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Garlic Butter Crab Legs

Succulent crab legs tossed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce with a hint of spice and fresh herbs. This incredibly easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping appetizer.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Dinner
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For Boiling the Crab Legs
  • 2 lbs crab legs king crab, snow crab, or lobster claws
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 lemon lemon cut into wedges
  • 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Small saucepan
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Fill a large pot with 4 cups of water, lemon wedges, and 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning. Bring to a rolling boil. Add crab legs and par-boil for 5-6 minutes until they turn pink. Remove crab legs with tongs and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In a small saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 6 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes. Stir in 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley.
  4. Step 4: Arrange the par-boiled crab legs on a serving platter. Generously pour the garlic butter sauce over the crab legs, ensuring they are well-coated. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges.

Notes

Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the leftover sauce. For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.