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:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Coat Crab Legs:
   • Brush the butter sauce generously over the crab legs, making sure to coat them evenly.
5. 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.
6. 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!