Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds crab legs (pre-cooked and thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Prepare the Crab Legs:
- Use kitchen shears to carefully cut along the length of the crab legs to make it easier to eat and to allow the butter sauce to penetrate.
- Arrange the crab legs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Make the Butter Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the butter sauce.
- Coat Crab Legs:
- Brush the butter sauce generously over the crab legs, making sure to coat them evenly.
- Bake the Crab Legs:
- Place the baking sheet with the crab legs in the preheated oven.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the crab legs are heated through and the butter sauce is bubbling and fragrant.
- Serve:
- Carefully transfer the baked crab legs to a serving platter.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the crab meat.
Tips:
- If your crab legs are still frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before using.
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle some Old Bay seasoning or seafood seasoning over the crab legs before brushing them with the butter sauce.
- Serve the baked crab legs with additional melted butter or a side of garlic aioli for dipping.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 1g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 30g
Enjoy these delicious baked crab legs in butter sauce as a delightful seafood dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a flavorful weeknight meal!
