Go Back

Steamed King Crab Legs

A delectable and elegant treat that’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 lbs King Crab legs (frozen or fresh) You pick!
  • 1 piece lemon, halved For the burst of zest.
  • 2-3 tablespoons butter Because butter makes everything better.
  • to taste sprinkle Old Bay seasoning or favorite seafood seasoning Optional, but totally recommended!
  • to taste fresh parsley, chopped For garnishing and pretending to be fancy.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Prep your steamer by filling it with 1-2 inches of water. If you don’t have a steamer pot, you can use a deep pot with a heatproof plate or a colander.
  2. Bring the water to a gentle boil, then place the crab legs in your steamer basket or colander.
  3. Squeeze the lemon halves over the crab legs and add them to the water for extra flavor. Add Old Bay seasoning if desired.
Cooking
  1. Cover and steam your crab legs for about 5-7 minutes if thawed, or 10-12 minutes if frozen. They’re done when they turn a bright orange.
  2. While the crab legs are steaming, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
Serving
  1. Carefully remove the crab legs from the steamer and place them on a platter.
  2. Drizzle the melted butter over the crab legs and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
  3. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

For quick days, use pre-made seafood seasoning. If butter isn’t your style, try cocktail sauce or spicy garlic sauce. Pairs beautifully with white wine or a chilled sparkling beverage.