Seafood gets a bad reputation for being pricey, but these 31 budget-friendly seafood recipes prove otherwise. Canned, frozen, and even fresh options can turn into meals that are satisfying without draining your wallet. From quick weeknight dishes to hearty comfort food, these recipes make the most of affordable ingredients without sacrificing flavor. No fancy techniques, no hard-to-find seafood—just smart cooking that keeps things simple. Because great Seafood shouldn’t require a loan application.
Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
Bright, tangy, and packed with flavor, Southern Style Pickled Shrimp is a great way to enjoy seafood in a completely different way. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for making ahead. The balance of acidity and spices keeps things interesting without overpowering the shrimp. A great option for entertaining or just when you want something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
Seafood Chowder
A hearty bowl of Seafood Chowder is proof that rich, comforting meals don’t have to cost a fortune. It’s packed with simple ingredients that come together in a way that feels like something special. The balance of flavors makes every spoonful satisfying without being overly heavy. Whether it’s a cold night or just a craving for something warm, this chowder delivers big flavor on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Chowder
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp
Fresh, simple, and packed with flavor, Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp proves that seafood doesn’t need a long list of ingredients to shine. Grilling brings out its natural sweetness, making it taste like something much fancier than it is. This dish works well on its own or as part of a bigger spread. A great way to get that restaurant-style grilled seafood experience at home.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp
Crab Cake Benedict
A solid brunch doesn’t have to mean an expensive bill, and Crab Cake Benedict is the proof. It takes a classic breakfast favorite and gives it a seafood twist that feels just the right amount of indulgent. The combination of flavors and textures works so well that you’d never guess it’s a budget-conscious dish. Perfect for a slow weekend morning or any day that needs a little upgrade.
Get the Recipe: Crab Cake Benedict
Garlic Shrimp Scampi
A restaurant classic made easy, Garlic Shrimp Scampi is a simple dish that delivers big flavor. The balance of garlic, shrimp, and a rich, buttery sauce makes it feel indulgent while staying budget-friendly. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough for when you want something nicer. Proof that seafood doesn’t have to be complicated to be impressive.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Shrimp Scampi
Smoked Salmon Spread
A little seafood goes a long way in Smoked Salmon Spread, making it a budget-friendly option for appetizers or snacks. It’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to pair with a variety of things. The smoky richness makes it taste more expensive than it actually is. Great for gatherings or just when you want a quick and satisfying bite.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Spread
Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo
Creamy, comforting, and surprisingly affordable, Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo brings restaurant flavors home without the markup. It’s got the same rich sauce and tender shrimp, but made with budget-friendly swaps. This dish proves that fancy-seeming meals don’t need complicated techniques. A perfect option for anyone who wants that classic Alfredo taste without the dine-out price tag.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo
Salmon Pasta Salad
Light, filling, and easy to make ahead, Salmon Pasta Salad is great for lunches, dinners, or meal prep. It’s got a good mix of flavors and textures, making it more exciting than the usual pasta salad. The best part? It’s an affordable way to add seafood to everyday meals. Great for warm days or just when you need a quick, budget-friendly option.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad
Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle
Sweet, smoky, and just the right amount of creamy, Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle is a smart way to make seafood feel like comfort food. The mix of flavors keeps it interesting without overcomplicating things. It’s filling without being heavy and works well for both casual meals and something a little special. A great way to turn simple ingredients into something satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
A little seafood goes a long way in Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, making this dish both affordable and impressive. The combination of flavors and textures makes each bite feel special without being complicated. Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a side dish that feels a little elevated. A great way to make the most of crab without needing a big budget.
Get the Recipe: Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Smoked Shrimp
Simple ingredients, bold flavor, and an easy process make Smoked Shrimp a go-to for seafood lovers. Smoking brings out a depth that makes shrimp taste like it took way more effort than it actually did. It’s versatile enough to serve on its own or mix into other dishes. A great way to make seafood feel a little special without spending extra.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Shrimp
Salmon Gnocchi Bake with Gremolata
Creamy, comforting, and just the right amount of hearty, Salmon Gnocchi Bake with Gremolata is the kind of meal that feels like it came from a high-end restaurant. The mix of textures keeps it interesting, and the flavors balance richness with freshness. It’s also surprisingly easy to put together, making it a smart option for busy nights. Great for those who want something filling without stretching the budget.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Gnocchi Bake with Gremolata
Cajun Pasta with Shrimp
Bold flavors meet budget-friendly ingredients in Cajun Pasta with Shrimp, a dish that turns a simple dinner into something special. The right mix of spices gives it a little kick without being overwhelming. It’s the kind of meal that feels satisfying without being complicated. Perfect for when you want something with personality but don’t want to spend all night cooking.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Pasta with Shrimp
Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets
Light, flaky, and packed with flavor, Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets bring a little elegance to the table without the high cost. The combination of salmon and leeks makes for a great balance of richness and freshness. These are perfect for appetizers, brunch, or when you want something that looks impressive but is actually simple. A smart way to make seafood stretch further without sacrificing taste.
