Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce Recipe: A Deliciously Simple Seafood Feast

If you love seafood, this recipe for Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce is a must-try! Perfectly baked to tender perfection and drizzled with rich, flavorful butter sauce, this dish is a treat for seafood lovers and is incredibly easy to make at home. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce Recipe:

• Delicious & Buttery: The buttery sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the crab meat, making every bite irresistible.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for any special occasion or a simple dinner at home.
• No Steaming or Boiling Needed: Skip the steaming or boiling and bake the crab legs directly in the oven for a juicy, tender texture.
• Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a great option for a quick yet elegant meal.

Ingredients

for Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce:

To make Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce, you’ll need:

• 2 lbs crab legs (king crab or snow crab legs work best)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 tablespoons garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for a mild smokiness)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the ideal temperature to bake crab legs and allow them to cook evenly.

2. Prepare the Crab Legs:

   • If you’re using frozen crab legs, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or run cold water over them for a few minutes to speed up the thawing process.
   • Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to cut a slit down the center of each crab leg, exposing the meat inside (this will make it easier for the butter sauce to infuse the crab).
   • Arrange the crab legs in a large baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with foil for easy cleanup. Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies

3. Make the Butter Sauce:

   • In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter over medium heat.
   • Once the butter is melted, add 2 tablespoons of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
   • Stir in 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if using), 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
   • Allow the butter sauce to simmer for a minute to combine the flavors.

4. Coat the Crab Legs:

   • Pour the butter sauce evenly over the crab legs. Use a spoon or brush to coat the crab legs with the sauce, ensuring they are fully covered for maximum flavor.

5. Bake the Crab Legs:

   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the crab legs moist as they bake.
   • Place the crab legs in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The crab legs are ready when they are heated through and the meat is tender.

6. Serve:

   • Once baked, remove the crab legs from the oven and carefully uncover them. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for added flavor.
   • You can also drizzle any leftover butter sauce over the crab legs for extra richness.

Tips for the Best Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce:

• Thawing Frozen Crab Legs: Make sure the crab legs are fully thawed before baking to ensure even cooking.
• Butter Sauce Variations: Experiment with adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist on the classic butter sauce.
• For Extra Flavor: You can sprinkle the crab legs with Old Bay seasoning or your favorite seafood seasoning before baking.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete seafood meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How long do you bake frozen crab legs?
A1: Frozen crab legs should be baked for about 20-25 minutes. Be sure to cover them with foil while baking to keep them moist. If the crab legs are thawed, they will take only about 15-20 minutes.

Q2: Can I use any type of crab legs for this recipe?
A2: Yes! You can use king crab legs, snow crab legs, or even Dungeness crab legs for this recipe. King crab legs are larger and meatier, while snow crab legs have a sweeter flavor. Both will work well in this butter sauce.

Q3: How do I know when crab legs are fully cooked?
A3: The crab legs are done when the meat is hot and tender. The shells will be vibrant in color, and the meat will pull away easily from the shell. If you’re unsure, you can also check the internal temperature of the meat, which should be about 145°F (63°C).

Q4: Can I make the butter sauce ahead of time?
A4: Yes! You can prepare the butter sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat the sauce before drizzling it over the crab legs.

Conclusion: A Perfectly Baked Crab Legs Recipe

These Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce are an easy yet indulgent seafood dish that is sure to be a hit. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that will impress your guests. Whether it’s for a special dinner, a holiday gathering, or a casual night at home, this recipe is the perfect way to enjoy delicious crab legs without all the hassle.