Our foolproof technique yields restaurant-quality crab legs every time—and its far easier than you might think.
Crab legs are a familiar sight at restaurants and raw bars, piled high over a bed of ice on cold seafood platters or arranged on buffet tables at weddings and other big parties. Theyre the kind of indulgence you might load up on when you see them out, but have you ever wondered how to cook crab legs at home? While it may seem like something youd need special equipment or culinary chops to pull off, crab legs are actually incredibly easy to prepare. In fact, the best way to cook them is to simply steam them. All you need is a big pot and a steamer basket—or, in a pinch, a colander.
Boiling crabs is the go-to cooking method Boiling crab is by far the most common method for getting a crab feast from pot to table. It’s fuss-free and easy to control using a single large pot, some water, and seasoning to taste. It also preserves the natural, light, sea-fresh taste you want on your plate.
Thawing Gives You a Leg Up
Thawing the legs before cooking is optional, but if you have the time, its worth it. The legs will steam faster and more evenly if thawed. Ideally, thaw them in a bowl overnight in the refrigerator, but if youre tight on time, know that you can place them in a colander under cool running water until no ice remains.
Steaming vs. Boiling
Theres no competition—hands down, steaming is the superior way to cook this epicurean delight.
Oven Baked Crab Legs | You’ll Never Make Crab Legs Any Other Way
FAQ
Which cooking method is best for crab?
Can I put my crab legs in the oven?
How should crab legs be cooked?
Is crab better steamed or boiled?