Cooking seafood doesn’t have to be a guessing game. These 31 recipes take out the uncertainty and put big flavors front and center. No more staring at a fillet, wondering if it needs a marinade, a sauce, or a prayer. From quick weeknight meals to dishes that make it look like you know what you’re doing, there’s something for every skill level. Whether it’s pan-seared, baked, or grilled, these recipes keep things simple without sacrificing taste. The only hard part is deciding which one to try first.
Crab Cake Benedict
Breakfast just got a serious upgrade with Crab Cake Benedict. It keeps the best parts of the classic dish and adds a seafood twist that makes it even better. The crab cakes are rich and flavorful, pairing perfectly with the creamy sauce on top. It’s fancy enough for brunch but easy enough to make anytime. If breakfast-for-dinner is a thing, this should be at the top of the list.
Get the Recipe: Crab Cake Benedict
Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo
If endless pasta nights at a restaurant sound appealing, this Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo brings that same creamy, seafood-packed experience home. The sauce is thick, and rich, and coats every bite perfectly. The shrimp add just the right balance, making this a full meal instead of just another plate of pasta. No reservations are needed—just a serious craving for something satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that makes you wonder why takeout was ever an option.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo
Seafood Chowder
A good seafood chowder is all about rich flavors and a satisfying texture. This one brings together seafood and a creamy base that’s hearty without being too heavy. It’s the kind of meal that feels like comfort food but still impresses. Whether for a cozy night in or a meal that feeds a crowd, this dish delivers on both flavor and practicality. Nothing fussy, just a solid bowl of chowder done right.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Chowder
Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle
Sweet corn, smoky heat, and shrimp come together in Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle, a soup that’s anything but boring. The creamy base holds everything together, making it both hearty and smooth. Every spoonful brings layers of flavor that keep things interesting. It’s a great balance of sweet, smoky, and rich without going overboard. If chowder could be exciting, this would be the reason why.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are good. Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are better. The rich, savory filling brings seafood flavor front and center while keeping everything balanced. They’re easy to make but look like something straight from a restaurant. Perfect for appetizers, side dishes, or just snacking straight from the tray—these mushrooms don’t last long.
Get the Recipe: Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Garlic Shrimp Scampi
Some dishes never go out of style, and Garlic Shrimp Scampi is one of them. The shrimp soak up every bit of garlic and buttery goodness, making every bite count. Served with pasta or just on their own, they’re packed with flavor and ready in no time. No fancy techniques, no complicated ingredients—just a solid, go-to seafood dish. If there’s a faster way to get restaurant-quality shrimp at home, it’s hard to find.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Shrimp Scampi
Smoked Salmon Spread
A good spread should be smooth, flavorful, and impossible to stop eating, and Smoked Salmon Spread checks all the boxes. It’s packed with smoky richness without being overpowering. Perfect for spreading on crackers, bagels, or just about anything that needs a boost of flavor. Whether for a gathering or a personal snack session, this one disappears fast. Keeping extra on hand isn’t a bad idea.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Spread
Smoked Shrimp
Smoke and seafood make an unbeatable combination, and Smoked Shrimp proves it. The smoky flavor adds depth without overpowering, letting the shrimp shine. This dish works as a snack, appetizer, or the main event—it’s that versatile. Great for grilling season but just as good any time of year, it’s hard to go wrong here. Whether eaten straight or tossed into something else, these shrimp bring serious flavor.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Shrimp
Salmon Gnocchi Bake with Gremolata
A good pasta bake should be hearty, flavorful, and easy to pull together, and Salmon Gnocchi Bake with Gremolata delivers on all three. The gnocchi gives it that perfect texture, while the salmon adds a rich, satisfying bite. The gremolata brings a finishing touch that brightens everything up without overcomplicating things. It’s a great way to make a weeknight meal feel a little special. There’s comfort food, and then there’s this.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Gnocchi Bake with Gremolata
