How to Cook Frozen Snow Crab Legs

Updated on October 16th, 2022

Crab legs are as delicious as they’re interesting. And we understand that sometimes, waiting overnight for the seafood to thaw before we can enjoy it can be a drag. So, you’ll be glad to hear that you don’t need to wait until the crab legs are at room temperature before cooking. Instead, you can toss the crab legs into the container and cook them while they’re still frozen.

Buying Frozen Snow Crab Legs

The best way to buy frozen snow crab legs is when they’re in a cluster. This form holds more meat compared to the singular legs. Also, note that though the crab legs are frozen, they’re usually pre-cooked beforehand. So, whichever method you’ll use to prepare them, remember that they’ll cook faster than raw snow crab legs.

Cooking Frozen Snow Crab Legs

Snow crab legs are so versatile; you can prepare them deliciously in tons of ways. And here are some of these methods;

On the Stovetop

Toss the frozen snow crab legs in a pot of water and add some salt and seasoning. Place the pot over the stove and let it boil, then add some lemon juice and rinds. Cover and let it cook for about three to five minutes, then remove the snow crab legs and serve with a side of butter dipping.

In the Oven

Arrange a sheet of heavy-duty foil over each other and place the frozen snow crab leg clusters at the center. Fold the four ends of the foil sheet to the center and place the envelope in the oven. Cook at 450F for 25 minutes, and when ready, carefully open the foil, so the steam doesn’t hurt you. Serve the snow crab legs as desired.

In a Steamer

Pour a cup of water into a large stockpot and add lemon, pepper, and seasoning. Then, place a steam basket or colander over it, ensuring the steam basket doesn’t touch the water at the bottom. Next, place the snow crab legs in the steam basket or colander and tightly cover the lid. Make sure the lid is sealed. Place the stockpot over the stove and bring it to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to medium-high to simmer and let it steam for about five to seven minutes. When ready, remove the crab with tongs and set it aside, so it slightly cools. Then, serve as desired.

In the Microwave

Roll up the frozen crab leg clusters in a few layers of paper towels, followed by plastic wraps. Toss the wrapped groups in the microwave and cook on HIGH for four minutes. When they’re ready, take the wraps out and carefully remove the plastic wraps and paper towels. Then, serve the snow crab legs as desired.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Surinda Smith (@iamsurinda)

Tips for Cooking Frozen Snow Crab Legs

• If you’re boiling the frozen snow crab legs, make sure not to overcook them. Boiling causes the meat to lose much flavor and firmness.
• Frozen snow crab legs mostly come pre-cooked and may already look orange in color. To ensure they’re fully cooked, check that the hue has deepened to a darker reddish hue at the end of the cooking time. Also, you’ll notice its fragrance as it steams.
• Use a crab cracker to break the shell and get to the meat when eating snow crab legs. If not, you may risk injury from the hard surface and sharp nails.
• Snow crab legs are best enjoyed with a dipping sauce. You can make some with melted butter, minced garlic, pepper, and salt.