If you’re a seafood lover in search of a rich, flavorful, and elegant dish, Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce delivers all that and more. With tender king crab legs bathed in a garlicky, buttery sauce seasoned with zesty Creole spice and fresh lemon juice, this recipe transforms any dinner into a special occasion. Whether you’re hosting guests or craving a solo indulgence, this dish is easy to make and packed with ocean-fresh flavor.
This guide walks you through the full recipe, offers seasoning tips and flavorful variations, and even provides keto and low-carb modifications to suit different diets—all in one complete seafood experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crab Legs
- 1 lb (453.59g) king crab legs (thawed if frozen)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1–2 teaspoons (4g–8g) Creole seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ tablespoon (7.5ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon (3g) chopped fresh chives or parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the crab legs to heat evenly without drying out.
Prepare the Crab Legs
If your crab legs are frozen, allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, rinse under cold running water to remove ice crystals. Pat them completely dry with paper towels to help the butter sauce adhere properly.
Make the Butter Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Creole seasoning, and lemon juice. Stir until the ingredients are fully blended into a smooth, aromatic sauce.
Arrange and Season
Place the crab legs in a single layer in a shallow baking dish or on a foil-lined baking sheet. Generously brush the butter sauce over each crab leg, coating all sides thoroughly.
Bake
Transfer the crab legs to the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and the butter is sizzling. You’ll notice the aroma of garlic and spices wafting through your kitchen—this is when you know magic is happening.
Garnish and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives or parsley over the crab legs for a vibrant touch of green and a subtle herbal note. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the warm, buttery crab meat.
Flavor Variations and Customization
Fresh vs. Frozen Crab Legs
While fresh crab legs offer unbeatable flavor and texture, frozen crab legs are a great option and work beautifully in this recipe. Just ensure they are fully thawed and rinsed before cooking.
Spice Adjustments
Creole seasoning offers a bold, savory kick, but you can easily tailor it to your taste. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more if you prefer a spicier, more robust flavor. For a milder option, substitute with Old Bay seasoning or a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Add More Flavor
- Fresh herbs: Add a pinch of thyme, dill, or rosemary to the butter sauce.
- White wine: A splash of dry white wine in the sauce adds depth and sophistication.
- Citrus zest: A bit of lemon or orange zest brightens the dish with fresh acidity.
- Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the crab before baking for a cheesy crust.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce are versatile enough to be served on their own or as part of a seafood spread. Here are some pairing ideas:
- Garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta
- Steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans
- Crisp garden salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Crusty bread for mopping up the butter sauce
Keto and Low-Carb Adaptations
Keto Version
Crab legs are naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making them perfect for a ketogenic diet. To keep the dish fully keto:
- Use grass-fed butter for added healthy fats.
- Omit the lemon juice or reduce it to 1 teaspoon to cut back on carbs.
- Ensure your Creole seasoning is sugar-free and carb-conscious.
- Serve with cauliflower mash or sautéed leafy greens.
Low-Carb Version
Follow the same directions as the keto version. Also:
- Avoid any Creole seasoning blends that list sugar or cornstarch.
- Complement the meal with roasted vegetables or a cabbage slaw dressed with olive oil and vinegar.
Tips for Perfect Baked Crab Legs
- Don’t overcook: Crab legs are already cooked when sold frozen, so you’re only reheating them. Overcooking can dry out the meat.
- Crack before serving: Gently score the shell with kitchen shears to make eating easier for guests.
- Use foil for easy cleanup: Lining the baking dish with aluminum foil helps reduce cleanup time.
- Double the butter: For dipping fans, consider doubling the butter sauce recipe and serve extra on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of crab legs?
Yes, this recipe works beautifully with snow crab, Dungeness crab, or even blue crab. Just adjust baking time depending on their size.
Can I use pre-made Creole seasoning?
Absolutely. Store-bought Creole seasoning works fine, but make sure it doesn’t contain unwanted fillers or sugars if you’re doing keto or low-carb.
Can I grill the crab legs instead of baking them?
Yes. To grill, brush the crab legs with butter sauce and place over medium heat. Grill for 5–7 minutes per side, turning carefully.
Are crab legs keto-friendly?
Yes, they are. Crab legs contain almost no carbs, making them ideal for a keto or low-carb diet. Just ensure your butter sauce doesn’t include high-carb additives.
How do I reheat leftover crab legs?
To reheat, wrap crab legs in foil with a bit of leftover butter sauce and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the meat.
Conclusion
Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce is an indulgent yet incredibly easy seafood recipe that brings the elegance of a gourmet restaurant to your home kitchen. With its buttery richness, garlicky undertone, and the gentle heat of Creole seasoning, this dish is both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to the bold flavors of the sea, this recipe is a must-try.
You can stick with the classic version or tweak it with herbs, wine, or cheese to make it your own. Plus, with keto and low-carb adaptations available, it’s a flexible option for nearly every diet.