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Frozen crab legs in air fryer with tender juicy crab meat, seasoned shells, and hot butter ready for dipping
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Frozen Crab Legs in Air Fryer - Fast, Juicy, and Butter-Ready

Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • Frozen crab legs (snow crab or king crab; 1–2 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (plus more for dipping)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, helps with browning)
  • 1 lemon (cut into wedges; zest optional)
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Old Bay or Cajun seasoning (optional, to taste)
  • Fresh parsley (optional, chopped for garnish)

Instructions

  • Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). A hot basket helps the shells warm quickly without overcooking the meat.
  • Rinse and pat dry the crab legs. Run them under cool water to remove any ice crystals. Dry them well so the seasoning sticks.
  • Make quick garlic butter. Melt butter in a small bowl. Stir in garlic, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a bit of zest if you like bright flavor.
  • Season the crab. Brush legs lightly with olive oil, then sprinkle with Old Bay or Cajun seasoning. Finish with a light brush of the garlic butter. Don’t overdo it—crab is delicate.
  • Arrange in the basket. Place legs in a single layer, bending them to fit. If needed, cook in batches. Keep things loose so air can circulate.
  • Air fry for 6–8 minutes. Flip halfway and brush with more butter. Snow crab usually needs 6–7 minutes total; thicker king crab can take 8–10. You’re reheating, not cooking from raw.
  • Check doneness. The shells should be hot and fragrant. The meat should be steaming and opaque, not dry. If needed, add 1–2 more minutes.
  • Serve immediately. Pile the legs on a platter. Add lemon wedges, extra melted butter, and parsley on top. Crack, dip, and enjoy.