The Complete Guide to Cooking Frozen, Fully Cooked Crab Legs

Frozen, fully cooked crab legs are a delicious and convenient seafood option perfect for busy home cooks With just a few simple preparation methods, these pre-cooked crustaceans can be on the table in no time This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about cooking frozen crab legs, from thawing to steaming, boiling, baking, grilling, and more.

Understanding Frozen Pre-Cooked Crab Legs

Frozen fully cooked crab legs have already been cooked once by the supplier before being frozen This pre-cooking process ensures safety and extends the shelf life The freezing process also locks in flavor and texture, All you need to do is gently reheat them until hot and tender, This makes frozen crab legs a quick and easy weeknight dinner option,

When buying frozen crab legs, opt for legs marked as “fully cooked” to avoid having to cook them through entirely. Also pay attention to the size, as larger crab legs or clusters may require a minute or two of extra cooking time. Finally, check if the legs are pre-seasoned. If not, have seasoning on hand to add flavor after cooking. With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to cook frozen crab to perfection.

Thawing Frozen Crab Legs

For the best results, frozen crab legs must be thawed before cooking. Thawing helps them heat evenly during the reheating process. Here are two easy methods:

Refrigerator Thaw: Place legs in a bowl and leave to thaw overnight in the fridge. The slow thaw helps retain moisture.

Cold Water Thaw: Put legs in a colander and run cold tap water over them for 15-20 minutes until thawed. Drain and pat dry.

Once thawed, pat the crab legs dry and they are ready for cooking.

Boiling Thawed Crab Legs

Boiling is a foolproof cooking method that yields tender, juicy crab meat in the legs. Follow these simple steps:

• Fill a large pot halfway with water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.

• Add 2 tbsp salt to the boiling water along with other seasonings like Old Bay.

• Gently add the thawed crab legs and boil for 4-5 minutes until hot through.

• Use tongs to transfer boiled crab legs to a serving plate.

• Serve immediately with melted butter, lemon wedges and dipping sauces.

Pro Tip: Add an extra minute or two of boiling time for larger clusters of legs. Check frequently for doneness.

Steaming Crab Legs

Steaming is a quick and healthy way to cook crab legs that seals in the natural flavors. Here’s how:

• Fill the bottom of a pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil.

• Place a steamer basket or colander inside above the water line.

• Arrange crab legs in a single layer in the basket, taking care not to overcrowd.

• Steam covered for 4-5 minutes until hot through.

• Remove basket and serve crab legs immediately with butter and lemon.

Pro Tip: Resist opening the lid as steam escapes and increases cook time.

Baking Frozen Crab Legs

Baking brings out the sweetness of the crab meat beautifully. Follow these easy steps:

• Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.

• Arrange crab legs on sheet and brush lightly with oil or melted butter.

• Bake legs for 10-12 minutes until hot through.

• Remove from oven, season and serve.

Pro Tip: Bake in a single layer to prevent overcrowding and uneven cooking.

Grilling Crab Legs

For next-level flavor, grilling crab legs is an amazing option. Here’s how:

• Thaw legs completely and brush with olive oil, butter or seasoning.

• Preheat grill to medium high. Oil grates to prevent sticking.

• Grill legs for 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear.

• Be careful not to overcook. Crab meat can dry out.

• Transfer to a platter and serve grilled legs immediately.

Pro Tip: Keep a close eye on the grill to prevent burning the delicate crab meat.

Microwaving Crab Legs

Microwaving is the quickest reheating method for thawed crab legs:

• Arrange crab legs in a single layer in a microwave-safe dish.

• Microwave on HIGH in 1 minute increments, flipping halfway through.

• Take care not to overcook. Microwave just until hot.

• Allow to rest 2 minutes before serving.

Pro Tip: Microwave cooking can dry out crab meat. Heat legs just until hot.

Handy Serving Suggestions

Jazz up your cooked frozen crab legs with these flavorful serving ideas:

• Lemon garlic butter for dipping
• Spicy cocktail sauce for extra zing
• Dijon and dill for a tangy twist
• Melted garlic herb butter sprinkled with breadcrumbs
• Classic melted butter with fresh parsley and lemon zest

Crab legs also pair well with fresh corn, coleslaw, roasted potatoes or rice pilaf. Dip the tender meat in butter or sauce for maximum enjoyment.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Store leftover crab legs up to 2 days in the fridge in an airtight container.

• Reheat leftovers in the microwave just until warmed through, 1-2 minutes.

• Steaming or boiling leftovers for 3-4 minutes also revives them deliciously.

• Avoid overheating to prevent dried out crab meat.

With this comprehensive guide, you can now cook frozen pre-cooked crab legs like a pro. Revel in the sweet, succulent meat bursting with flavor using these simple yet effective preparation methods. Surprise your family and guests with these indulgent seafood treats anytime.

Frozen precooked crab legs are easy to reheat and enjoy. The best methods involve steaming or boiling, but baking is also an option. For steaming, place the crab legs in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. When boiling, submerge the crab legs in boiling water for a shorter time, around 5-8 minutes.

Yes, it is generally recommended to thaw frozen crab legs before cooking or reheating them.

Baking is generally considered better than boiling for cooking crab legs, as it helps to retain more of the crab’s natural flavor and moisture.