Go Back

Crab Legs

Tender crab legs steamed and served with garlic butter and lemon for a quick and flavorful seafood feast.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Seafood
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 pounds king or snow crab legs
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Large pot or stockpot
  • Steamer insert or colander
  • Tongs
  • Butter warmer or small saucepan
  • Crab crackers or forks

Method
 

  1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and season with a pinch of salt.
  2. Place a steamer insert or colander into the pot, ensuring it does not touch the water.
  3. Arrange the crab legs in the steamer basket.
  4. Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil over high heat.
  5. Steam the crab legs for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and shells turn bright orange.
  6. While the crab steams, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
  7. Add minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  8. Stir in lemon juice and Old Bay seasoning to the garlic butter.
  9. Remove the crab legs using tongs and serve with garlic butter and parsley garnish.

Notes

Always serve crab legs with plenty of napkins to keep your hands clean and add to the fun.