Deep Fried Crab Legs Recipe (With no Shell)

Deep Fried Crab Legs Recipe (With no Shell)

Are you looking for a delicious and easy recipe for deep-fried crab legs? Then you’ve come to the right place!

This recipe is made with no shell, so it’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the crab flavor without all the messy cleanup.

Plus, the crispy coating is irresistible.

Most people associate crab legs with seafood restaurants and buffets. But did you know that you can make them at home

This Deep Fried Crab Legs recipe is surprisingly easy and yields delicious results.

Plus, there’s no need to deal with messy crab shells! Whether you’re looking for a fun dish to share with friends or a unique meal to impress your family, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed.

Can I deep fry crab legs?

Raw crab legs
Raw crab legs

Crab legs are a delicious and elegant seafood option that can be cooked in various ways.

One popular method is to steam them, but if you’re looking for something with a little more flavor, you might want to try deep frying them.

This cooking method can result in tender, succulent crab legs that are perfect for a special occasion. 

When deep frying crab legs, it’s important to use a clean and well-maintained fryer.

The oil should be heated to the correct temperature, and the crab legs should dry before adding them to the fryer.

How long does it take to deep fry crab legs?

One of the great things about crab legs is that they can be cooked in various ways. One popular method is to deep fry them.

This gives the crab legs a crispy outer coating while maintaining the tender, juicy flavors of the meat inside.

So how long does it take to deep fry crab legs? The answer depends on a few factors, including the size and type of crab leg you use. Larger crab legs will take longer to cook than smaller ones.

Similarly, king crab legs will take longer to cook than Dungeness crab.

As a general rule of thumb, plan on cooking crab legs for 3-5 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

This should give you perfectly cooked crab legs that are crisp, moist, and tender on the inside.

What ingredients do I need to start?

Salt and pepper
Salt and pepper

To make this dish, you’ll need:

Crab legs: It’s important to use fresh crab legs for this recipe. You can usually find them in the seafood section of your grocery store.

Flour: This will be used to coat the crab legs before frying.

Old Bay seasoning: This is a blend of spices that are commonly used in seafood dishes. You can use a similar seasoning blend if you can’t find it.

Salt and pepper: These will be used to season the flour mixture.

Milk: This will be used to help the flour mixture stick to the crab legs.

Eggs: These will also be used to help the flour mixture stick to the crab legs.

Vegetable oil: This will be used for frying. You’ll need enough to fill your deep fryer or a large pot.

What else do I need?

In addition to the ingredients listed above, you’ll need:

  • A deep fryer or a large pot: If you don’t have a deep one, you can use a large one. Fill it with oil about 3 inches (7.6 cm) deep.
  • A slotted spoon: This will be used to remove the crab legs from the oil.
  • Paper towels: These will be used to drain the oil from the crab legs.
  • A dipping sauce: This is optional, but it’s a nice touch. You can use your favorite sauce or a simple mixture of equal parts vinegar and melted butter.
Deep Fried Crab Legs Recipe (With no Shell)

Deep Fried Crab Legs Recipe

Have you ever had crab legs so good that you didn't even bother with the shell? This deep-fried crab legs recipe is for those times when you just want the crab meat, none of the hassle. Let's start?
4 from 1 vote
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Course Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 4 Servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Fresh crab legs
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 1 cup Milk
  • 2 Eggs
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions
 

  • Preheat a deep fryer to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
  • Mix flour, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
  • In another bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs.
  • Dip each crab leg into the milk mixture, then coat it with the flour mixture.
  • Carefully place the crab legs into the hot oil, and fry for 4 to 5 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Remove from the oil with a slotted spoon, and drain on paper towels.
  • Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
  • Enjoy!
Keyword Deep Fried Crab Legs Easy Recipe

How do I know when the crab legs are done?

Fried crab legs are done when they turn bright red, and the meat is cooked. You’ll know the meat is cooked when it’s opaque and white all the way through, with no pink or red remaining. 

If you’re unsure whether the legs are done, use a meat thermometer to check; they should be at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part of the leg.

Once they’re cooked, remove them from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate before serving.

Can I add or replace some ingredients?

Yes, of course! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and flour mixtures. You could also try using a beer batter instead of the milk and egg mixture.

If you want some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. Have fun and enjoy!

Tips and tricks for a better recipe

Crab legs

If you’re using frozen crab legs, thaw them completely before cooking.

  • For an even coating, use a shallow dish for the milk mixture and a separate one for the flour mixture.
  • If the crab legs are too long to fit in your fryer, you can cut them in half.
  • Be careful not to overcrowd the fryer, or the crab legs will take longer to cook.
  • Cook the crab legs in batches if necessary.
  • You can also bake or broil the crab legs instead of frying them.
  • Serve with cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
  • Double-dip them in the milk and flour mixtures if you want extra crispy crab legs.
  • For a healthier option, baked or grilled crab legs are a great alternative to deep-fried.
  • If you’re short on time, you can steam the crab legs.
  • Be sure to remove all the meat from the crab legs before eating.
  • The cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the crab legs. Adjust accordingly.
  • You may need to adjust the amount of Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for a larger crowd. Enjoy!

Final Words

Whether you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to prepare fresh crab legs or just in the mood for something fried and crispy, this deep-fried crab legs recipe will hit the spot. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy! Thanks for reading, and happy cooking!

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Candy Seideman has been cooking for most of her life. In fact she is referred to as "The Chef" by most of her close family not only because she attended culinary school and was an actual chef, but also because she has a passion for cooking for friends and family.