How to Microwave Crab Legs Perfectly Every Time

Crab legs are a delicious treat that many seafood lovers adore. With sweet, tender meat tucked inside a hard shell, they offer a uniquely satisfying texture and flavor. However cooking crab legs properly can seem intimidating to home cooks. Do you have to boil a huge pot of water? Or maybe steam them for hours?

Luckily you can easily make tender restaurant-quality crab legs in your own microwave. Microwaving is actually an ideal cooking method that results in juicy, flavorful crab legs in just minutes.

In this article, you’ll learn:

• The benefits of microwaving vs. other cooking methods
• Step-by-step instructions for microwaving different types of crab legs
• Expert tips to maximize flavor and texture
• Common mistakes to avoid

Soon you’ll be enjoying succulent crab legs anytime without the fuss or hassle. Let’s get cracking!

Why Microwave Crab Legs?

Many people are hesitant to microwave crab legs, assuming that other cooking methods are superior. However, microwaving has some distinct advantages:

• Speed – Microwaving cooks crab legs in just 4-8 minutes. Much faster than boiling, steaming, or baking.

• Convenience – Only requires a microwave-safe dish. No pots, steamers, or extra equipment needed.

• Easy monitoring – You can check crab legs periodically and adjust cook time as needed. No guessing when they’ll be done.

• Space-saving – Microwaves are ideal for small kitchens. And you can cook a few legs rather than a large batch.

• Moisture retention – The moist heat of the microwave keeps crab meat tender and juicy.

• Great results – When done properly, microwaved crab has the same delicious taste and texture as other methods.

So don’t be afraid to use your microwave for crab legs! Follow the guidelines below for foolproof results every time.

Step-by-Step Microwaving Instructions

While the basic process is similar for all types, there are some differences in cook times for various crab leg varieties.

For All Varieties:

• Thaw frozen legs overnight in fridge or use microwave defrost function
• Choose a shallow microwave-safe dish, arrange legs in single layer
• Watch closely, microwaves cook very quickly
• Check for doneness early and often
• Let sit 2-3 minutes before eating

King Crab Legs:

• Cut legs in half crosswise to fit dish if needed
• Microwave 6-8 minutes per pound
• Add some water to create steam
• Turn legs halfway through

Snow Crab Legs:

• Microwave 4-5 minutes per pound
• Rotate dish halfway through
• Legs turn bright red-orange when done

Dungeness Crab Legs:

• Microwave 3-4 minutes per pound
• No need to add water
• Rearrange halfway through cooking

Microwaving Tips and Tricks

Follow these handy tips from cooking experts for getting the most out of microwaving crab legs:

• Season the water – Add crab boil seasoning, garlic, lemon, or herbs for extra flavor.

• Use a steamer rack – Place legs on a microwave-safe rack above water for ideal steaming.

• Wrap in damp paper towels – Helps steam legs instead of drying them out.

• Brush with butter – Drizzle with melted butter immediately after cooking for added richness.

• Elevate on plate – Place legs on an overturned bowl or mug to avoid boiling in released juices.

• Stir and rearrange – Shift legs around 2-3 minutes in for even exposure to microwave energy.

• Vent plastic wrap – If covering dish with plastic, leave a corner open to vent steam.

• Let stand before serving – Carryover cooking will finish reheating the insides perfectly.

Common Microwaving Mistakes

It’s easy to over or undercook crab legs in the microwave if you’re not careful. Here are some common errors to avoid:

• Microwaving frozen legs – Always thaw first!

• Overcrowding – Legs need room for steam to circulate.

• Not adding liquid – A small amount of water is key for steaming.

• Cooking too long – Start checking doneness early to prevent overcooking.

• Not resting afterward – Residual heat finishes cooking, so wait 2-3 minutes before digging in.

• Using low power – Microwaves need high power to properly steam and heat legs.

• Not turning or stirring – Rotate halfway for even exposure.

With the proper techniques, your microwave can deliver delicious crab leg results every time. Just follow the guidelines listed above and enjoy your tender, juicy seafood feast!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I microwave frozen crab legs?

Do not microwave frozen crab legs! Always thaw overnight in the fridge first. Microwaving from frozen will result in uneven cooking.

Should I add water when microwaving crab legs?

Yes, adding a small amount of water (1-2 tbsp per pound) creates steam to cook the crab legs. Brushing legs with butter or oil can also help keep them moist.

How do I know when crab legs are done in the microwave?

Check for doneness early, at around 4 minutes per pound. Meat should be opaque and flaky. If unsure, cut into a leg to check the center.

Why do my microwaved crab legs turn out rubbery?

This usually occurs from overcooking. Try cooking legs in shorter increments, checking frequently. Letting legs rest before eating also prevents rubbery meat.

Can I reheat leftover crab legs in the microwave?

Yes, you can reheat cooked crab legs in the microwave. Just go low and slow – do 30 second increments at 50% power until heated through. Add a splash of water to restore moisture.

Enjoy Your Microwaved Crab Feast!

With this handy guide, you can now skip the hassle of steaming and boiling and make fast, delicious crab legs in your microwave.

Be sure to experiment with different seasonings and dipping sauces. Lemon butter, garlic oil, and cajun spices all pair deliciously.

So grab your bib and crack those legs open! A seafood feast awaits. Just follow these simple tips for tender, mouthwatering crab legs anytime.