Crab legs from the grocery store are almost always sold already cooked and then frozen, to ensure the flavor of the meat. When you're preparing, you're simply reheating them. So it's important you make sure you don't overcook them.
Crab Legs
Buy 8 ounces to one pound of crab legs per person. Remember the shell is included in the weight!
And then choose your cooking style! Here are four easy ways to make them:
How to Boil Crab Legs
- Fill a large saucepan halfway with cold water.
- Bring the water to the boil and then drop the crab legs in.
- Reduce the heat slightly and simmer the crab legs for 5 - 7 minutes.
- Remove from the water and rinse the crab legs.
- Serve hot with melted butter and fresh lemon wedges on the side.
How to Steam Crab Legs
- Pour 2 cups of water in a steamer or a large pot.
- Add 1 tablespoon of salt and bring to a boil.
- Add the crab legs, placing them onto a rack in the bottom of the pan or into a steaming basket.
- As the water starts to boil again, begin timing, and steam the crab legs for 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and serve hot with melted butter and lemon wedges.
How to Bake Crab Legs
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Crack the crab legs and place them on a cookie sheet.
- Brush the crab legs with butter or oil, seasoning and lemon juice and bake in the oven for 8 - 9 minutes.
How to Microwave Crab Legs
- Wrap the crab legs in a damp paper towel and cook on high for 2 - 3 minutes.
- Serve hot with butter, cocktail sauce or lemon wedges.
Never eaten crab legs before? Here's how you crack crab legs to get the meat out.
