Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce
Introduction:
There’s something inherently luxurious about indulging in succulent crab legs, and when baked to perfection in a rich butter sauce, the experience is elevated to new heights. Baked crab legs offer a fuss-free, yet delicious way to enjoy seafood without needing to break the bank at a fancy restaurant. With the buttery goodness infused with garlic, lemon, and herbs, this recipe is simple yet flavorful, making it ideal for family dinners or special occasions. Plus, by baking the crab legs, you retain all their delicate sweetness while ensuring every bite is infused with the decadent sauce.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs crab legs (king crab or snow crab)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup. - Prepare the Butter Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined. - Prep the Crab Legs:
If your crab legs are frozen, allow them to thaw completely. Place the crab legs on the prepared baking sheet. - Coat the Crab Legs:
Using a basting brush, generously coat the crab legs with the butter sauce. Make sure to get some of the sauce underneath the shells for maximum flavor. Reserve a small portion of the sauce for later use. - Bake the Crab Legs:
Cover the baking sheet with foil and bake the crab legs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crab legs are heated through and the butter sauce is bubbling. - Serve:
Remove the crab legs from the oven and drizzle with the remaining butter sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges and extra parsley. Serve immediately with additional melted butter for dipping.
Tips:
- To make it easier to eat, you can slightly crack the shells before baking, allowing the butter sauce to seep in more effectively.
- Serve with crusty bread or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy your delicious baked crab legs in butter sauce! Perfect for a special evening or just because you deserve a treat.