For frozen crab legs (straight from the freezer), steam is your best friend. Boil a pot of water with salt and maybe some Old Bay. Place a steamer basket inside.
Add the frozen legs. Cover the pot. Set a timer for 5 to 7 minutes. That’s it.
If they’re thawed in the fridge overnight? Drop that to 3 to 4 minutes. You don’t want a hot outside and a cold inside.
The Oven Tango
No steamer? No problem. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wrap the legs in heavy-duty foil with a splash of water or white wine.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Check at 15. You want steamy, not dried out.
It’s like giving them a sauna. The foil traps steam and keeps them juicy. And yes, your kitchen will smell like a seaside shack.
The Microwave Madness
Okay, quick confession: you can microwave them. Place frozen legs on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel.
Microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes. But be careful—this is a dangerous game. Go too long, and you’ll have crab jerky.
It’s the “I’m starving and impatient” method. It works, but it’s not pretty.