Imagine diving into a plate of succulent, golden-brown crabs infused with rich garlic butter, so aromatic and flavorful that your taste buds will dance with pure delight! This Oven Baked Garlic Crabs recipe is about to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or looking to impress your guests with a restaurant-quality dish, this recipe promises to be your new go-to seafood sensation that's surprisingly simple to prepare.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds crabs, cleaned
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your crabs will cook evenly and develop a nice flavor.
- Prepare the crabs by cleaning them thoroughly. If you haven't done so already, rinse them under cold water and remove any gills or impurities. Pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Place the cleaned crabs in a large baking dish or on a baking sheet. If desired, you can arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the crabs, ensuring that each crab is well-coated. Use a brush or spoon to spread the mixture if necessary.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in during the initial cooking phase. This will help steam the crabs and keep them tender.
- Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue to bake the crabs for an additional 10 minutes. This will allow the crabs to develop a golden-brown color and enhance the flavor.
- Once the crabs are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the oven-baked garlic crabs hot, garnished with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the crabs. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Crabs: Always select the freshest crabs possible for the most delicious results. Look for crabs with a clean, ocean-like smell and firm, intact shells.
- Pat Crabs Dry: Ensure your crabs are thoroughly dried before seasoning to help the garlic butter adhere better and create a more crispy exterior.
- Don't Overcrowd the Baking Dish: Arrange crabs in a single layer to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor distribution.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a more intense and vibrant flavor compared to pre-minced or jarred garlic.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to customize the spice blend by adding red pepper flakes or your favorite herbs for a personalized touch.
- Watch Cooking Time Carefully: Crabs can quickly become tough if overcooked, so keep a close eye on them during the final 10 minutes of baking.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy these garlic crabs hot right out of the oven for the best texture and flavor experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 150mg
