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Listen, if you’re ready to feel like a seafood boss in your own kitchen, these Garlic Butter Crab Legs are where it’s at. I’m talking buttery, garlicky goodness dripping off tender crab legs, with a hint of Cajun spice to keep things exciting.

I love how simple this recipe is. We’re steaming the crab legs until they’re just right, and then pouring a sauce over them that’s so delicious, garlic, lemon, Old Bay, and a dash of smoked paprika to keep things interesting.
Let’s be real, who needs a seafood boil restaurant when you can whip this up at home in no time? Grab those lemon slices, get your dipping butter ready, and let’s dig in.
The best part is you’re enjoying this at home so you can really go in while eating those crab legs without any judgment.
Ingredients for crab legs with garlic butter

Snow crab legs: Sweet, tender, and perfect for soaking up all that buttery, garlicky goodness.
Butter: The rich, creamy base that pulls everything together.
Garlic: Because everything’s better when it’s garlicky!
Lemon juice: Zesty and fresh, it brightens up the flavors.
Cajun seasoning & Old Bay: Brings the spice and a little kick to keep things lively.
Smoked paprika & Italian seasoning: Adds warmth and an herby touch.
Parsley: For a fresh finish and a pop of green.
How to make garlic butter crab legs
Steam those crab legs until they’re perfect (about 7 minutes).

While they cook, melt butter in a pan and skim the foam for a slightly clarified texture, just a little chef’s trick.

Add garlic, lemon juice, and spices, whisking them together. Once the crab legs are ready, drizzle the garlic butter all over them and garnish with parsley.
Serve with lemon slices and dig in like the seafood royalty you are!
Pair this with my Cajun Butter Sauce for some extra razzle dazzle.
Related recipes
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Commonly Asked Questions
Yes! Feel free to swap in king crab legs or Dungeness crab. Just adjust the steaming time as needed because those bigger guys might need a few extra minutes.
Crab legs love a good side like garlic bread, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad. You can also go for roasted veggies or mashed potatoes if you want to make it a full meal.
Yes, just wrap them up tight in foil or an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat by steaming or baking when you’re ready to enjoy again.

Garlic Butter Crab Legs (Video)
Ingredients
- 3 lb snow crab legs
- 1 cup water
- 2 1/4 unsalted butter
- Juice of one lemon
- 8 garlic cloves , minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp white sugar
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp old bay seasoning
- parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Put water and a steaming basket in a large pot or pan. Large enough to hold the crab legs. Bring to a boil. Add the crab legs, cover and let steam for 7 minutes.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan or skillet on medium-high heat. I like to skim off some of the white foam that forms on top, so the butter is a little clarified but not all the way. This is optional.
- Add the garlic & seasonings. Whisk to incorporate. Let cook for a few minutes.
- Remove the crab legs and place them on a large plate for serving. I like to use a baking dish. Pour the garlic butter over the crab legs, reserve about 1/4 cup for dipping on the side if you’d like. Sprinkle parsley on top.
- Eat and enjoy! I like to slice a few lemons to have on the side as well.
Video
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.