Grilled Washington Dungeness Crab Legs

Introduction

Dungeness crab is a beloved treasure of the Pacific Northwest, and grilling it brings out a bold, sweet flavor that defines Washington coastal cooking. Using the Arteflame grill turns this meal into a showstopping feast. The crab legs are brushed with rich garlic butter and kissed by flame, locking in flavor and moisture. With the Arteflame's unique 1,000°F center grill grate and wide flat griddle cooktop, you get perfectly grilled crab and accompanying sides all in one cook-up. No lids, no pans, just incredible flavor—pure and simple.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Washington Dungeness crab legs (pre-cooked, cleaned)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour a small amount of vegetable oil on 3 paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack dry firewood over the napkins.
4. Ignite the napkins and let the fire build. Wait about 20 minutes until the grill grate is over 1,000°F and the cooktop has fully heated.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter

1. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well to evenly incorporate all flavors. Set aside.

Step 3: Grill the Crab Legs

1. Place the crab legs shell-side down directly on the outer flat top griddle, near the hotter center zone.
2. Brush generously with the garlic butter mixture.
3. Grill for 6-8 minutes, rotating and basting occasionally, until the crab meat is heated through and slightly charred at the edges.

Step 4: Sear and Finish

1. Optional: For extra caramelization, flash sear the fleshy side of the crab legs for 30 seconds on the 1,000°F center grill grate. Use tongs and move carefully.
2. Remove the crab legs when internal temperature reaches 135°F (they’ll carry over to 150°F).

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer to a serving platter.
2. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges and remaining garlic butter on the side for dipping.

Tips

• The Arteflame flat top griddle evenly sears without burning—perfect for heating delicate shellfish like crab.
• Position the crab legs shell-side down to let the meat soak up the heat without direct flame contact.
• Add a handful of soaked wood chips to the fire for a kiss of smoky flavor.
• Don't forget, remove the crab legs when they’re 15°F below your target temp—they’ll finish cooking off the grill.
• Use real butter for richer flavor—it browns beautifully on the flat top griddle.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun Crab Legs: Add 1 tsp Cajun seasoning to the garlic butter for a bold Southern kick.
2. Thai-Style Crab Legs: Mix in 1 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tsp chili paste, and fresh cilantro for a Southeast Asian flavor.
3. Herb Butter Crab Legs: Blend in fresh dill, thyme, and rosemary for a fragrant herb finish.
4. Lemon Pepper Crab Legs: Swap paprika for extra cracked black pepper and double the lemon zest for a citrusy zing.
5. Honey Garlic Crab Legs: Stir in 1 tbsp honey for a sweet balance to the garlic and char.

Best pairings

• Grilled sourdough bread brushed with garlic butter
• Charred lemon asparagus on the outer griddle
• Grilled corn with smoked paprika butter
• Light white wines like Washington Riesling or Chardonnay
• Crispy roasted potatoes cooked directly on the Arteflame griddle

Conclusion

Grilling Dungeness crab legs on the Arteflame brings the best of Washington seafood flavors to your backyard. With rich garlic butter, fire-kissed textures, and no pans required, it's an unforgettable meal. The Arteflame makes it effortless—from firing up to cleanup—and the results are gourmet every time.