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How To Cook Crab Legs

Cora Garcia
When you’re ready to indulge in the delightful experience of enjoying crab legs, you might want to think about what to serve alongside them. A refreshing lemon aioli can elevate the dish further with its creamy tang, balancing the rich flavors of the crab.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 12 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 291 kcal

Equipment

  •  Large Pot, Baking Dish

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup melted salted butter warm and ready for drizzling
  • 1 teaspoon finely minced garlic optional but adds rich depth
  • 2 clusters of Snow Crab legs approximately 1 pound total
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor boost
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay-style seafood seasoning blend
  • 1 medium lemon sliced into wedges for serving

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

  • Before diving into the cooking process, gather all the ingredients and tools. Melt your butter and have it ready in a small bowl. If you’re using garlic, finely mince it now and mix it with the melted butter. Prep your crab legs by rinsing them under cold water to remove any ice glaze if they are frozen.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

  • You can choose to steam, boil, or bake your crab legs. For steaming, bring a large pot of water to a boil and place a steaming rack inside.
  • If boiling, add crab legs directly into salted bubbling water. For baking, you’ll want to preheat your oven. Each method will yield tasty results.

Step 3: Cook the Crab Legs

  • Steaming: Place the crab legs in the steamer basket, cover, and steam for about 5–7 minutes until heated through.
  • Boiling: Cook them for about 4–5 minutes; ensure the water stays at a rolling boil.
  • Baking: Arrange crab legs on a baking dish, drizzle with butter, sprinkle paprika and seasoning, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F for about 15–20 minutes.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  • Once your crab legs are cooked to perfection, take them out and garnish with the garlic butter. Serve the lemon wedges and enjoy them with your favorite sides. Grab a bib—things might get a bit messy, but that’s just part of the fun!

Notes

  • Choose Thaw Method Wisely: If your crab legs are frozen, the best way to thaw is overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, run them under cold water for about 30 minutes.
  • Don’t Overcook: Whether boiling or steaming, keep an eye on your timing. Overcooked crab can become rubbery. You’re looking for a reheat, not a cook.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Try various spices or herb blends. Garlic herb butter, lemon pepper, or even a zesty chili flake can add fantastic layers.
  • Get Creative with Dipping Sauces: While melted butter is classic, a spicy mayo or a fresh herb sauce brings excitement to your dining experience.
  • Involve Everyone: Make it a communal feast! Lay out the crab legs on a platter, provide tools, and let everyone dig in.

Nutrition

Calories: 291kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 1gFat: 31.9gSaturated Fat: 19.3gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 83mgSodium: 249mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 17mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 3mg
Keyword How To Cook Crab Legs
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