When it comes to indulging in a luxurious seafood treat, few options compare to the decadent delight that is king crab. With its tender flesh and rich flavor profile, this prized crustacean is the perfect centerpiece for any meal or special occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests with an elegant dinner party or simply satisfy your cravings with a quick and easy snack, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 mouthwatering king crab recipes.
From classic dishes like garlic butter king crab legs to innovative creations such as king crab sushi rolls and tacos with mango salsa, there’s something for everyone in this delectable lineup. So go ahead, get cracking (pun intended!), and discover the ultimate guide to cooking up a storm of succulent, savory, and downright divine king crab dishes.
Garlic Butter King Crab Legs
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines succulent king crab legs with the richness of garlic butter. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound king crab legs, thawed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the crab legs under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the crab legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the crab legs.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until heated through and lightly golden brown.
7. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, or melted butter.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
King Crab and Avocado Salad
Fresh king crab and creamy avocado combine in a refreshing salad perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb king crab legs, steamed and chilled
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chilled king crab legs, diced avocado, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the top of the salad and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time for crab legs)
Creamy King Crab Pasta
Savor the rich flavor of king crab paired with a creamy sauce, all wrapped up in tender pasta. This indulgent dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 lb king crab legs, flaked
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add flaked king crab legs and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta, king crab mixture, and chopped parsley (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
King Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Elevate your seafood game with these succulent king crab cakes, served with a tangy and refreshing lemon aioli for dipping. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump king crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon aioli (see below for recipe)
– Vegetable oil or mayonnaise for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Divide mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each portion into a round cake.
3. Dredge cakes in additional panko breadcrumbs to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil or mayonnaise in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry crab cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve immediately with lemon aioli for dipping.
Lemon Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Grilled King Crab with Herb Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this succulent grilled king crab recipe, perfectly complemented by a flavorful herb butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb king crab legs, thawed
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, parsley, lemon zest, and garlic powder.
3. Season king crab legs with salt and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the crab legs with herb butter.
5. Grill king crab for 8-10 minutes per side, or until lightly charred and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with additional herb butter for dipping.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
King Crab and Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder combines succulent king crab meat with sweet corn, potatoes, and a hint of spice for a truly satisfying soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb king crab legs, cooked and flaked
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups fish stock or chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add diced potatoes, corn kernels, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 5 minutes or until potatoes start to soften.
5. Add fish stock or chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in flaked king crab meat.
7. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
King Crab Sushi Rolls
Experience the taste of luxury with these succulent King Crab sushi rolls. Fresh crab meat and crunchy vegetables wrapped in a delicate sheet of nori seaweed make for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh king crab meat
– 1/2 cup short-grain Japanese rice (cooked)
– 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup avocado, sliced
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the king crab meat into small pieces and mix with a squeeze of soy sauce and a pinch of salt.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
4. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place a few pieces of king crab meat in the middle of the rice.
6. Add sliced cucumber and avocado on top of the crab.
7. Roll the nori sheet into a compact cylinder using a bamboo sushi mat or your hands.
8. Slice the roll into individual pieces and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including preparation)
King Crab Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the flavors of the Pacific Coast with this refreshing twist on traditional tacos. Fresh king crab, succulent mango, and crunchy cabbage come together for a taste sensation that’s both familiar and exotic.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb King crab legs, steamed and flaked
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
– Cabbage or shredded lettuce for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir gently.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning crab onto a warmed tortilla, topping with mango salsa, and finishing with cabbage or shredded lettuce.
5. Serve immediately and garnish with cilantro if desired.
Cook Time: 15 minutes
King Crab and Asparagus Quiche
A decadent brunch or dinner option that combines the rich flavors of king crab with the tender sweetness of asparagus, all wrapped up in a flaky quiche crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust
– 1 pound king crab meat, flaked
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a skillet, sauté asparagus and garlic until tender. Add king crab meat and cook for 1 minute. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese.
