Home chefs wondering how to cook crab legs at home have come to the right place. You can easily master these spindly legs no matter which preparation method you choose. Preparing crab legs at home is a fun way to enjoy the unbeatable flavor of crab legs.

 

How to Cook Crab Legs: Different Methods

Steamed Crab Legs

Some chefs say that steaming crab legs increases flavor retention. Plan ahead timewise, as steamer baskets usually hold 1 pound of crab legs.

  1. Fill a large pot with about 1 inch of water.
  2. Affix a steamer basket over the water and add crab legs to the basket.
  3. Bring water to a boil.
  4. Once the water is boiling, bring the heat to a simmer and place a cover over the pot.
  5. Let the covered crab legs steam in that low simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes.
  6. Remove the crab legs from the steamer basket with long-handled tongs. Cool, and serve.

 

Boiled Crab Legs

Boiling is more popular with whole crabs, but works for crab legs, as well. The caveat to this method is finding a stock pot that is large enough for all the crab legs.

  1. Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add salt to taste, as well as lemon wedges, beer, wine, or seasoning mixes, like Old Bay. Chef’s choice!
  2. Add crab legs to the boiling water using a pair of long-handled tongs. Make sure the legs are fully covered in water.
  3. Bring water back to a robust boil, and let the crab legs simmer until heated through, usually about 5 minutes.
  4. Remove crab legs from the pot with long-handled tongs. Cool, and serve.

 

Grilled Crab Legs

Wondering how to cook crab legs with easy-clean up? This preparation method keeps the heat outside and the mess minimal. The crab legs will also have a delicious, smoky flavor.

  1. Prepare the grill for medium-heat and clean grates with a wire brush.
  2. Brush crab legs with around 1 tablespoon of oil, and set them directly on the grill.
  3. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, covered.
  4. Remove crab legs from the grill. Cool, and serve.

An alternative grilling method uses aluminum foil clusters.

  1. Prepare the grill for medium/high heat and clean grates with a wire brush.
  2. Use aluminum foil to create packets for the crab legs. Fold in all edges, so that the crab legs are sealed within the aluminum foil packets.
  3. Grill for about 15 to 20 minutes if frozen, or 10 minutes if thawed.
  4. Remove crab legs from the grill. Cool, and serve.

After mastering how to cook crab legs, make sure to tie the meal together with a couple crab dinner essentials. Drawn butter will enhance the crab’s amazing natural flavor. Pair the crab legs with side dishes, like corn on the cob, rice pilaf, or fresh salad, to take the meal to the next level.

 

How to Cook Crab Legs: A Video

Below is a video that shows how to cook crab legs in 3 popular ways:

YouTube video

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