What is the best way to cook frozen snow crab legs?

The best ways to cook frozen crab legs include steaming, boiling, baking, and grilling. Steaming preserves flavor well. Boiling is quick and simple. Baking is easy and hands-off. Grilling adds a smoky flavor. Pick the method you prefer. All will result in a tasty meal. Remember, they are already cooked so you are simply heating them. To learn more check out What is the Best Way to Cook Frozen Snow Crab Legs: 3 Incredible Methods

How many legs is 1 lb of snow crab legs?

The number of these legs per pound varies by size. You might find 4-6 large legs. Medium legs might range from 6-8 per pound. Smaller ones can have 8 or more. The size impacts the quantity you'll get. The taste is consistent regardless of size.

Is it better to boil or bake snow crab legs?

Both boiling and baking are fine cooking methods. Boiling is faster for those short on time. Baking offers more even heating, reducing the risk of overcooking. The choice depends on your priorities. Both methods can produce tender, delicious crab. It comes down to preference.

Are all snow crab legs precooked?

Yes, almost all commercially sold crab legs are precooked. You only need to heat them through. This makes them easy to prepare. Precooking helps preserve their freshness and flavor. Be careful not to overcook, as this can result in tough meat.

Snow Crab Legs: The Ultimate 7-Step Guide

Name: Crab Legs with Garlic Butter Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 2 lbs crab legs (king crab or snow crab); 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); Lemon wedges (for serving)

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs crab legs (king crab or snow crab)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Prepare the Crab Legs: If the crab legs are frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water for about 20 minutes.
Steam or Boil the Crab Legs:
- Steaming Method: Place a steamer basket over boiling water, add the crab legs, cover, and steam for 5–7 minutes.
- Boiling Method: Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring to a boil. Add the crab legs and cook for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, black pepper, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Coat the Crab Legs:
- Toss the steamed or boiled crab legs in the garlic butter sauce, ensuring they are well-coated.
Serve:
- Transfer to a platter, drizzle with extra garlic butter sauce, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

You can grill the crab legs for extra flavor—just brush them with the butter sauce and grill for 4–5 minutes.
Serve with melted butter on the side for dipping.
Pair with a side of garlic bread or corn on the cob for a complete meal.

Author: Jessica Miller
Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 10
Category: Dinner
Method: Steaming, Boiling
Cuisine: Seafood

Nutrition

Calories: 250 kcal
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: crab legs, seafood dinner, garlic butter sauce, easy crab recipe, king crab, snow crab