Garlic Butter Baked King Crab Legs

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🦀 Garlic Butter Baked King Crab Legs

Description

Garlic Butter Baked King Crab Legs are the ultimate seafood indulgence—sweet, tender crab meat baked to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe is simple yet elegant, perfect for special occasions, date nights, or when you want to treat yourself to restaurant-quality seafood at home. Baking enhances the natural sweetness of the crab while the garlic butter adds a savory, aromatic depth that makes every bite unforgettable.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Baked King Crab Legs

  • 2 lbs king crab legs (thawed if frozen)

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

  • ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Prepare Crab Legs: Using kitchen shears, carefully cut open the top of the crab shells to expose the meat. Place them on a lined baking sheet.

  3. Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.

  4. Brush and Bake: Generously brush the garlic butter over the crab meat. Pour any remaining sauce over the legs.

  5. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, until the crab is heated through and fragrant.

  6. Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with extra parsley, and serve hot with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • If using frozen crab legs, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

  • King crab legs are already pre-cooked when sold; baking mainly reheats them and infuses flavor.

  • Don’t overbake, or the crab meat may become tough.

Tips

  • Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for the best flavor.

  • For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the butter sauce.

  • Pair with a side of garlic bread, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

  • Serve with melted garlic butter dipping sauce for extra indulgence.

Servings

  • Serves 4 people (about ½ lb of crab legs per serving).

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 420

  • Protein: 35g

  • Fat: 28g

  • Carbohydrates: 2g

  • Fiber: 0g

  • Sugar: 0g

  • Sodium: 1100mg

Health Benefits

  • High in protein: Supports muscle health and keeps you full.

  • Rich in omega-3 fatty acids: Promotes heart and brain health.

  • Low in carbs: Great for keto and low-carb diets.

  • Contains vitamins and minerals: Especially vitamin B12, zinc, copper, and selenium.

Q & A

Q: Can I use snow crab instead of king crab?
A: Yes! Snow crab works well and is often more affordable, but the legs are smaller.

Q: Can I prepare the butter sauce in advance?
A: Absolutely. Make it up to a day ahead and reheat gently before using.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Wrap in foil with a little butter and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may dry out the crab.

Q: Can I make this on the grill instead of the oven?
A: Yes—grill over medium heat for 5–7 minutes after brushing with garlic butter.

Q: What wine pairs well with this dish?
A: A crisp Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Grigio complements the buttery crab perfectly.

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