Cajun Pasta with Shrimp
Bold flavors meet creamy pasta in Cajun Pasta with Shrimp, a dish that knows how to bring the heat. The seasoning packs a punch without overwhelming, keeping the balance just right. Shrimp add a fresh, slightly sweet contrast that rounds everything out. It’s rich, filling, and anything but boring. Whether for a quick dinner or a meal that impresses, this one’s a keeper.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Pasta with Shrimp
Salmon Pasta Salad
Not all pasta salads are worth talking about, but Salmon Pasta Salad changes the game. It’s light but filling, packed with salmon, and has just the right amount of flavor. Great for meal prep, potlucks, or a no-fuss lunch, this dish holds up well in any situation. It doesn’t rely on heavy dressings or overcomplicated ingredients to work. Just simple, solid flavors that make salmon shine.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp
Fire up the grill because Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp is a meal that practically makes itself. The shrimp soak up every bit of flavor, giving them a bold, slightly charred finish. Whether served over a salad, with rice, or just straight off the skewer, they work in any situation. Simple, fresh, and quick—this is the kind of seafood dish that keeps grilling season going all year. No complicated steps, just great shrimp done right.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp
Crab Spanakopita
Take everything great about classic spanakopita and add seafood, and you get Crab Spanakopita. The flaky, golden layers of pastry hold a rich, flavorful filling that makes each bite better than the last. It works as an appetizer, a light meal, or something to impress guests. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it never disappoints. Good luck stopping at just one piece.
Get the Recipe: Crab Spanakopita
Shrimp Scampi Pizza
Shrimp on pizza might sound unexpected, but Shrimp Scampi Pizza makes perfect sense. The buttery, garlicky shrimp sit on top of a crisp crust, bringing bold flavors to every bite. It’s a combination that feels indulgent but still fresh. Whether for a weeknight treat or a weekend splurge, this pizza delivers something different. Forget pepperoni—this is the seafood upgrade worth trying.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Pizza
Cold Crab Dip
Some dips are just better than the rest, and Cold Crab Dip proves it. The creamy base lets the crab shine, making every scoop packed with flavor. It’s a go-to for parties but just as good as a personal snack. Served with crackers, veggies, or a spoon (no judgment), it never lasts long. Making a double batch is the best strategy.
Get the Recipe: Cold Crab Dip
Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters
Bite-sized but loaded with flavor, Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters are the ultimate small but mighty dish. The combination of briny shrimp and smooth eggs makes for a perfect balance. They work as an appetizer, a snack, or something to impress at brunch. Each bite is packed with just the right amount of seasoning and texture. A little different, a lot delicious.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters
Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed peppers are always a solid meal choice, but Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers take things up a notch. The filling is packed with seafood flavor, making these more than just another stuffed veggie. They’re hearty, and balanced, and make a full meal without any extra fuss. Perfect for meal prep or feeding a group, they hold up well and reheat like a dream. A little effort, a lot of reward.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Stuffed Bell Peppers
Shrimp Stock
A good seafood dish starts with a solid foundation, and Shrimp Stock is exactly that. It adds depth and richness to soups, stews, and sauces without overpowering other flavors. Instead of tossing shrimp shells, put them to work in a stock that enhances every dish. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in cooking. Once you try it, store-bought broth won’t be the same.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Stock
Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets
These Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets may be small, but they bring big flavor. The flaky phyllo adds a light crunch that pairs perfectly with the savory filling. Whether for an appetizer, a snack, or a fancy brunch addition, they fit the bill. They’re elegant without being fussy and impressive without too much effort. If bite-sized perfection is a thing, this might be it.
