I still remember the first time I brought home a live Dungeness crab—the kitchen smelled like salt and cedar from the crate, and my partner and I stood over the sink, nervously laughing as we figured out how to steam it without turning it into a lesson in catastrophe. Since then, a big Dungeness haul has become our go-to weekend ritual: one pot for steaming, a bowl of melted butter, crusty bread, and a handful of simple recipes that stretch that sweet, briny meat across weeks of easy dinners. 12+ Dungeness Crab Recipes for Fresh Coastal Flavor is exactly the kind of list I reach for when I want food that tastes like the coast without requiring a whole seafood market operation every night.
1. Classic Steamed Dungeness Crab with Garlic Butter
Why You’ll Love It:
This is pure, simple crab done well. Steaming preserves the natural sweetness of Dungeness meat, and warm garlic butter makes every bite feel indulgent but effortless. Cook it for a celebratory dinner, a relaxed Saturday night, or whenever you want hands-on family-style eating.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 2 live Dungeness crabs about 1 1/2 to 2 pounds each
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 lemon cut into wedges
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup water for steaming
How to Make It:
- Rinse and clean the crabs under cold water. Remove any debris and tuck the legs under the body for easier handling.
- Fill a large pot with 1 cup water and place a steamer rack inside. Bring to a rolling boil.
- Place the crabs on the rack, cover, and steam for 12 to 15 minutes until shells are bright orange and meat is opaque.
- Meanwhile, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and warm gently for 1 to 2 minutes, do not brown. Stir in parsley.
- Remove crabs to a board, serve with lemon wedges and the garlic butter for dipping.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Serving Idea: Serve with crusty sourdough bread and a simple green salad to mop up butter.
Meal Prep Tip: Leftover picked crab meat keeps 2 days in the fridge in an airtight container or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
2. Dungeness Crab Roll with Tarragon Mayo
Why You’ll Love It:
This is a West Coast spin on the classic roll, light and briny with herb-scented mayo. It comes together fast and feels special enough for company while being something you can whip up on a weeknight.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 pound picked Dungeness crab meat
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 celery stalk finely diced
- 4 soft split hot dog rolls or brioche rolls
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make It:
- In a bowl, gently toss crab meat with mayonnaise, tarragon, lemon juice, and diced celery. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Toast rolls until golden. Fill each roll with an equal portion of crab mixture.
- Serve immediately with a lemon wedge.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Flavor Boost: Fold in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a subtle tang.
Serving Idea: Pair with kettle chips and a crisp pickle for a casual meal.
3. Lemon Herb Crab Linguine
Why You’ll Love It:
Bright, lemony pasta is a perfect weeknight comfort that highlights crab rather than hiding it. It feels light but satisfying and comes together in about the time it takes the pasta to cook.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 12 ounces linguine
- 8 ounces picked Dungeness crab meat
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves thinly sliced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
- Cook linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- While pasta cooks, warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook 1 minutes until fragrant.
- Add crab meat and lemon zest, gently warm for 2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
- Toss pasta with the crab mixture and parsley. Season with salt and pepper and serve.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Swap This With That: Use spaghetti or bucatini if you prefer a different noodle shape.
Best Pairings: Light green salad and chilled Sauvignon Blanc.
4. Dungeness Crab Cakes with Remoulade
Why You’ll Love It:
Crisp golden cakes with tender crab inside are perfect for picky eaters and special dinners alike. They are great for using picked meat and can be pan-fried quickly for a satisfying appetizer or main.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 pound picked Dungeness crab meat
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs plus extra for coating
- 1 large egg beaten
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
- For remoulade 1/2 cup mayonnaise 2 tablespoons chopped pickles 1 teaspoon capers chopped 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon paprika
How to Make It:
- In a bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko, egg, mayonnaise, mustard, and parsley. Form into 8 small patties. Chill 15 minutes to firm up.
- Coat patties lightly with additional panko. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry crab cakes 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve with remoulade spooned on top or on the side.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Common Mistake to Avoid: Overmixing the crab mixture will make cakes dense; handle gently to keep flakes intact.
Serving Idea: Place on a bed of baby greens for a lighter meal.
