My Traeger Grilled Crab Legs are perfectly cooked and super-charged with wood-fired flavor in both the sauce and the crab itself. Once you try Traeger crab legs, you’ll never go back to plain steamers again.

Traeger Crab Legs

Crab legs have been one of my very favorite foods ever since I first tried them. As an adult, I’m pretty sure. Crab wasn’t huge up in Northern Minnesota, so my first experience probably happened at Red Lobster.

At first, I kind of thought they seemed like they were a lot of work for not great reward, but once I experienced a whole freshly cracked crab leg in some salty garlicky butter, it was over. 

Now I like all the crab. All of it. King crab. Snow crab. Dungeness crab. Stone crab. Gimme.

Traeger grilled crab legs are a flavorful, straightforward way to enjoy sweet, tender seafood with a smoky touch. Using a pellet grill adds depth to the crab’s natural flavor while ensuring they remain juicy. The butter sauce, enriched with garlic, white wine, and Old Bay seasoning, infuses the crab legs with bold, savory notes. This recipe only takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it ideal for gatherings or a weekend treat.

More Easy Traeger Recipes here!

Grilled Crab Legs shopping list

Wondering if you have to hit the store? Here’s the list of items you’ll need to make this recipe. For specific amounts, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

• Snow Crab Leg Clusters
• Butter
• Garlic
• Dry White Wine
• Old Bay Seasoning
• Fresh Parsley

Dungeness Crab Bisque

How to make Traeger Grilled Crab Legs

This is just the overview so you can see what you’re actually getting into here. When you are cooking, you’ll want to use the full recipe at the bottom of the page.

1. Thaw the Crab: Ensure the crab legs are completely thawed by leaving them in the fridge overnight or submerging them in cold water.
2. Preheat the Grill: Light your Traeger grill according to the manufacturer’s instructions and preheat it to 375°F.
3. Prepare the Pan: Place the thawed crab legs into a large foil grill pan or 9×13-inch cake pan.
4. Make the Sauce: Mix melted butter, garlic, white wine, Old Bay seasoning, and parsley, then pour it over the crab legs in the pan.
5. Grill and Baste: Place the pan on the grill and close the lid. Grill for 10 minutes, baste the legs, and cook for another 10-15 minutes until heated through. Serve with the sauce for dipping.

Traeger Grilled King Crab Legs

FAQ

Can you grill frozen crab legs?

Nope!

Make sure that you thaw them in the fridge or in a bowl of cold water before you grill the crab. You’ll get the best texture that way, and ensure that everything is cooked evenly.

DO NOT thaw in the microwave. Don’t thaw out on the counter. Always use safe food handling practices, especially when dealing with seafood. 

How should I store leftover crab legs?

Place any leftover crab legs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

What condiments go best with crab?

For hot crab, nothing beats melted clarified butter in my opinion. It is simple but the perfect compliment to the sweet crab meat.

For cold crab, cocktail sauce is a traditional pairing, as is a squeeze of lemon. 

Can I reheat crab legs without them drying out?

Yes, reheat them gently in the oven or on the grill at a low temperature. You can also steam them to maintain moisture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can thaw and prepare the crab legs ahead, but it’s best to grill them just before serving to keep the flavors fresh and the meat tender.

What are some substitutions for Old Bay seasoning?

If you don’t have Old Bay, use a combination of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and celery salt to achieve a similar flavor.

Serve with a fresh Caesar Salad!

Serve This With…

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the buttery sauce.
• Traeger Grilled Cheddar Bay Biscuits: For that “Red Lobster” experience.
• Grilled Asparagus: A light, flavorful vegetable side.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing contrast to the rich crab.
• Lemon Wedges: Brightens the seafood flavors with a citrus kick.

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Featured Reader Reviews

“10/10 fully recommend this. It was a huge hit!”

– Casey from Pinterest

This was AMAZING!!! my 10 yr old, myself, and 18 yr old (who doesn’t like crab) LOVED it! ❤️ Thank You for sharing!

– Kristin

More great crab recipes to love!

Traeger Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Blackstone Seattle Cheesesteak

Traeger Smoked Hot Crab Dip

Eat More Seafood!