Garlic Butter King Crab Rolls

Rich, buttery, and bursting with sweet crab flavor, these Garlic Butter King Crab Rolls are the ultimate indulgence for seafood lovers. Succulent king crab meat is gently tossed in warm garlic butter and nestled into toasted rolls, making them perfect for a luxurious lunch, special occasion, or elevated weeknight dinner. Think lobster roll, but with the bold, briny sweetness of king crab and a garlicky twist you’ll crave again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Decadent Yet Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with just a few ingredients.
Full of Flavor – Sweet king crab meets rich garlic butter.
Perfectly Toasted Buns – Buttery, golden rolls hold everything together.
Impressive Presentation – Ideal for date night, parties, or upscale meals.
Customizable – Add herbs, lemon, or spice to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb cooked king crab meat (legs removed from shell, chopped if large)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
• 4 split-top hot dog buns or brioche rolls
• 2 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)

Optional Add-ins:

• Pinch of red pepper flakes (for heat)
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise (for a creamier filling)
• Shredded lettuce or arugula for crunch
• Extra lemon wedges for serving

Tools You’ll Need

• Small saucepan
• Skillet or griddle
• Tongs or spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Pastry brush (for buttering buns)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt ¼ cup butter.
Add minced garlic and sauté gently for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant (don’t let it brown).
Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), salt, and pepper.
Remove from heat and gently stir in the crab meat to coat. Keep warm.

Step 2: Toast the Buns
Spread 2 tbsp butter evenly on the outsides of the buns.
Toast in a skillet or on a griddle over medium heat until golden brown and crispy, about 1–2 minutes per side.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Carefully spoon warm garlic butter crab mixture into the toasted buns.
Top with chopped parsley or chives for freshness.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Pair with chips, a simple salad, or corn on the cob for a full meal.

Tips for Success
Use Fresh or Frozen Crab – If using frozen, thaw completely and drain well.
Don’t Overcook – Warm the crab gently to preserve its sweet, tender texture.
Split-Top Rolls Work Best – They hold the filling and toast beautifully.
Make It Fancy – Swap butter for compound garlic-herb butter for even more flavor.
Serve Immediately – These are best enjoyed hot and fresh.

Serving Suggestions
With Seasoned Fries – Think Old Bay or garlic-parmesan fries.
With a Light Salad – Arugula with lemon vinaigrette balances richness.
As Sliders – Use mini brioche buns for appetizers.
With Soup – Pairs wonderfully with creamy tomato or corn chowder.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate leftover crab mixture in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Store buns separately to maintain crispness.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Warm crab mixture in a saucepan over low heat.
Avoid the microwave to prevent overcooking the crab.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use imitation crab?
   Yes, but real king crab offers the best texture and flavor.
2. Can I make these ahead?
   You can prep the garlic butter and crab, but assemble just before serving.
3. Is it okay to use pre-cooked crab legs?
   Absolutely. Just remove the meat from the shell and warm gently.
4. What if I don’t have split-top buns?
   Use any soft roll—slice a V-shape into the top to create a pocket.
5. Is this recipe spicy?
   Not unless you add chili flakes or hot sauce—easy to adjust to taste.

Final Thoughts
These Garlic Butter King Crab Rolls are everything you want in a seafood sandwich—decadent, buttery, garlicky, and just the right amount of indulgent. Whether you’re treating yourself, entertaining guests, or recreating a seaside experience at home, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Grab the crab, toast the buns, and enjoy the ultimate seafood roll experience. Don’t forget to share your crab roll creations online!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American Coastal

Nutritional Information (Per Roll – serves 4):
Calories: 420 | Protein: 26g | Carbohydrates: 18g | Fat: 28g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 680mg

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