Alaskan Red King crab is one of the most prized wild seafood experiences you can enjoy at home, and it is far easier to prepare than most people think. Because our premium king crab is harvested in Alaska waters, cooked shortly after being caught, and expertly split, the work is already done for you. In fact, king crab can be enjoyed chilled, at room temperature, or gently reheated. Since it is fully cooked, heating is optional and simply a matter of preference. The goal is not to cook it again, but to gently warm and serve it in a way that preserves its natural sweetness and tender texture.
At Premier Catch, our Alaskan Red King Crab legs are wild caught, fully cooked, butterfly split, and flash frozen at peak freshness. This makes them ideal for simple preparation and stress free entertaining, whether you are hosting a holiday meal or enjoying a special dinner at home.
Below is our recommended method for thawing, preparing, and serving king crab so it tastes just as it should.
About Alaskan Red King Crab
Alaskan Red King crab legs are pre cooked and flash frozen to preserve their wild caught flavor and texture. To prepare at home, simply rinse, thaw and serve chilled or gently reheated. Overheating is the most common mistake, so think of this process as warming, not cooking.
Step 1: Thaw
We recommend thawing Alaskan Red King crab legs slowly in the refrigerator.
- Rinse the ice glaze off of each leg gently with cold water
- Place the crab legs on a wire rack over a rimmed tray or cookie sheet
- Cover loosely with plastic wrap
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Allow to thaw for 12 to 24 hours, or overnight, in the refrigerator
Once fully thawed, king crab legs are best enjoyed right away, but they may be kept in the refrigerator for up to one or two days.
Step 2: Prepare
Because king crab is already cooked, the goal is to gently heat the meat until it is warm throughout without drying it out.
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Grill
Heat the grill to medium high heat. Lightly brush the crab legs with olive oil and place directly on the grill. Heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until the crab meat is warmed through. -
Steam
Fill a large pot about one third full with water and bring to a boil. Place the crab legs in a steamer basket over the boiling water and cover with a lid. Heat gently for a few minutes. You will notice a light crab aroma once the meat is warmed. -
Roast
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the crab legs in a shallow baking pan and add approximately one eighth inch of water to the bottom of the pan. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 4 to 6 minutes, until just heated.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
To serve, gently bend the crab legs back and forth at the middle joint to separate the sections. Then gently open the shell with your fingers.
Remove the crab meat carefully and serve with melted butter, lemon wedges, or simply on its own. High quality Alaskan Red King crab is naturally rich and sweet and does not need heavy sauces.
How Much King Crab to Serve Per Person
Because king crab is filling and nutrient dense, a little goes a long way.
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As a main course, plan about three quarters to one pound per person
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As part of a larger seafood spread, about half a pound per person is usually sufficient
Alaskan Red King crab is meant to feel special, not intimidating. With thoughtful sourcing, careful handling, and simple preparation, it becomes one of the easiest and most impressive meals you can serve at home. By gently thawing and reheating your crab, you allow the natural flavor of wild caught Alaskan seafood to shine through.
Whether you are celebrating a holiday, hosting guests, or enjoying a quiet night in, properly prepared king crab delivers an unforgettable dining experience with minimal effort.
