How to Steam King Crab Legs Perfectly Every Time

King crab legs are a delicious delicacy enjoyed by seafood lovers across the world. Their sweet, succulent meat is packed with flavor and incredibly tender when cooked properly. While king crab can be prepared in various ways, steaming is one of the easiest and most popular cooking methods. When done right, steaming locks in moisture, brings out the natural sweetness of the crab, and results in tender, juicy meat.

In this article, we’ll walk through the simple process of steaming king crab legs so you can achieve crab perfection every time. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to a seafood feast, follow these tips for foolproof steamed crab legs.

What You’ll Need

• Raw, thawed king crab legs – make sure they are fully thawed if frozen
• Large pot with a steamer basket and lid
• Water
• Seasonings (optional) – Old Bay, lemon pepper, crab boil
• Melted butter for dipping
• Small bowl for melted butter
• Serving platter

Step 1: Set Up Your Steamer

Fill your large pot about 1/3 full with water Place a steamer basket in the bottom The legs should fit in a single layer and not be crowded. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.

Pro Tip: Add about a tablespoon of salt, crab boil, or Old Bay seasoning to the water for extra flavor if desired.

Step 2: Steam the Crab Legs

Gently place the crab legs in the steamer basket in a single layer being careful not to overcrowd them. Place the lid securely on the pot.

Steam the crab legs for 8-10 minutes. King crab legs usually take about 10 minutes per pound to cook.

Pro Tip: Resist the urge to open the lid and peak! Opening the pot will release steam and increase cook time.

Step 3: Check for Doneness

After 8-10 minutes, carefully remove the lid and check for doneness. The shell should turn bright red and the meat should opaque.

Use tongs to slightly separate a leg from the body. If the meat tears easily, separates from the shell, and looks opaque, it is fully cooked.

If the meat does not easily separate, replace the lid and steam for 2-3 more minutes until ready.

Step 4: Remove from Heat and Serve

Once the crab legs are cooked through, immediately remove them from the steamer basket to stop the cooking process. Let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Transfer the legs to a serving platter. Provide small dishes for dipping butter and tools for cracking the legs. Serve immediately while hot.

Pro Tip: Melt some butter and mix in lemon juice, garlic, or cajun seasoning for a delicious dipping sauce.

Helpful Tips for Steaming King Crab

• Make sure legs are completely thawed if cooking frozen crab. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Use a large pot so the legs have room to steam evenly. Do not crowd.
• Check for doneness early to avoid overcooking. Crab can go from perfect to rubbery quickly.
• Use a thermometer to check internal temperature. Meat should reach 140°F.
• Let crab rest before cracking and eating to allow juices to redistribute.
• Crack legs before serving or provide crab crackers and picks for easy eating.
• Refrigerate leftover crab meat and enjoy within 2-3 days.

Steaming is really the easiest and most foolproof way to prepare succulent king crab legs at home. The gentle heat locks in natural juices while still cooking the meat thoroughly. Follow these simple steps for tender, restaurant-quality crab legs. Just add some melted butter or spice it up with your favorite dipping sauce.

Steamed Alaskan king crab is a special treat and so simple to make yourself. So next time you’re looking for an impressive appetizer or entree that looks fancy but requires little effort, reach for some king crab legs and get steaming! Enjoy the sweet delicacy of perfect steamed crab from the comfort of your own kitchen.

King crab legs typically need to be steamed for 5-7 minutes if they are thawed, or 8-10 minutes if frozen.