned cooks.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs crab legs (king or snow crab), thawed if frozen
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 5–6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional, for a classic flavor)
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Salt, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the crab legs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. If using frozen crab legs, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and Old Bay seasoning (if using). Taste and add salt as needed.
5. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the crab legs. Use a brush to ensure the butter gets into all the nooks and crannies of the crab legs.
6. Cover the crab legs with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crab is heated through and fragrant.
7. Remove from the oven and transfer the crab legs to a serving platter. Drizzle with the remaining garlic butter sauce and garnish with chopped parsley.
8. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for extra brightness.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 2-3 people.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Garlic Butter: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce.
• Cajun Style: Use a Cajun seasoning blend instead of Old Bay to give the dish a spicier, bolder flavor.
• Grilled Crab Legs: For a smoky flavor, try grilling the crab legs instead of baking them. Brush with garlic butter and grill for 5-7 minutes on each side.
• Herb Variations: Try using fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil in place of parsley for a fresh twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover crab legs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, wrap the crab legs in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen crab legs?

Yes, frozen crab legs work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.

How do I know when crab legs are done?

Crab legs are done when they are heated through and the meat is tender. You can test by pulling the meat out of one of the legs to see if it’s fully cooked and tender.

Can I make this recipe with other types of seafood?

Yes, this garlic butter sauce pairs well with shrimp, lobster tails, or even scallops. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the type of seafood you’re using.

How do I crack open the crab legs?

Use a seafood cracker or a mallet to gently crack the crab legs and claws. You can also use kitchen scissors to cut through the shell and expose the meat.

Can I make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it before drizzling over the crab legs.

What kind of crab is best for this recipe?

King crab legs and snow crab legs are both excellent choices. King crab has larger, meatier legs, while snow crab has a sweeter flavor.

How can I make the garlic butter sauce dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.

Can I add wine to the garlic butter sauce?

Yes, a splash of white wine can add a wonderful depth of flavor to the garlic butter sauce. Just add it after the garlic is cooked and let it reduce for a minute before adding the lemon juice.

How should I serve crab legs?

Crab legs are best served with lemon wedges and a side of buttered potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I freeze leftover crab legs?

It’s not recommended to freeze cooked crab legs, as they may lose their texture and flavor. However, if you have raw crab legs, they can be frozen and cooked later.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Crab Legs are a perfect combination of simple ingredients and bold flavors. The garlic butter sauce brings out the sweetness of the crab, while the lemon and optional seasonings add a zesty brightness. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration. With its irresistible flavor, Garlic Butter Crab Legs will quickly become one of your favorite seafood dishes!

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