Baked Crab Legs with a Flavorful Butter Sauce: An Easy Seafood Delight
Why You’ll Love Baked Crab Legs with a Flavorful Butter Sauce
Craving buttery, tender crab legs without the mess of boiling or steaming? Baked crab legs with a flavorful butter sauce are a game-changer. This oven-baked method locks in moisture and enhances the natural sweetness of the crab meat while the seasoned garlic butter adds irresistible richness.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple seafood night, this recipe is easy, elegant, and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the crab legs:
2 lbs of snow crab legs or king crab legs (thawed if frozen)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Fresh parsley (optional garnish)
For the flavorful butter sauce:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Make the Butter Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in Old Bay seasoning, paprika, onion powder, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Arrange the Crab Legs
Place the crab legs on the prepared baking sheet. Brush generously with the butter sauce, making sure to get into the cracks and crevices for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the crab legs with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes. For extra flavor, baste once during baking with more of the butter sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven, uncover, and drizzle with any remaining butter sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges and dipping bowls of butter sauce on the side.
Tips for the Best Baked Crab Legs
Use thawed crab legs for even cooking.
Don’t skip the foil covering—this keeps the crab moist.
Add a touch of white wine or Cajun seasoning for a gourmet twist.
Pair with side dishes like garlic mashed potatoes, buttered corn on the cob, or roasted asparagus.
Why Bake Instead of Boil?
Baking crab legs not only saves on cleanup, but it also intensifies the flavor and prevents water from diluting the buttery sauce. Plus, this method infuses every bite with the spices and aromatics from the sauce—no dipping required (though we still recommend it!).
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers? Store baked crab legs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or gently steam them until heated through. Avoid microwaving, which can make the meat rubbery.
FAQs: Baked Crab Legs with Butter Sauce
Can I use frozen crab legs?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely for even cooking and best flavor.
What type of crab legs is best?
Snow crab legs are easier to crack and more budget-friendly, while king crab legs are meatier and more luxurious.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the butter sauce ahead and refrigerate it, but it’s best to bake the crab legs just before serving.
Final Thoughts
Baked crab legs with a flavorful butter sauce are the ultimate seafood indulgence made easy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself, this recipe brings coastal vibes and buttery bliss to your table—no fancy tools required.
Ready to wow your taste buds? Bookmark this recipe and make it your go-to for crab night!
