How To Cook Crab Legs (Boil, Steam, Broil)

Here’s the thing most restaurants won’t tell you: cooking crab legs at home is ridiculously easy.

Trust me, I used to think it was some gourmet-level feat, but after trying it myself, I realized it’s one of the simplest meals you can make.

Whether you prefer them boiled, broiled, or steamed, you can whip up restaurant-quality crab legs in no time.

Because most crab legs are pre-cooked and flash-frozen, all you’re really doing is reheating them.

It’s quick, straightforward, and incredibly rewarding. Let me share my experience—and a few personal tips—to help you make perfect crab legs at home.

What Type of Crab Legs Should You Buy?

• Dungeness: Smaller and sweeter, usually sold in clusters of about four legs. They’re easy to handle and perfect for first-timers.
• King Crab: These are the big boys! Their meaty legs are sold individually and make a stunning centerpiece for any meal.
• Snow Crab: Mid-sized and often sold in clusters. Be warned—they’ve become harder to find (and pricier) due to recent population declines.

What’s the Best Way to Cook Crab Legs?

@twilds BEST CRAB LEGS EVER! And it only took 20 minutes 😋 #crablegs #twilds #crablegrecipe #blackpeople #bestcrablegs #quickrecipes #atlantacontentcreator ♬ original sound – Taylor Wilds

I’ve tried boiling, steaming, and broiling, and honestly, they all deliver juicy, tender crabmeat. Your choice depends on the tools you have and how much time you want to spend.

• Boiling: Great if you have a large pot and want to cook multiple batches quickly.
• Steaming: Perfect for those who want slightly firmer crabmeat.
• Broiling: My go-to when I’m feeling fancy—it gives the crab a gorgeous browned finish.

Ingredients

How Long Does It Take?

Since they’re pre-cooked, crab legs only need to be reheated:

• Boiling/Steaming: About 5 minutes.
• Broiling: 2 to 6 minutes, depending on the size.

How Do You Serve Them?

Part of the fun is cracking them open to get to the meat. Here’s how I make it an enjoyable experience for everyone at the table:

• Equip Your Guests: Provide kitchen shears or seafood crackers for easy shell-breaking. Trust me, no one wants to wrestle with crab legs and lose.
• Serve with the Essentials: Melted, salted butter and lemon wedges are non-negotiable. Add a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning to the butter for extra zing!

What to Serve with

The beauty of crab legs is that they pair well with so many sides. Here are my favorites:

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky flavors complement the crab perfectly.
• Baked Potatoes: Load them up with butter and sour cream for a hearty addition.
• Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing counterpoint to the rich crab meat.
• Garlic Bread: Because you’ll want something to mop up all that melted butter!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make-Ahead: Cooked crab legs can be refrigerated, and the meat can be used in dishes like crab salad, hot crab dip, or even creamy crab pasta.
• Storage: Remove the meat from the shells and store it in an airtight container for up to three days.

My Favorite Way to Cook Crab Legs

Here’s how I like to cook crab legs using three foolproof methods. You can’t go wrong with any of these:

Option 1: Boiled Crab Legs

1. Fill a large stockpot about three-quarters full with water and add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt.
2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Add the crab legs, bending them if needed to fit in the pot.
3. Cover and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes or until heated through.
4. Serve immediately with melted butter and lemon.

Option 2: Steamed Crab Legs

1. Place a steamer basket in a large stockpot. Add enough water to come about an inch below the basket.
2. Bring the water to a boil. Arrange the crab legs in the basket, cluster-side down.
3. Cover and steam for 5 minutes (or 4 minutes for smaller legs).
4. Serve warm with dipping sauce.

Option 3: Broiled Crab Legs

Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce: A Luxurious Seafood Treat 🦀 🧈

Ingredients:

2 lbs crab legs (king or snow crab)
½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste… pic.twitter.com/EnRGkXkQzq

— xingtian99 (@xingtian991314) December 7, 2024

1. Preheat your oven to broil. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil.
2. Arrange the crab legs in a single layer. Melt 1 tablespoon of salted butter and brush it over the exposed shells.
3. Broil for 2 to 6 minutes, flipping halfway through. The shells will brown slightly, and you might hear some crackling.
4. Serve with extra butter and lemon wedges.

Final Thoughts

Cooking crab legs at home is easier than you’d think—and a whole lot of fun. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner or just treating yourself, these methods guarantee impressive results every time.

With a little butter, some lemon, and a few simple tools, you can create a meal that rivals any seafood restaurant.

So, what are you waiting for? Get cracking!