Boiling Crab Recipe recipe photo - Boiling Crab Recipe by Jan

Boiling Crab Recipe

Published: September 19, 2025 Prep Time: About 30 minutes Cook Time: About 20 minutes Total Time: About 50 minutes Serves: 4 Difficulty: Medium Category: Main Course Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds live crabs
  • 1/4 cup Old Bay seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup hot sauce
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. Fill large pot with water and bring to a boil
  2. Add Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper
  3. Add paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder
  4. Stir in thyme and oregano
  5. Add crabs and cook for 15-20 minutes
  6. Remove crabs and drain
  7. In small saucepan, melt butter
  8. Add hot sauce and mix well
  9. Serve crabs with butter sauce and lemon wedges

Special Notes

This spicy boiled crab recipe is perfect for seafood lovers. The combination of Old Bay and spices creates authentic flavor. The key is to not overcook the crabs to keep them tender. This dish is perfect for parties and can be made ahead of time. For extra heat, you can add more cayenne pepper. The crabs should be served hot for the best taste.