Cooking Guide: Snow Crab Leg Splits

Each package contains 12 oz of fully cooked Snow Crab Leg Splits. The legs are cut from the merus—the thick, meaty center section of the snow crab leg—and split lengthwise to expose the meat while leaving the shell intact along the back.

The product arrives frozen. Thaw the Snow Crab Leg Splits completely before grilling, baking, or broiling. Because the crab is already fully cooked, you only need to warm it through. Avoid overheating it, which can make the meat dry or rubbery.

Thawing Instructions

Line a large plate or tray with paper towels.

Remove the frozen Snow Crab Leg Splits from their packaging.

Arrange them on the prepared plate in a single layer, with space between the pieces.

Cover loosely and refrigerate for 6–8 hours, or until completely thawed.

Once thawed, gently pat away any excess moisture with a clean paper towel.

Note: Thawing time may vary depending on your refrigerator temperature and the number of packages being prepared.

⚠️ Food Safety Reminder: Never thaw crab at room temperature. Keep it refrigerated until you are ready to warm and serve it.

Heating Instructions

Choose one of the following methods. For every method, arrange the crab with the shell side down and the exposed meat facing up. The crab is already fully cooked, so do not flip it or cook it longer than necessary.

Grilling

Preheat the grill to medium heat, approximately 375–400°F.

Lightly oil the grill grates to help prevent sticking.

Arrange the thawed Snow Crab Leg Splits directly on the grill with the shell side down and exposed meat facing up.

Close the grill and heat for 4–6 minutes, or until the meat is warm throughout.

Transfer the Snow Crab Leg Splits to a serving platter and immediately brush the exposed meat with melted butter.

Baking

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Arrange the thawed Snow Crab Leg Splits in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet or shallow baking dish, shell side down.

Cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil to help retain moisture.

Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until heated through.

Remove the foil, transfer the Snow Crab Leg Splits to a serving platter, and brush the exposed meat with melted butter.

Broiling

Position an oven rack approximately 5–6 inches below the broiler and preheat the broiler on high.

Arrange the thawed Snow Crab Leg Splits on a foil-lined, broiler-safe baking sheet with the shell side down.

Broil for 3–5 minutes, watching carefully, until the meat is warm and the edges are just beginning to turn golden.

Remove the crab from the broiler and immediately brush the exposed meat with melted butter.

Butter Preparation

Melt Prime Butter—or your preferred unsalted butter—in a small saucepan over low heat.

If desired, stir in minced garlic, fresh herbs, lemon zest, or Prime Blend Seasoning.

Once the crab has finished warming, generously brush the seasoned butter over the exposed meat.

Serve additional melted butter on the side for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with fresh lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, and warm melted butter.

Pair with roasted potatoes, corn, grilled vegetables, or a crisp green salad.

Add the crab to a surf-and-turf plate alongside steak.

Arrange it as the centerpiece of a seafood platter.

Serve over rice, pasta, or risotto for a complete meal.

Important Notes

Do Not Overcook: The snow crab is already fully cooked. You are only warming it through.

Keep the Meat Facing Up: Positioning the shell side down protects the delicate meat from direct heat.

Do Not Flip: The split design allows the crab to heat evenly without placing the exposed meat directly against the grill or pan.

Watch Closely When Broiling: Broilers vary in intensity, and the exposed meat can dry out quickly.

Brush With Butter After Heating: Finishing with butter keeps the flavor fresh and prevents the butter from burning during cooking.

Serve Immediately: Snow crab has its best texture and flavor when served as soon as it is warm.

Storage and Consumption

Keep thawed crab refrigerated at 40°F or below and consume it within 2–3 days. Do not refreeze the product after it has been completely thawed.

Store any warmed leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the meat.

Product Information

Product: Snow Crab Leg Splits (Merus)
Package Size: 12 oz
Product State: Fully cooked and frozen
Flavor: Clean, rich, and sweet
Texture: Tender and meaty with a substantial bite
Ingredients: Snow crab and salt
Allergen: Contains crustacean shellfish
Origin: Product of Canada and Norway
Harvest: Wild-caught in the North Atlantic

Snow Crab Leg Splits provide the presentation and experience of a traditional crab leg without requiring you to crack through the entire shell. Each leg is split lengthwise, allowing you to easily season the exposed meat and remove it from the remaining shell.

Please review our Seafood Safety Guidelines.