5. Arrange the asparagus mixture in the pie crust, followed by the egg mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown and set.
7. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
King Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
King Crab Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
This decadent appetizer combines the rich flavors of king crab with the earthy goodness of mushrooms, perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients:
- 12 large mushroom caps (such as cremini or portobello)
- 1/2 cup king crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat), flaked
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully remove stems from mushroom caps and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix together crab meat, butter, flour, cheddar cheese, and breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper.
- Spoon the crab mixture into the mushroom caps, dividing it evenly among the 12 caps.
- Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time:
Approximately 15-20 minutes
King Crab and Shrimp Gumbo
This hearty gumbo combines the rich flavors of king crab and succulent shrimp with a dark roux, creating a bold and aromatic dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump king crab, flaked
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups fish stock
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add floured king crab and shrimp; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink.
4. Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper; stir to combine.
5. Gradually add fish stock and diced tomatoes; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let gumbo cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
King Crab Benedict with Hollandaise Sauce
Elevate your brunch game with this luxurious twist on the classic Eggs Benedict, featuring succulent king crab and a rich Hollandaise sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 English muffins, toasted
– 1/2 pound king crab legs, steamed and flaked
– 4 poached eggs
– 1 cup hollandaise sauce (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Hollandaise Sauce:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Toast the English muffins and prepare the king crab.
2. Poach the eggs and set aside.
3. Assemble the Benedict by placing a toasted English muffin half on each plate, topping with steamed king crab, a poached egg, and spooning hollandaise sauce over the top.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
King Crab and Cheese Fondue
This rich and creamy fondue combines the sweetness of king crab with the savory flavors of cheese, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Emmental cheese
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 pound king crab legs, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine Gruyère, Emmental, wine, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir over medium heat until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the king crab pieces to the fondue and stir gently to combine.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the crab is heated through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
King Crab Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Savor the sweet flavor of succulent king crab paired with a medley of colorful vegetables in this quick and easy stir-fry recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb king crab legs, thawed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, trimmed
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper and zucchini; cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add snow peas and cook until tender-crisp, about 2 minutes.
5. Stir in king crab legs and soy sauce; cook until heated through, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
King Crab and Lobster Bisque
This luxurious bisque is a masterclass in seafood flavor, featuring the rich sweetness of king crab and lobster. With a simple yet elegant preparation process, this dish is sure to impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb King crab legs, frozen
– 2 whole lobsters (about 1 lb each), claws and bodies removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 1 cup fish stock or clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Thaw king crab legs and cook according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add white wine, fish stock, and cooked king crab; bring to a simmer.
5. Add lobster meat and heavy cream; stir well.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
King Crab Fried Rice
Experience the rich flavors of King Crab in this delectable fried rice dish, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup diced king crab meat
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Add the king crab meat, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together until well combined and heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
King Crab and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent recipe featuring succulent king crab, wilted spinach, and a rich ricotta filling. This indulgent dish is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup of king crab meat, flaked
– 1/2 teaspoon of lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of marinara sauce
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta cheese, spinach, king crab meat, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the crab-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the shells and top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
King Crab and Sweet Potato Hash
Elevate your brunch game with this decadent yet easy-to-make King Crab and Sweet Potato Hash. Fresh king crab and sweet potatoes come together to create a flavorful, satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1/2 pound fresh king crab meat (jumbo lump or claw)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes or until translucent.
4. Add garlic, crab meat, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until crab is heated through.
5. Fluff roasted sweet potatoes with a fork. Combine with crab mixture and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavor of king crab with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From classic dishes like Garlic Butter King Crab Legs and Creamy King Crab Pasta, to innovative creations like King Crab Tacos with Mango Salsa and King Crab Sushi Rolls, there’s something for every palate. Try your hand at making King Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli or King Crab Benedict with Hollandaise Sauce. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty stew, a refreshing salad, or a decadent dessert, these recipes will transport you to a culinary paradise.
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