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Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the crab legs heat through without drying out.
Step 2: Prepare the Crab Legs
- If your crab legs are frozen, make sure to thaw them completely. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for a few minutes.
- Once thawed, use kitchen shears to cut the crab legs lengthwise, allowing the butter sauce to seep in and the meat to be easily accessible.
Step 3: Make the Butter Sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Bake the Crab Legs
- Place the prepared crab legs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Brush the butter sauce generously over the crab legs, ensuring they are well-coated. Reserve some sauce for serving.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crab legs are heated through and fragrant.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the crab legs from the oven and drizzle any remaining butter sauce over them.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Crab Legs
- Choosing Crab Legs: King crab legs are meaty and luxurious, while snow crab legs offer a sweeter flavor. Choose according to your preference and availability.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the crab legs to avoid overcooking. They are already pre-cooked, so you only need to warm them through.
- Side Dishes: Pair your baked crab legs with sides like garlic bread, corn on the cob, or a light salad to complement the meal without overwhelming the delicate crab flavor.
Conclusion
Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce are a delicious and elegant dish that brings the taste of the ocean right to your dinner table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a decadent seafood meal, this recipe is sure to impress. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, you can enjoy restaurant-quality crab legs from the comfort of your home. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to dive into a seafood feast that you won’t soon forget!