Get the Recipe: Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets
Shrimp Stock
Simple but essential, Shrimp Stock is a great way to get every bit of flavor out of your seafood. It adds depth to soups, stews, and sauces without requiring extra cost. This is a smart trick for making the most of budget-friendly ingredients. A must-have for anyone who wants to stretch their seafood further.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Stock
Crab Spanakopita
A seafood twist on a classic dish, Crab Spanakopita is flaky, flavorful, and easy to serve as an appetizer or main course. The combination of crab with a rich, savory filling makes it feel like a treat without breaking the bank. It’s a great way to stretch seafood while still keeping things interesting. Perfect for those who want something a little unique but still simple to make.
Get the Recipe: Crab Spanakopita
Shrimp Scampi Pizza
The flavors of a seafood classic meet everyone’s favorite comfort food in Shrimp Scampi Pizza. It’s got the garlic, butter, and shrimp combination that makes scampi great, but served in a way that’s even more fun. This recipe proves that seafood can be both affordable and creative. A great way to shake up pizza night without adding extra cost.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Pizza
Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers
A little seafood goes a long way in Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers, making this a smart and budget-friendly meal. The mix of flavors and textures keeps it hearty without being too heavy. This dish is easy to make ahead and works well for both lunches and dinners. A great way to add seafood to the menu without extra cost.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers
Classic Shrimp Scampi
There’s a reason Classic Shrimp Scampi is a favorite—it’s fast, easy, and full of flavor. The balance of shrimp with a rich, buttery sauce makes every bite satisfying. It’s simple enough for a quick meal but feels just fancy enough to serve for a special occasion. A great example of how seafood can be both affordable and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shrimp Scampi
Salmon Gnocchi Bake
Rich, creamy, and comforting, Salmon Gnocchi Bake is the kind of dish that feels like a splurge but actually fits the budget. The combination of textures makes it hearty without being too heavy. It’s a great way to make a little seafood go a long way. Perfect for those who want a filling meal that’s easy to put together.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Gnocchi Bake
Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp
Sweet, crispy, and just the right amount of indulgent, Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp brings takeout flavors home for a fraction of the cost. The balance of textures makes it feel just like the restaurant version. This recipe proves that you don’t need to overspend to get your favorite dishes. A great way to enjoy a classic without the takeout price tag.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
A timeless favorite, Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole is proof that simple ingredients can come together to make something satisfying. It’s creamy, comforting, and a great way to make seafood stretch further. This dish is as budget-friendly as it gets while still delivering big on flavor. A go-to meal when you need something easy, filling, and affordable.
Get the Recipe: Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Light, refreshing, and packed with flavor, Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is a great way to keep seafood meals affordable and exciting. The combination of shrimp with simple Mediterranean ingredients makes it easy to throw together. It’s a solid choice for meal prep or a quick dinner. A smart way to make seafood work in everyday meals.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Cold Crab Dip
Smooth, flavorful, and easy to throw together, Cold Crab Dip is a great way to bring seafood to the table without much effort. The simplicity makes it perfect for gatherings or quick snacks. It’s creamy and satisfying while still feeling light. A smart option when you need something that looks impressive but doesn’t require much work.
Get the Recipe: Cold Crab Dip
Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters
Light, tangy, and full of flavor, Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters bring a unique twist to seafood appetizers. The mix of textures makes each bite interesting while keeping things simple. This dish is a great way to use shrimp in a fun, unexpected way. Perfect for gatherings or when you want something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters
Seafood Stuffed Salmon
A rich, satisfying dish that looks impressive but comes together easily, Seafood Stuffed Salmon is perfect for a special meal on a budget. The stuffing adds extra flavor without requiring pricey ingredients. It’s filling, flavorful, and a great way to make seafood feel like a restaurant-quality meal at home. Perfect for those who want something hearty without the high cost.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Stuffed Salmon
Baked Shrimp and Avocado Tacos
Creamy, crispy, and full of fresh flavors, Baked Shrimp and Avocado Tacos make seafood tacos feel a little more exciting. The balance of textures keeps every bite interesting. This is a great way to enjoy seafood without needing fancy ingredients. A perfect choice for a fun, affordable meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Shrimp and Avocado Tacos
Cullen Skink
A traditional dish with simple ingredients, Cullen Skink proves that seafood-based soups can be both affordable and incredibly satisfying. The balance of smoky and creamy flavors makes it feel rich without being overwhelming. It’s a great way to stretch a little seafood into something hearty. A solid option for anyone looking for a filling, budget-friendly meal.
Get the Recipe: Cullen Skink
Shrimp & Corn Chowder
A rich, comforting bowl of Shrimp & Corn Chowder proves that seafood can be both affordable and satisfying. The balance of sweetness and savory flavors makes it a solid go-to for cooler nights. It’s filling without feeling overly heavy, making it a great all-year-round option. A simple way to make seafood feel like comfort food without stretching the budget.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp & Corn Chowder
Baja Fish Tacos
Crispy, fresh, and full of bold flavors, Baja Fish Tacos are a great way to enjoy seafood without spending a fortune. The combination of textures keeps things exciting while still being easy to make. These tacos prove that seafood doesn’t have to be expensive to be delicious. Perfect for a casual meal that still feels special.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos
Greek Shrimp & Rice
A simple, flavorful meal, Greek Shrimp & Rice brings together classic Mediterranean ingredients in a way that’s easy and affordable. The combination of shrimp with rice makes it both filling and cost-effective. This dish is great for busy nights when you need something satisfying but quick. A smart way to keep seafood on the menu without stretching the budget.
Get the Recipe: Greek Shrimp & Rice