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31 Easy Seafood Dishes That Keep the Cooking Simple and the Eating Even Better

Seafood is already good on its own, so why overcomplicate it? These 31 easy recipes take the guesswork out of cooking, giving you meals that work whether it’s a busy weeknight or a slow Sunday. No hours spent chopping, no long ingredient lists, and definitely no fancy kitchen gadgets required. Just solid, reliable dishes that taste great without turning dinner into a project. Because the only thing better than seafood is seafood that’s ready fast.

Mediterranean Salmon on a white rectangular plate.
Mediterranean Salmon. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Seafood Chowder

Seafood chowder with a sprig of dill, a delicious stew recipe.
Seafood Chowder. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A good chowder keeps things simple, and this one does just that. Seafood Chowder brings together rich, comforting flavors in a way that doesn’t require extra effort. It’s the kind of meal that feels slow-cooked without the wait, making it perfect for an easy dinner. Whether served with something crusty or on its own, it’s packed with flavor without being fussy. Great for cold nights or when a regular soup just won’t cut it.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Chowder

Shrimp Scampi Pizza

A pizza with shrimp and cheese on top.
Shrimp Scampi Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When pizza meets seafood, good things happen, and Shrimp Scampi Pizza is proof. It takes the bold flavors of a classic shrimp dish and puts them on a crispy crust for something that’s both familiar and unexpected. This is the kind of recipe that works just as well for a casual dinner as it does for a weekend treat. It’s simple, packed with flavor, and doesn’t require a deep dive into complicated cooking. Basically, it’s pizza, but better.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Pizza

Crab Cake Benedict

Mediterranean cod on a rectangular platter.
Crab Cake Benedict. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Classic eggs Benedict is already good, but adding seafood makes it even better. Crab Cake Benedict swaps the usual base for something with more flavor, making each bite worth the extra effort. The combination of rich sauce, perfectly cooked eggs, and seafood creates a breakfast that feels special but doesn’t take forever to make. Whether for brunch or just because this is one of those meals that’s hard to forget. Who needs a fancy café when it’s this easy to make at home?
Get the Recipe: Crab Cake Benedict

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Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of olive garden creamy shrimp alfredo pasta served in a black bowl with a spoon.
Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

There’s a reason this dish is a favorite—it’s rich, satisfying, and easy to pull together. Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo keeps all the flavor of the restaurant version without the extra trip. A simple, creamy sauce pairs perfectly with tender shrimp and pasta for a meal that’s as filling as it is easy to make. No complicated steps or fancy techniques, just straightforward comfort food. It’s the kind of meal that makes any night feel like a cheat day.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Smoked Salmon Spread

Bowl of smoked salmon spread garnished with chopped chives next to crackers on a slate platter.
Smoked Salmon Spread. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A good spread should be easy to make and even easier to eat. Smoked Salmon Spread does both, bringing together rich, smoky flavors in a way that works for any occasion. Whether piled on crackers, toast, or something more creative, it’s a great way to add seafood to a snack or appetizer lineup. There’s no complicated prep involved, just a few simple steps for something that tastes like it took way longer to make. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Spread

Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Garlic Shrimp Scampi on a bed of rice in a black oval dish.
Garlic Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If there’s one seafood dish that never gets old, it’s Garlic Shrimp Scampi. It’s packed with bold flavors that don’t require a long list of ingredients or complicated prep. A quick toss in the pan is all it takes to bring everything together for a dish that works as a main meal or a side. It’s one of those go-to recipes that never disappoint, whether for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering. Fast, simple, and packed with flavor—what more could anyone want?
Get the Recipe: Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Cold Crab Dip

A bowl of cold crab dip with crackers and chives.
Cold Crab Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Some dips try too hard, but Cold Crab Dip keeps things simple in the best way. It’s smooth, full of flavor, and works with everything from crackers to veggies. Whether it’s for a gathering or just a snack, it comes together quickly without any unnecessary steps. No baking, no waiting—just mix, chill, and enjoy. A solid choice for when an easy appetizer is needed without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Cold Crab Dip

Smoked Shrimp

Two pans of smoked shrimp on a table.
Smoked Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If grilling is good, smoking is even better, and Smoked Shrimp proves it. Slow-cooked flavor comes through in every bite, without requiring complicated techniques. It’s the kind of dish that looks impressive but barely takes any effort, making it perfect for cookouts or casual meals. Whether served on its own, over a salad, or in tacos, it works just about anywhere. The hardest part is not eating them all at once.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Shrimp

Salmon Gnocchi Bake with Gremolata

Salmon Gnocchi Bake with Gremolata on a dish.
Salmon Gnocchi Bake with Gremolata. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Some bakes are heavy, but Salmon Gnocchi Bake with Gremolata keeps things balanced. It combines tender salmon with gnocchi for a meal that feels comforting without being over the top. A fresh gremolata adds a little brightness, making sure every bite has the right amount of flavor. It’s an easy dish that looks fancy enough for company but works just as well for a weeknight dinner. Big flavors, no hassle—that’s a win.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Gnocchi Bake with Gremolata