5. Creamy Dungeness Crab Risotto
Why You’ll Love It:
Rich and luxurious, this risotto makes crab feel like a centerpiece. It is a cozy dinner when you want something comforting but still elegant.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
- 4 cups low sodium chicken or seafood stock warmed
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 8 ounces picked Dungeness crab meat
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot finely chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
- Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add shallot and cook 2 minutes until translucent. Add Arborio rice and toast 1 minutes.
- Stir in white wine and cook until mostly absorbed. Add warm stock one ladle at a time, stirring until each addition is absorbed, about 18 to 20 minutes.
- When rice is creamy and al dente, remove from heat and stir in remaining butter, Parmesan, and crab meat. Season and fold gently.
- Serve immediately garnished with chives.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Flavor Boost: Stir in a teaspoon of lemon zest for brightness.
Meal Prep Tip: Keep leftover risotto in the fridge up to 2 days; reheat with a splash of stock.
6. Crab and Corn Chowder with Dungeness
Why You’ll Love It:
Sweet corn and briny crab make a satisfying, one-pot chowder that’s perfect for cool evenings. It is hearty without being heavy and is easy to scale up for a crowd.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 2 medium potatoes peeled and diced
- 3 cups corn kernels fresh or frozen
- 4 cups chicken or seafood stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces picked Dungeness crab meat
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and celery and cook 5 minutes until soft.
- Add potatoes, corn, and stock. Bring to a simmer and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in cream and crab meat, warm through 2 to 3 minutes. Season and serve with toasted bread.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Best Pairings: Cornbread and a crisp green salad.
Budget-Friendly Tip: Use frozen corn and a mix of canned and fresh crab meat to cut cost.
7. Spicy Dungeness Crab Fried Rice
Why You’ll Love It:
This dish turns leftover rice and crab into a fast, flavorful weeknight dinner. It is versatile, quick, and a good way to get rid of fridge bits while keeping the crab as the star.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 3 cups cooked day old rice
- 8 ounces picked Dungeness crab meat
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 eggs lightly beaten
- 1 cup mixed peas and carrots frozen
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 scallions sliced
How to Make It:
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add eggs and scramble quickly. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining oil, then toss in rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir fry 2 minutes.
- Add peas and carrots and cook until warmed. Stir in crab meat, scrambled eggs, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Finish with scallions and serve hot.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Swap This With That: Swap soy sauce for tamari for gluten free.
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce for a gentle heat.
8. Dungeness Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Why You’ll Love It:
These bite sized stuffed mushrooms make elegant appetizers or a light main when paired with salad. The savory mushroom caps and sweet crab filling balance perfectly.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 16 large cremini or white mushrooms stems removed
- 1 cup picked Dungeness crab meat
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese softened
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 375 F. Brush mushroom caps with olive oil and place on a baking sheet.
- In a bowl combine crab, panko, cream cheese, garlic, and parsley. Season lightly.
- Spoon mixture into each cavity and bake 18 to 20 minutes until golden and heated through.
- Serve warm.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Serving Idea: Arrange on a platter with lemon wedges for passing at gatherings.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Overfilling mushrooms can cause sogginess; leave a little space at the top.
9. Dungeness Crab Mac and Cheese
Why You’ll Love It:
Comfort food elevated. Creamy, cheesy pasta with sweet crab folded in feels indulgent and family friendly. It is the kind of recipe that pleases both kids and grown ups.
Serving size: Serves 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni or small shells
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere
- 8 ounces picked Dungeness crab meat
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tablespoon melted butter
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 375 F. Cook pasta until just shy of al dente and drain.
- Make a roux by melting butter, whisking in flour, and cooking 1 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened. Stir in cheeses until melted.
- Toss pasta with cheese sauce and crab meat. Pour into a baking dish and top with panko mixture.
- Bake 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Flavor Boost: Stir in a pinch of smoked paprika for depth.
Meal Prep Tip: Assemble ahead and refrigerate; bake 30 minutes from chilled with foil on, then uncover to brown.
