Garlic Butter Baked Crab Legs

Introduction

These Garlic Butter Baked Crab Legs are a luxurious seafood dish, featuring succulent crab legs drenched in rich garlic butter and baked to perfection. Ideal for special occasions or a delightful family dinner, they bring restaurant-quality flavors right to your home.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs crab legs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice together.
3. Arrange the crab legs in a baking dish and generously pour the garlic butter mixture over them.
4. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crab legs are heated through and the garlic butter sauce is bubbling.
6. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a citrusy kick!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4 people and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy version.
• Herb Infusion: Substitute parsley with fresh dill or thyme for a different herbal flavor.
• Different Seafood: Use shrimp or lobster in place of crab legs for a delightful twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen crab legs? Yes, just thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking for the best results.
2. What type of crab legs work best? Alaskan king crab legs or snow crab legs are great choices for this recipe.
3. How do I know when the crab legs are done? They should be heated through and the garlic butter should be bubbling.
4. Can I add more cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to sprinkle more Parmesan or try a different cheese like mozzarella.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, as long as you ensure the ingredients used (like Parmesan) are gluten-free.
6. What can I serve with crab legs? Consider side dishes like corn on the cob, baked potatoes, or a fresh salad.
7. Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter and arrange the crab legs a few hours in advance; just bake before serving.
8. How do I crack the crab legs? Use crab crackers or a mallet to break open the shells easily for eating.
9. Is it necessary to use lemon juice? Lemon juice adds brightness to the dish, but you can omit it if you prefer.
10. What type of butter should I use? Unsalted butter is recommended so you can control the saltiness.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Crab Legs are a quick and indulgent dish that showcases the rich flavors of seafood. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe brings the taste of the ocean to your table. So gather your ingredients, and enjoy a delicious seafood feast!

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