Cajun Pasta with Shrimp

Cajun Pasta with Shrimp on a black plate.
Cajun Pasta with Shrimp. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If bold and easy had a food combination, it would be Cajun Pasta with Shrimp. It’s packed with big flavors without needing complicated steps, making it an easy way to switch up pasta night. The shrimp cook quickly, blending with the creamy sauce for a dish that’s hard to stop eating. It’s the kind of meal that works just as well for a weeknight as it does for impressing guests. No stress, just good food.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Pasta with Shrimp

Salmon Pasta Salad

Salmon pasta salad in a black dish.
Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cold pasta salads can be forgettable, but Salmon Pasta Salad makes sure that’s not the case. It keeps things simple while packing in enough flavor to stand out on any table. Whether as a main dish or a side, it’s light enough for summer but satisfying enough for any time of year. It’s a great way to turn salmon into something refreshing without extra effort. Bonus: It tastes even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad

Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters

Two Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooter halves were placed on a slate board, next to slices of bread.
Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Some appetizers are forgettable, but Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters are definitely not. The combination of tangy, briny shrimp and smooth eggs creates a bite-sized dish that stands out. It’s a simple yet unexpected way to serve seafood that doesn’t require complicated prep. Perfect for gatherings or just switching things up, this dish delivers big flavor in a small package. If you’re tired of the same old appetizers, this one is worth a try.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters

Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

A slate platter with six crab stuffed mushrooms garnished with herbs.
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Stuffed mushrooms are always a win, but Crab Stuffed Mushrooms take things up a notch. The rich, seafood-packed filling balances perfectly with the bite-sized mushroom base. They come together quickly and work just as well for appetizers as they do for a light meal. No complicated steps, just a simple mix, fill, and bake situation that turns out perfect every time. Ideal for gatherings, snacks, or just an excuse to eat more seafood.
Get the Recipe: Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle

A white bowl of creamy shrimp & corn chowder on a white plate.
Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

A good chowder is thick, rich, and full of flavor, and Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle delivers. It’s the kind of dish that feels hearty without being too heavy, perfect for a cozy meal. The smoky chipotle adds a little something extra, balancing out the creaminess without overpowering it. Every spoonful is packed with just enough kick to keep things interesting. No bland bites here—just a solid, easy-to-make chowder that works anytime.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle

Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed red peppers on a white plate.
Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A good stuffed pepper should be hearty, simple, and full of flavor. Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers check all those boxes, bringing in rich seafood without making things complicated. Everything cooks together inside the pepper, keeping the process easy and the cleanup even easier. It’s a great way to turn seafood into a filling meal that works for lunch or dinner. When a dish does the work for you, it’s hard to say no.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp skewers on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

A few minutes on the grill is all it takes for Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp to be ready. Simple seasoning and high heat bring out the best in every bite, making it perfect for an easy meal. Whether served on skewers, over rice, or in wraps, this shrimp works in a lot of ways. It’s quick to cook, easy to clean up, and packed with flavor. Not much more you could ask for from a seafood dish.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets

Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets with lemon wedges on a black plate.
Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bite-sized and packed with flavor, Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets make a great snack or appetizer. Crisp, flaky layers hold a rich, creamy filling that balances perfectly in every bite. They’re easy to make and even easier to eat, making them perfect for entertaining or meal prep. Whether served warm or room temp, they hold up well without losing texture. Fancy enough for guests, simple enough for everyday.
Get the Recipe: Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets

Classic Shrimp Scampi

Two cast iron skillets contain shrimp scampi garnished with lemon wedges.
Classic Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Few seafood dishes are as reliable as Classic Shrimp Scampi. It’s quick, flavorful, and pairs well with just about anything. Whether served over pasta, rice, or on its own, it’s always a solid choice. Simple ingredients let the shrimp shine without unnecessary steps. When a dish is this easy and this good, it’s worth keeping on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shrimp Scampi

Salmon Gnocchi Bake

Salmon Gnocchi Bake on a casserole dish.
Salmon Gnocchi Bake. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A one-pan meal that keeps things simple, Salmon Gnocchi Bake is both hearty and effortless. The gnocchi turns soft and pillowy while soaking up all the rich flavors from the salmon. Everything bakes together in one dish, making both prep and cleanup a breeze. It’s filling without being too heavy, making it a great choice for busy nights. When a recipe is this easy and satisfying, there’s no reason not to make it often.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Gnocchi Bake

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A seafood salad should be fresh, light, and easy to throw together, and Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp delivers exactly that. The orzo gives it just enough substance to make it a full meal while keeping things refreshing. Whether served warm or cold, it holds up well and even tastes better after sitting for a while. It’s a great option for meal prep, quick lunches, or an easy side dish. Simple ingredients, big flavor, zero hassle.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Crab Spanakopita

