These Garlic Butter King Crab Rolls are an indulgent and flavorful seafood treat! Made with buttery king crab meat seasoned with a smoky garlic herb butter, they are served on warm, toasted brioche buns with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Perfect as a quick and delicious dish, these rolls can be ready in under 20 minutes and are ideal for seafood lovers.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the King Crab Rolls:
- 2 pounds king crab legs
- 6 to 7 brioche bread rolls
- 1 large lemon
For the Garlic Butter:
- ½ cup butter
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 3 tbsp fresh chives, finely minced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
For the Garlic Butter:
- Place butter in a small saucepan and melt over medium heat. Alternatively, melt in the microwave.
- Remove from heat and stir in smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
For the Crab:
- If using precooked king crab, remove from the refrigerator and, wearing gloves, use kitchen shears to cut through the shell. Gently remove the crab meat and break it into bite-sized pieces.
- Preheat a frying pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of the prepared garlic butter.
- Add the crab meat to the pan and gently toss in the butter. Reheat for a few minutes until the crab is hot and steaming. Avoid overcooking, as it will turn rubbery.
- Sprinkle fresh chives, dill, parsley, and juice from half a lemon over the crab.
To Assemble:
- Toast the brioche buns under the broiler for about 3 minutes until warm.
- Spoon chunks of the crab meat into each bun.
- Drizzle with garlic butter and squeeze additional lemon juice on top.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrients
- Calories: 409 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 104 mg
- Sodium: 1843 mg
- Potassium: 429 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Vitamin A: 841 IU
- Vitamin C: 24 mg
- Calcium: 171 mg
- Iron: 3 mg
Enjoy these luxurious and easy-to-make king crab rolls!
Why King Crab is the Star
King crab is prized for its sweet, tender, and succulent meat, making it one of the most sought-after seafood delicacies. In this recipe, the natural flavors of the crab are enhanced by the smoky and garlicky notes of the butter, creating a harmonious balance. Key reasons why king crab shines in this dish include:
- Exceptional Flavor: The unique sweetness of king crab is a perfect match for the savory garlic butter.
- Texture: King crab meat is firm yet delicate, providing a satisfying bite.
- Versatility: While luxurious, it pairs well with simple ingredients like brioche and lemon, allowing its flavor to take center stage.
The Role of Garlic Herb Butter
The garlic herb butter in this recipe is more than a flavor enhancer; it’s the element that ties the dish together. This blend of melted butter, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs creates a sauce that:
- Adds Depth: The smoky paprika and garlic complement the sweetness of the crab, adding complexity.
- Brightens the Dish: Fresh herbs like chives, dill, and parsley provide a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Enhances Moisture: The butter keeps the crab meat moist and prevents it from drying out during reheating.
This versatile butter can also be used as a dip or drizzled over other seafood dishes, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
Brioche Buns: The Perfect Vessel
Brioche buns elevate these rolls by providing a soft, buttery base that complements the rich filling. Their slightly sweet flavor and tender texture enhance the overall eating experience. Toasting the buns under the broiler adds a slight crispiness, ensuring they hold up to the juicy crab filling and buttery sauce. The result is a perfect contrast of textures—crisp and soft, rich and light.
Health Benefits of Garlic Butter King Crab Rolls
While indulgent, these crab rolls offer a surprising number of health benefits:
- High-Quality Protein: With 33 grams of protein per serving, king crab is an excellent source of lean protein essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These healthy fats support heart health, brain function, and inflammation reduction.
- Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: The dish provides Vitamin A, Vitamin C, calcium, and iron, supporting immunity, bone health, and energy production.
- Low in Carbs: Despite the brioche base, the overall carbohydrate content remains moderate, making it suitable for balanced diets.
Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
To achieve the best results with your Garlic Butter King Crab Rolls, follow these tips:
- Use High-Quality Crab Meat: Opt for fresh or premium frozen king crab legs to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Handle the Crab Meat Gently: King crab is delicate, so avoid over-handling or overcooking it to maintain its tender texture.
- Toast the Brioche: A lightly toasted bun adds texture and prevents it from becoming soggy when filled with crab and butter.
- Season to Taste: While the garlic butter is flavorful, don’t be afraid to adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preferences.
- Serve Immediately: These rolls are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Prepare all components ahead of time and assemble just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Butter King Crab Rolls are versatile and can be served in various settings. Here are some serving ideas:
- Casual Gatherings: Arrange the rolls on a platter for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.
- Elegant Meals: Serve them alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a sophisticated lunch or dinner.
- Beachside Picnics: Pack the rolls in foil and enjoy them as a luxurious treat by the water.
- Holiday Feasts: Incorporate these rolls into a seafood-themed holiday spread for a festive twist.
Why These Rolls Stand Out
What sets Garlic Butter King Crab Rolls apart is their balance of simplicity and luxury. They’re easy enough to prepare on a busy weeknight yet impressive enough to serve at a special occasion. The combination of buttery crab, toasted brioche, and fresh lemon creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Moreover, the recipe’s adaptability allows you to customize the rolls to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a spicier butter blend, additional herbs, or a squeeze of lime instead of lemon, these rolls can be tailored to your liking.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter King Crab Rolls are a celebration of indulgence and simplicity. Combining the luxurious taste of king crab with the rich, flavorful garlic butter and the soft, toasted brioche, these rolls deliver a culinary experience that’s hard to beat. Perfect for seafood enthusiasts, they offer a quick and easy way to elevate any meal or occasion.