Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce

Step 3: Arrange and Coat the Crab Legs

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly brush it with olive oil. Arrange the crab legs in a single layer.
Using a basting brush or spoon, generously coat the crab legs with the butter sauce, making sure to drizzle some into the cracked sections for maximum flavor.

Pour any remaining sauce into the bottom of the pan—this will create a rich, buttery pool to baste the crab as it bakes.

Step 4: Bake the Crab Legs

Cover the baking sheet tightly with another sheet of foil to trap in steam and moisture.
Bake for 25 minutes if using thawed crab legs, or 30–35 minutes if they are still slightly frozen.

Halfway through baking, open the foil and spoon some of the melted butter sauce over the crab legs to keep them moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Broil for a Golden Finish (Optional)

For extra flavor and a light golden finish, remove the top foil after baking and broil for 3–4 minutes. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn—the goal is just a slight caramelization on the shells.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the baked crab legs to a large platter.
Pour the remaining butter sauce from the pan into small ramekins for dipping. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.

Serve immediately with crusty bread, steamed vegetables, or corn on the cob to soak up every last drop of buttery goodness.

🍽️ Tips for Success

• Use quality butter: Real unsalted butter gives the richest flavor—avoid margarine substitutes.
• Don’t overbake: Crab legs are pre-cooked when purchased; overbaking can make them tough and rubbery.
• Add a twist: Try mixing honey and cayenne for a sweet-heat version, or include a splash of white wine in the butter sauce for a gourmet touch.
• Serve hot: Crab meat tastes best warm, with the butter sauce still melted and aromatic.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce is a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to prepare. The combination of tender crab meat, aromatic garlic butter, and fresh lemon creates a restaurant-quality experience right in your kitchen. Whether for a special occasion or a simple weekend treat, this recipe promises to impress every seafood lover at the table.

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