Broiled Crab Legs
Broiled crab legs are a delicious seafood dish featuring tender, sweet Alaskan King crab brushed with buttery lemon sauce, perfect for a quick, elegant meal or special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw crab legs.
- Combine 1/4 cup of melted butter with lemon juice and blend well.
- Place crab legs on a broiler rack and brush with the butter sauce.
- Broil 3 to 4 inches from heat for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Brush once more with sauce and serve with additional butter if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled. If you don't have Alaskan King crab, snow crab legs can be a suitable alternative. Ensure the crab legs are thoroughly thawed before broiling for even cooking. Brush the legs generously with butter for added richness. This recipe pairs beautifully with Light 'N Lemony Fish for a delightful seafood feast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the broiled crab legs with lemon wedges and a side of melted butter for dipping. They pair wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving with garlic bread or over a bed of rice. This dish also complements seafood recipes like Crab Cakes Maryland Style for a festive occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover crab legs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crab rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broiled Crab Legs contains roughly 444 calories, with 91g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (183% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh crab legs instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh crab legs can be used instead of frozen. Just ensure they are cooked and ready to eat before broiling. Adjust the cooking time as fresh legs may require less time to heat through.
What should I serve with broiled crab legs?
Broiled crab legs are delicious served with garlic butter, lemon wedges, and sides like coleslaw or a light salad. They also pair well with baked potatoes or rice dishes for a complete meal.
How do I know when the crab legs are done broiling?
Crab legs are done when they are heated through and slightly browned on the surface. The meat should be opaque and flaky. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make them tough.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).