10. Chilled Dungeness Crab Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
Why You’ll Love It:
Light, fresh, and bright, this salad is perfect for sunny lunches or as a starter for a seafood dinner. Citrus lifts the natural crab flavor and keeps the dish refreshing.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 8 ounces picked Dungeness crab meat
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 orange segmented
- 1/2 small fennel thinly sliced
- For vinaigrette 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon honey salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Whisk vinaigrette ingredients together in a small bowl.
- Toss greens and fennel lightly with a bit of vinaigrette. Plate greens and top with crab and orange segments. Drizzle remaining vinaigrette and serve.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Best Pairings: Serve with chilled white wine and crusty bread.
Personal Note: I love this after a day at the beach when you want something cool and uncomplicated.
11. Grilled Dungeness Crab with Chili Lime Butter
Why You’ll Love It:
Grilling adds a smoky, charred note that pairs beautifully with a tangy chili lime butter. This is great for backyard dinners where you want something seasonal and showy.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 2 cooked Dungeness crabs halved
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
How to Make It:
- Preheat grill to medium high. Mix butter with chili powder, lime zest, and juice. Season.
- Brush crab halves with oil and place shell side down on the grill for 3 to 4 minutes until warmed and lightly charred. Flip and heat briefly.
- Brush with chili lime butter and serve with extra lime wedges.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Serving Idea: Serve with grilled corn and a simple slaw.
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the butter for extra smokiness.
12. Dungeness Crab Tacos with Cabbage Slaw
Why You’ll Love It:
Tacos are quick, portable, and let the crab shine with bright slaw and a touch of crema. They are perfect for casual dinners or entertaining where everyone assembles their own.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 8 small corn tortillas warmed
- 8 ounces picked Dungeness crab meat
- 2 cups shredded purple cabbage
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
- Toss cabbage with cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt to make the slaw.
- Warm tortillas briefly on a hot skillet. Fill each with crab meat, a scoop of slaw, and a drizzle of sour cream.
- Serve with lime wedges.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Swap This With That: Use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer wrap.
Flavor Boost: Add pickled red onion for extra tang.
13. Dungeness Crab Crostini with Lemon Ricotta
Why You’ll Love It:
These crostini are elegant and surprisingly quick. Creamy lemon ricotta under flaky crab is a perfect pre-dinner nibble or light lunch on a sunny afternoon.
Serving size: Serves 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 baguette sliced and toasted
- 8 ounces picked Dungeness crab meat
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- Zest and 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives
- Olive oil for brushing
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 400 F and toast baguette slices brushed with olive oil 6 to 8 minutes until golden.
- Mix ricotta with lemon zest, lemon juice, and chives. Season lightly.
- Spread ricotta on toasts and top with crab meat. Serve immediately.
Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):
Serving Idea: Serve as an appetizer with chilled prosecco or sparkling water.
Personal Note: These are my go to when I have leftover crab and need something quick and pretty.
FAQ
Can I use frozen Dungeness crab meat in these recipes
Yes. Thaw frozen crab meat in the refrigerator overnight and drain any excess liquid before using. Frozen crab works well in cooked dishes and cold salads once properly thawed.
How do I know when a live Dungeness crab is done steaming
A fully cooked Dungeness crab will have bright orange to red shells and opaque white meat. Steaming times vary by size, but 12 to 15 minutes is a reliable range for medium to large crabs.
What is the best way to pick crab meat without crushing it
Work over a shallow bowl, use a small fork or seafood pick, and gently pry meat from leg sections and body cavities. Keep larger lumps intact for recipes that showcase the crab.
Can I substitute other crab for Dungeness in these recipes
You can substitute other sweet white crab meat, but flavor and texture may vary. Dungeness is on the sweeter side so adjust seasoning accordingly.
Conclusion
Cooking with Dungeness crab feels like bringing a little bit of the coast into your kitchen. These recipes range from hands on steaming and shell cracking to quick tossed pastas and bright salads, so you can use fresh crab however your week unfolds. Start with a simple steamed crab to learn the flavor, then try one or two of the other recipes to stretch the meat across meals. Cooking seafood is as much about listening and tasting as it is about following a recipe, so trust your senses, keep the seasonings light, and enjoy the natural sweetness of Dungeness. Whether you are feeding family or cooking for one, these ideas should help you feel more confident and excited to experiment with fresh coastal flavor.
