How to Make Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange crab legs in a large baking dish or on a rimmed sheet pan.
If needed, use kitchen shears to lightly cut the shells for easier eating.
Step 2: Make the Butter Sauce
In a bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, Old Bay, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
This sauce is the heart of the dish—rich, fragrant, and deeply savory.
Step 3: Coat the Crab Legs
Pour the butter sauce generously over the crab legs, making sure it drips into the shells.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the crab legs are heated through and fragrant.
For extra flavor, uncover during the last 5 minutes and spoon sauce over the crab again.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon.
Serve hot with extra butter sauce on the side.
Serving Suggestions
Baked crab legs pair beautifully with:
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Crusty bread for soaking up butter
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Roasted potatoes or corn on the cob
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Simple green salad
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Steamed rice or pasta
Keep the sides simple—let the crab shine.
Tips for Perfect Crab Legs
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Don’t overbake—crab dries out quickly
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Always cover with foil for moisture
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Use unsalted butter so you control the seasoning
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Fresh lemon brightens the richness
Final Thought
Baked crab legs in butter sauce are indulgent without being intimidating. The flavors are bold, the method is simple, and the result feels special every time. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary evening into a memorable one—with very little effort.
