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Garlic Butter Crab Legs

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Garlic Butter Crab Legs are a luxurious seafood dish featuring tender, sweet crab meat bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon. Perfect for special occasions or cozy meals, this easy-to-make recipe brings the flavors of the coast to your table. Simple, indulgent, and full of flavor, these crab legs will surely impress any seafood lover!

 

Ingredients

2 lbs crab legs (king or snow crab), thawed if frozen

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

56 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

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  • Prepare the Crab Legs: Place the crab legs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. If using frozen crab legs, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.

  • Prepare the Garlic Butter: 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.

  • Season the Butter: Stir in the lemon juice and Old Bay seasoning (if using). Taste and adjust salt as needed.

  • Coat the Crab Legs: 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.

  • Bake the Crab Legs: Cover the crab legs with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crab is heated through and fragrant.

  • Serve: Remove from the oven and transfer the crab legs to a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining garlic butter sauce and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

Spicy Garlic Butter: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat in the garlic butter.

Cajun Style: Use Cajun seasoning for a bold, spicier flavor profile.

Grilled Option: For a smoky twist, grill the crab legs instead of baking them. Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side.

Herb Variations: Swap parsley for fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil for a unique flavor.