garlic butter crab recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
garlic butter crab recipe
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The Best garlic butter crab recipe

I’ve been making this garlic butter crab recipe for years, and it’s still a favorite in my household. My kids love it when I serve it at family gatherings, and my husband always requests it for special occasions.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. I’ve experimented with various cooking techniques, but the key to achieving that perfect flavor is to not overcook the crab.

When done right, the meat is tender, the flavors are balanced, and everyone leaves the table satisfied. This recipe is a staple in my household, and I’m confident you’ll love it just as much as we do.

The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon juice creates a rich and savory sauce that complements the sweetness of the crab perfectly. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress your guests.

Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or just want a quick weeknight dinner, this garlic butter crab recipe is an excellent choice.

Garlic Butter Crab

Garlic Butter Crab

4.7 from 1789 votes

This garlic butter crab recipe features fresh crab legs bathed in a rich, fragrant garlic butter sauce. The dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a special seafood dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Crab

2 lbs crab legs (king or snow crab), thawed if frozen
1/2 cup unsalted butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the crab legs under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2Use kitchen shears or a knife to cut each leg at the joints into smaller pieces, about 4 to 5 inches long.
3This makes them easier to handle and allows the garlic butter to penetrate the meat.
4In a large skillet or pot, melt the butter over medium heat until it begins to foam.
5Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
6The butter should be bubbling gently around the garlic.
7Place the crab leg pieces into the skillet in a single layer, spooning the garlic butter over the top.
8Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally to redistribute the butter.
9The crab is done when the shells turn bright red and the meat is opaque and heated through.
10Remove the skillet from the heat and squeeze the lemon juice over the crab legs.
11Sprinkle with chopped parsley and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
12Transfer the crab legs to a serving platter and pour any remaining garlic butter from the pan over the top.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or pot with lid
Tongs
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring spoons
Serving platter

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 16g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 4g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 42g

📝Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine or a pinch of Old Bay seasoning to the butter. Serve with lemon wedges and warm crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Watch Video Of How Garlic Butter Crab Works

This garlic butter crab recipe has become a staple in our household because it’s easy to make and always impressive on special occasions. The best part is that it reheats beautifully if you need to make ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

One trick I use when reheating is to add a splash of lemon juice to keep the flavors bright and prevent sogginess. Serve with steamed vegetables or rice for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to please even picky eaters.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Crab

Q1: What type of crab should I use for this recipe?

A1: You can use any type of crab you like, but snow crab or Dungeness crab work particularly well with the garlic butter sauce. Snow crab has a firmer texture that holds up well to the high heat required for this recipe.

Q2: How long should I cook the crab?

A2: Cooking time will depend on the size of your crabs, but generally speaking, you want to cook them until they’re opaque and flake easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook them, as this can result in tough or rubbery meat.

Q3: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A3: Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. However, keep in mind that the sauce may thicken slightly after refrigeration.

Q4: What’s the best way to store leftover crab?

A4: Store leftover crab in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze cooked crab for up to 6 months if you prefer.

Q5: Can I substitute other types of seafood for the crab?

A5: While you can use other types of seafood in place of crab, keep in mind that they may have different cooking times and requirements. For example, shrimp would cook much faster than crab and might require adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

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