15 Tasty Seafood Recipes For Thanksgiving Ideas

Looking for unique and delicious Seafood Recipes For Thanksgiving Ideas. These dishes are perfect for a coastal twist on the traditional holiday menu. While turkey usually takes center stage, incorporating seafood into your Thanksgiving feast offers a refreshing and flavorful alternative that’s sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re catering to pescatarians, looking for something lighter, or simply want to explore new culinary traditions, seafood provides a versatile and elegant option. From savory appetizers like crab-stuffed mushrooms to hearty main courses such as herb-crusted salmon or seafood paella, and even inventive sides like oyster cornbread stuffing, there are endless ways to bring ocean-inspired flavors to your holiday table. These seafood recipes celebrate the bounty of the sea while offering a memorable spin on the classic Thanksgiving spread.

Seafood Recipes For Thanksgiving Ideas

1. Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms

Description:
Crab-stuffed mushrooms are a savory and elegant appetizer that brings together the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the rich, sweet taste of crab meat. Perfect for Thanksgiving, these bite-sized treats are easy to prepare and always a crowd favorite. Baked until golden and bubbling, they make a delicious start to any holiday meal.

Ingredients:

• 20 large white or cremini mushrooms, stems removed

• 1 cup lump crab meat (picked over for shells)

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for topping)

• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)

Instructions (briefly summarized):

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Clean mushrooms and remove stems.

3. Mix all filling ingredients in a bowl.

4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the crab mixture.

5. Sprinkle with extra breadcrumbs and drizzle with olive oil or butter.

6. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 3 mushrooms):

• Calories: 150

• Protein: 9g

• Fat: 10g

• Carbohydrates: 6g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1g

• Sodium: 280mg

2. Shrimp Cocktail Platter

Description:
The Shrimp Cocktail Platter is a classic and refreshing appetizer that’s perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. Chilled jumbo shrimp are served with a tangy homemade cocktail sauce, offering a light and elegant start to your holiday meal. It’s quick to prepare, looks impressive, and adds a seafood-forward option that balances heavier dishes on the table.

Ingredients:
For the shrimp:

• 1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)

• 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning

• 1 lemon, sliced

• 1 bay leaf

For the cocktail sauce:

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• Dash of hot sauce (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions (briefly summarized):

1. Bring a pot of water to boil with Old Bay, lemon slices, and bay leaf.

2. Add shrimp and cook until pink (about 2–3 minutes). Drain and chill.

3. Mix all cocktail sauce ingredients in a bowl and chill.

4. Arrange shrimp on a platter with lemon wedges and a bowl of sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 5 shrimp + sauce):

• Calories: 120

• Protein: 18g

• Fat: 2g

• Carbohydrates: 8g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 5g

• Sodium: 530mg

3. Smoked Salmon Crostini

Description:
Smoked Salmon Crostini is a sophisticated yet simple appetizer that brings a burst of flavor and elegance to your Thanksgiving spread. Crispy toasted baguette slices are topped with creamy herbed cheese and delicate smoked salmon, then garnished with fresh dill and capers. It’s a visually stunning bite that’s perfect for entertaining guests with minimal prep.

Ingredients:

• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds

• 8 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced

• 6 oz cream cheese (softened)

• 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (plus more for garnish)

• 1 tablespoon chopped chives

• 2 tablespoons capers

• Olive oil (for brushing)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions (briefly summarized):

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast for 8–10 minutes until golden.

3. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, dill, chives, salt, and pepper.

4. Spread mixture on toasted bread slices.

5. Top with smoked salmon, capers, and a sprig of dill.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 2 crostini):

• Calories: 160

• Protein: 8g

• Fat: 10g

• Carbohydrates: 10g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1g

• Sodium: 360mg

4. Lobster Bisque Shooters

Description:
Lobster Bisque Shooters are a rich and luxurious appetizer that brings a touch of gourmet elegance to your Thanksgiving celebration. Served in small shooter glasses, this velvety soup is infused with the deep, buttery flavor of lobster, cream, and a hint of sherry. Perfect for entertaining, these mini portions allow guests to enjoy a decadent treat without filling up before the main course.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lobster meat (cooked and chopped)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped

• 1 carrot, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 3 cups seafood or chicken stock

• 1/2 cup dry sherry or white wine

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Chopped chives or lobster garnish (optional, for topping)

Instructions (briefly summarized):

1. In a pot, melt butter and sauté onion, celery, carrot, and garlic until soft.

2. Stir in tomato paste and flour; cook for 2–3 minutes.

3. Add stock and sherry, bring to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes.

4. Add lobster meat and cream; season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for another 10 minutes.

5. Blend until smooth (if desired), then strain for a silky texture.

6. Serve warm in shooter glasses and garnish with chives or a small lobster piece.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 1 shooter glass):

• Calories: 130

• Protein: 6g

• Fat: 9g

• Carbohydrates: 5g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 2g

• Sodium: 420mg

5. Herb-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Butter

Description:
Herb-Crusted Salmon with Lemon Butter is a flavorful and elegant main course that’s perfect for a seafood-centric Thanksgiving menu. The salmon is coated in a fragrant blend of fresh herbs and breadcrumbs, then baked to perfection and finished with a drizzle of zesty lemon butter sauce. It’s a lighter yet satisfying alternative to turkey that pairs beautifully with classic holiday sides.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the lemon butter sauce:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• Salt to taste

Instructions (briefly summarized):

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, herbs, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

3. Press mixture onto the top of each salmon fillet.

4. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until salmon is cooked through and crust is golden.

5. In a small pan, melt butter with lemon juice and zest.

6. Drizzle lemon butter over salmon just before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 380

• Protein: 32g

• Fat: 25g

• Carbohydrates: 6g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 0g

• