Garlic Butter King Crab Legs

Suggested Meal Time: Lunch / Dinner / Special Occasion
Estimated Calories: ~480–550 kcal per serving

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

For the Crab

• 800 g – 1 kg king crab legs (pre-cooked, thawed if frozen)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crab Legs

1. If using frozen crab legs, thaw them completely.

2. Pat dry with paper towels.

3. Use kitchen scissors to cut open the shells slightly so flavors can seep inside.

2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and cook for 30–40 seconds until fragrant.

3. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, chili flakes (optional), salt, and pepper.

4. Add chopped parsley and turn off the heat.

3. Bake or Broil the Crab

Option A – Bake (Gentler, Juicy Texture)

1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).

2. Place crab legs on a baking tray.

3. Drizzle olive oil and spoon half of the garlic butter sauce over them.

4. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until heated through and lightly golden.

Option B – Broil (For Extra Browning)

1. Place crab legs on a tray and spoon garlic butter on top.

2. Broil for 4–6 minutes, watching closely so they don’t burn.

4. Serve

1. Transfer crab legs to a large serving plate.

2. Drizzle remaining garlic butter over the top.

3. Garnish with chopped parsley.

4. Serve with lemon wedges and extra dipping sauce on the side.

Serving Notes

• Best enjoyed immediately while hot and buttery.

• Pairs perfectly with garlic bread, roasted potatoes, steamed veggies, or pasta.

• Add extra chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Who Will Enjoy This Dish

• Seafood lovers.

• Anyone who wants a rich, indulgent, restaurant-level dish at home.

• Perfect for date nights, holidays, or luxury meals.

Energy-Saving Tips

• Use an air fryer at 180°C for 8–10 minutes (faster and more energy-efficient).

• Melt garlic butter in the microwave to save stovetop time.

• Broil rather than bake if you're in a hurry.