Go Back

Snow Crab Legs with Garlic Butter

A comforting and delicious dish featuring succulent snow crab legs served with aromatic garlic butter, perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Seafood
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 lbs pre-cooked snow crab legs Opt for fresh if you can; they taste unbeatable!
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter Use unsalted to keep control over the saltiness.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic gives it that extra flavor boost!
  • 1 unit lemon (cut into wedges) Lemon adds a zesty brightness!
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning Optional for that classic seafood flavor.
  • 1 unit fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) A pop of color always makes a dish special!
  • unit melted butter or garlic butter for serving Because more butter is always better!

Method
 

Cooking Methods
  1. Choose your favorite method—steaming, boiling, or grilling—each brings out the sweet, tender meat of the crab.
  2. Steaming: Fill a large pot with about 2 inches of water and bring it to a rolling boil. Place a steam basket or colander over the boiling water, carefully add the crab legs to the basket, then cover with a lid. Steam for 6-8 minutes (10 minutes if frozen). Serve hot with lemon wedges and melted butter.
  3. Boiling: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the crab legs and cook for 4-5 minutes (or 6-7 minutes if frozen). Use tongs to remove them and let them drain. Plate beautifully, sprinkling with garlic butter and your favorite garnishes.
  4. Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Brush the crab legs with garlic butter or olive oil. Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning once to get those perfect grill marks. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Garlic Butter Dipping Sauce
  1. In a small pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Stir in some lemon juice and a dash of salt, then serve warm alongside your crab legs.

Notes

Time-Saving Trick: Use pre-cooked crab legs; they’re ready in minutes! If the crab legs are tough, they might be overcooked. Just turn down the heat! Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick if you’re feeling adventurous.