Crab Spanakopita triangles on a cutting board.
Crab Spanakopita. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A classic dish with a seafood twist, Crab Spanakopita brings rich flavor inside crisp, flaky layers. It’s got the perfect balance of texture and taste without requiring extra effort. Whether as an appetizer or a light meal, it comes together easily and looks impressive. The seafood blends right in with familiar ingredients, making this a great way to change things up. One bite and it’s clear why this works so well.
Get the Recipe: Crab Spanakopita

Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

A plate of Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp served on a white rectangular dish.
Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

The takeout version is good, but Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp makes it just as easy to enjoy at home. It’s got that perfect mix of crispy, sweet, and savory without requiring a complicated process. The sauce brings everything together, coating each bite just right. Whether served over rice or eaten straight from the pan, this dish is a guaranteed hit. No delivery fee, no waiting—just great food.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp

Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

Top-down shot of Tuna Noodle Casserole on a dish with a small portion on a black plate.
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Some classics never go out of style, and Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole is one of them. It’s warm, filling, and ridiculously easy to make, making it perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tuna, pasta, and a creamy sauce just works, no matter how many times it’s made. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like home without requiring much effort. Sometimes, the simplest meals are the best ones.
Get the Recipe: Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

Close-up Southern Style Pickled Shrimp with lemon slices and dill on a jar.
Southern Style Pickled Shrimp. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Light, tangy, and full of flavor, Southern Style Pickled Shrimp is not your average seafood dish. It’s easy to make, stores well, and works great as an appetizer or snack. The flavors develop the longer it sits, making it even better the next day. Whether served at a gathering or straight from the fridge, it’s a great way to enjoy shrimp in a different way. Easy, refreshing, and ready when you are.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

Seafood Stuffed Salmon

Seafood Stuffed Salmon on a circular white plate.
Seafood Stuffed Salmon. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Salmon is great on its own, but Seafood Stuffed Salmon makes it even better. A flavorful seafood filling adds extra richness, making it feel a little fancy without the extra work. Everything bakes together in one dish, meaning cleanup is as easy as the cooking process. It’s a great way to turn salmon into a full meal without a complicated recipe. When seafood works this well together, there’s no reason to keep it separate.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Stuffed Salmon

Shrimp Stock

A glass jar filled with shrimp stock.
Shrimp Stock. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

A good seafood dish starts with a good base, and Shrimp Stock delivers exactly that. It’s a simple way to add deep, rich flavor to soups, risottos, or sauces. Making it is easy, and the payoff is worth it—better seafood dishes without extra work down the line. It stores well, so it’s ready whenever needed. If homemade stock makes everything better, this one is a must-have.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Stock

Baja Fish Tacos

Baja fish tacos on a white plate.
Baja Fish Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crispy seafood, fresh toppings, and a little bit of crunch—Baja Fish Tacos have everything a good taco needs. The balance of flavors and textures makes them a standout choice for an easy, satisfying meal. They come together quickly without much effort, making them perfect for taco night or a casual gathering. No need for complicated prep—just assemble, eat, and enjoy. When a recipe keeps things this simple and this good, it’s always worth making.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

Shrimp & Corn Chowder

Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle in a bowl.
Shrimp & Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A little sweet, a little smoky, and a whole lot of comfort—that’s what makes Shrimp & Corn Chowder a winner. It’s thick, rich, and perfect for when a regular soup just won’t cut it. The combination of shrimp and corn gives it just the right balance of flavors without making it too heavy. It’s an easy dish to throw together but tastes like it took all day. Perfect for cold nights, cozy meals, or just because.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp & Corn Chowder

Cullen Skink

Cullen Skink in two bowls with crusty bread in the background.
Cullen Skink. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Simple ingredients, deep flavor—Cullen Skink proves that sometimes less is more. This Scottish seafood soup is rich, creamy, and packed with smoky goodness in every spoonful. It’s easy to make and even easier to eat, perfect for when a warm, comforting meal is needed. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, it’s hearty without being overly complicated. A classic that deserves more attention.
Get the Recipe: Cullen Skink

Baked Shrimp and Avocado Tacos

A bowl of lobster chowder with bread on the side.
Baked Shrimp and Avocado Tacos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A little creamy, a little crispy—Baked Shrimp and Avocado Tacos find the perfect balance. The shrimp cook up fast, keeping things easy while delivering big flavor in every bite. Avocado adds just the right amount of richness without making things too heavy. They come together quickly with minimal effort, making them a solid choice for taco night. When a dish is this simple and satisfying, it’s an easy win.
Get the Recipe: Baked Shrimp and Avocado Tacos

Mediterranean Salmon

Mediterranean Salmon on a white rectangular plate.
Mediterranean Salmon. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A good salmon dish doesn’t need much, and Mediterranean Salmon proves it. Simple seasoning and fresh ingredients bring out the best in every bite without overcomplicating things. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, it comes together quickly and pairs well with just about anything. A great choice when a meal needs to be easy but still feel special. Straightforward, flavorful, and always a good idea.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon

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