Get the Recipe: Salmon & Leek Phyllo Tartlets
Classic Shrimp Scampi
Simple, quick, and packed with flavor, Classic Shrimp Scampi is proof that less is more. The shrimp absorb every bit of the garlicky, buttery goodness, making each bite count. It works over pasta, with bread, or straight from the pan—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it. When a dish is this easy and satisfying, it’s one that should be in regular rotation. No need to overthink dinner when this is an option.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shrimp Scampi
Salmon Gnocchi Bake
Comfort food meets seafood in Salmon Gnocchi Bake, a dish that delivers on richness and texture. The gnocchi adds just the right bite, while the salmon brings depth and flavor. It’s the kind of meal that feels special but doesn’t require extra effort. Whether for a cozy night in or feeding a crowd, it holds up. No leftovers? That’s a good sign.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Gnocchi Bake
Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp
Sweet, crunchy, and just the right amount of indulgent, Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp brings a restaurant favorite home. The shrimp are coated in a sauce that balances richness with a little sweetness. It’s crispy, satisfying, and hits every craving at once. No need for takeout when this is just as good—if not better. Making extra is never a bad idea.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Honey Walnut Shrimp
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Nostalgic, filling, and always a crowd-pleaser, Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole has earned its spot as a comfort food staple. The creamy sauce, hearty pasta, and rich tuna come together in every bite. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a hungry table. Whether for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish delivers. Some things never go out of style, and this is one of them.
Get the Recipe: Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
Bright, briny, and packed with bold flavors, Southern Style Pickled Shrimp is anything but ordinary. The shrimp soak up every bit of seasoning, making them a standout dish for any occasion. Whether eaten straight, tossed into a salad, or served as an appetizer, they bring serious flavor. It’s a dish that gets better the longer it sits—if it lasts that long. Forget the usual shrimp cocktail; this is the better choice.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
Cullen Skink
Scotland’s seafood soup game is strong, and Cullen Skink is proof. This rich, smoky dish is all about bold flavors and a creamy, comforting texture. It’s simple but satisfying, making it a perfect choice for a cozy meal. Packed with fresh seafood and a thick broth, it’s filling without being too heavy. If you haven’t tried this classic, now’s the time.
Get the Recipe: Cullen Skink
Baked Shrimp and Avocado Tacos
Seafood tacos get a fresh twist with Baked Shrimp and Avocado Tacos. The shrimp bring bold flavor, while the avocado adds a smooth contrast that works in every bite. Everything comes together in a way that feels effortless but tastes like a lot more work. A perfect mix of crispy, creamy, and satisfying. Taco night just got better.
Get the Recipe: Baked Shrimp and Avocado Tacos
Seafood Stuffed Salmon
When salmon is the star, it needs a filling that can keep up, and Seafood Stuffed Salmon does just that. The combination of textures and flavors makes each bite better than the last. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but pairs well with just about anything. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight upgrade, this dish delivers. It looks impressive but keeps the process simple.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Stuffed Salmon
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Light but satisfying, Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is the kind of dish that works for any occasion. The shrimp add a fresh, flavorful bite, while the orzo ties everything together. It’s great for meal prep, potlucks, or a quick, no-fuss lunch. The Mediterranean flavors keep it balanced without being overpowering. No heavy sauces, just solid ingredients that work.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Baja Fish Tacos
Fresh, flavorful, and always a crowd favorite, Baja Fish Tacos are a must-try. The fish is light but packed with enough seasoning to keep things interesting. Topped with the right combination of textures, these tacos bring everything together in one bite. Perfect for a quick dinner or a casual get-together, they never disappoint. When taco night needs an upgrade, this is the way to go.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos
Shrimp & Corn Chowder
Some soups just hit the spot, and Shrimp & Corn Chowder is one of them. The sweetness of the corn pairs perfectly with the shrimp, creating a well-rounded flavor in every spoonful. It’s creamy without being too heavy, making it a great choice for any season. Whether served as a starter or a full meal, it always satisfies. Simple ingredients, big impact.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp & Corn Chowder
Mediterranean Salmon
Bold yet simple, Mediterranean Salmon brings big flavor with minimal effort. The Mediterranean ingredients add just the right balance, letting the salmon stand out. It’s light but filling, making it a great choice for any meal. Whether served on its own or with a side, it never disappoints. Easy to make, hard to forget.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon