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How to Cook Snow Crab Legs Perfectly

Perfectly cooked snow crab legs on a platter & butter and lemon garnish

An easy recipe to cook sweet and tender snow crab legs perfectly at home. Learn to boil, steam, bake, or grill with simple instructions and a touch of seasoning for a restaurant-quality dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs snow crab legs (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning (optional)
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • ½ cup melted butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
  • Water (for boiling or steaming)

Instructions

  1. Thaw the Crab Legs (if frozen):
    Place the crab legs in the refrigerator overnight or submerge in cold water for 30-45 minutes.
  2. Boil the Crab Legs:
    • Fill a large pot with water. Add Old Bay seasoning and lemon slices.
    • Bring to a boil, then add the crab legs.
    • Cook for 5-6 minutes (thawed) or 8-10 minutes (frozen).
    • Remove using tongs, drain, and serve with melted butter.
  3. Steaming Alternative:
    • Add 2 inches of water to a pot with a steamer basket.
    • Place the crab legs in the basket, cover, and steam for 6-8 minutes.
  4. Serving Suggestion:
    • Serve the crab legs warm with melted butter mixed with garlic. Garnish with lemon slices.

 


Notes

  • Adjust seasoning to taste.
  • Steaming preserves more flavor, while boiling is faster.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Snow crab legs, seafood recipe, crab dinner, easy crab legs, boiled crab legs