Description
Learn how to cook delicious crab legs three different ways—boiling, steaming, and baking—to enjoy tender, flavorful seafood with minimal effort. This simple yet versatile guide provides you with easy steps, ideal for seafood lovers looking to impress at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 2 clusters Snow Crab legs (about 8 legs) – thawed if frozen
Seasonings and Garnishes
- 1 lemon (halved)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, ¼ stick)
- 1 tablespoon seafood seasoning (such as Old Bay)
- Melted butter (for serving)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Seafood seasoning (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Prepare the crab legs: Rinse the crab legs under cold water to remove any ice glaze or debris. Pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures that your crab legs are clean and ready for cooking.
- Boiling method: Fill a large pot with water and add the seafood seasoning. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Add the crab legs and cook for 4-5 minutes, until heated through. Drain and transfer the legs to a serving platter.
- Steaming method: Fill a large pot with about 1-2 inches of water and add seafood seasoning. Place a steamer basket inside the pot and bring the water to a boil. Add crab legs to the basket, cover, and steam for 5-6 minutes until hot. Remove carefully and place on a serving tray.
- Baking method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the crab legs on a baking sheet. Brush generously with melted butter and sprinkle with seafood seasoning. Bake for 7-8 minutes until warmed through. Remove from oven and transfer to a platter.
- Serve: Serve the crab legs hot with melted butter and lemon wedges on the side for squeezing. Optionally sprinkle extra seafood seasoning for added flavor. Enjoy your perfectly cooked crab legs!
Notes
- Make sure crab legs are fully thawed before cooking if purchased frozen for even heating.
- Cook times may vary slightly depending on size and thickness of crab legs.
- Use fresh lemon juice over the crab for enhanced freshness and bright flavor.
- Butter can be seasoned with garlic or herbs for a flavor twist.
- Leftover crab legs can be stored refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
