Introduction
Baked crab legs in butter sauce is one of the simplest yet most elegant seafood dishes you can prepare. The natural sweetness of king crab pairs perfectly with warm garlic butter, creating a decadent experience with minimal ingredients and effort. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in the comfort of your home — and once you taste it, it becomes an instant favorite.
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Origin
Crab has been enjoyed around the world for centuries, from coastal communities in Alaska to culinary traditions across Asia and Europe. King crab legs, especially from the icy waters of the Bering Sea, became a luxurious delicacy in the 20th century when commercial harvesting expanded. Baking crab legs in butter sauce is a modern American approach, combining seafood tradition with the classic love of garlic butter.
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Cultural Significance
Crab dishes often symbolize:
Celebration and special occasions
Coastal heritage and seafood culture
Luxury and indulgence
Family seafood feasts and holidays
Crab legs are commonly served at gatherings, festive meals, and seafood boils — representing abundance, joy, and shared enjoyment.
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Ingredients Quantity
(Serves 2–3)
Main Ingredients
1 lb (453.59 g) king crab legs
4 tablespoons (56 g) unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
Additional Base Ingredients
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste (optional — crab is usually naturally salty)
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Optional Additions
Fresh parsley, finely chopped — for garnish
Lemon zest — brightens the butter sauce
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes — adds a kick
Old Bay seasoning — classic seafood flavor
2 tablespoons white wine — deepens the sauce
A dash of cayenne — gentle heat
Extra butter for dipping — always welcome!
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Tips for Success
Crack the crab legs slightly so the butter seeps in as they bake.
Don’t overcook — crab is already cooked when sold; you’re reheating it.
Use real butter for richness.
Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for golden edges and aroma.
Serve immediately — crab cools quickly.
Have napkins ready — this is a beautiful, messy, buttery meal!
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Instructions
1. Prepare the Butter Sauce
1. In a small bowl, combine:
melted butter
minced garlic
lemon juice
paprika
black pepper
2. Mix until smooth and fragrant.
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2. Prep the Crab Legs
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place crab legs on a baking sheet.
3. Using kitchen shears, cut small slits into the shells to allow flavor to penetrate.
4. Brush generously with garlic butter sauce, reserving some for serving.
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3. Bake
1. Bake crab legs for 12–15 minutes, until hot and steaming.
2. For extra flavor, broil the top for 1–2 minutes to caramelize the butter.
3. Remove from oven and brush with more butter sauce.
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4. Serve
Serve immediately with lemon wedges, extra melted butter, and optional parsley.
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Description
These baked crab legs come out succulent, sweet, and infused with garlicky butter richness. The tender meat slides right out of the shell, carrying a luxurious flavor that is both simple and unforgettable. Every bite feels comforting yet refined — perfect for both weeknight treats and special dinners.
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Nutritional Information
(Approx. per serving — based on 2 servings)
Calories: 280–350
Protein: 25–27 g
Fat: 18–22 g
Carbohydrates: 0–2 g
Sodium: Naturally high (crab is salty)
Omega-3 fatty acids: Excellent source
This dish is high in lean protein, low in carbs, and rich in healthy minerals.
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Conclusion
Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce is the perfect blend of elegance and ease. Whether you’re celebrating or simply craving something special, this recipe delivers flavor, richness, and satisfaction with very little effort. It’s a go-to recipe you’ll want to save, share, and revisit often.
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Recommendation
Serve with:
Lemon butter dipping sauce
Steamed asparagus or broccoli
Garlic mashed potatoes
Cheesy grits
Crusty bread for soaking up extra butter
Pair with white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a gourmet touch.
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Seafood is naturally nourishing, and enjoying it with mindful portions of butter can be both satisfying and wholesome. Crab offers low-fat protein, essential minerals, and omega-3s—making this luxurious dish a balanced indulgence. Savor it slowly, enjoy the richness, and pair it with fresh sides for a complete, feel-good meal.
