Save Enjoy succulent crab legs smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, served with fresh lemon wedges for a vibrant, keto-friendly seafood dish. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a high-protein, low-carb meal that feels incredibly indulgent without the effort of a restaurant visit.
Save The combination of king crab and a savory garlic butter makes this dish a standout for special occasions or a simple, healthy weeknight dinner. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's a testament to how fresh ingredients can shine with minimal preparation.
Ingredients
- Seafood: 1.5 lbs (680 g) king crab legs, thawed if frozen
- Garlic Butter Sauce: 6 tbsp (85 g) unsalted butter, 4 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped), 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- To Serve: 1 large lemon (cut into wedges), 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- Step 2
- Place the crab legs on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 3
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned. Stir in 1 tbsp parsley, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Step 4
- Brush the garlic butter generously over the crab legs, reserving a little for serving.
- Step 5
- Bake the crab legs for 8–10 minutes, until heated through and the butter is bubbling.
- Step 6
- Transfer crab legs to a serving platter. Drizzle with reserved garlic butter and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Step 7
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra flavor, steam or grill the crab legs before adding the garlic butter. This infuses the meat with more depth while ensuring it remains tender and succulent.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute king crab with snow crab if preferred; both work beautifully with the garlic butter. You can also adjust the heat by adding more crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a spicier kick.
Serviervorschläge
Pair with a crisp dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc to complement the rich butter. Serve with a side of leafy greens or cauliflower mash for a complete and satisfying keto meal.
Save Serve these Garlic Butter Crab Legs immediately to enjoy the butter while it's still bubbling and the crab is hot. It’s a luxury seafood experience that’s sure to become a favorite in your keto recipe rotation.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → Can I use frozen crab legs?
Yes, simply thaw the crab legs in the refrigerator overnight or run under cool water for 30 minutes before cooking. Frozen crab works beautifully with this preparation method.
- → What's the best way to reheat leftovers?
Gently reheat in a 325°F oven for 5-7 minutes, brushing with additional butter to prevent drying. Avoid microwaving as it can toughen the delicate meat.
- → Can I substitute snow crab for king crab?
Absolutely. Snow crab legs offer sweet, tender meat and work well with this garlic butter preparation. Adjust cooking time slightly smaller legs typically need 6-8 minutes.
- → How do I know when crab legs are done?
The shells will turn bright red-orange and the meat will be hot to the touch. The butter should be bubbling around the edges, indicating proper heating throughout.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc, Chablis, or dry Pinot Grigio complements the rich butter and sweet crab flavors beautifully. The acidity cuts through the butter while enhancing the seafood.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute butter with ghee or a high-quality olive oil for a dairy-free version. The garlic and herbs still infuse beautifully, though the richness will be slightly different.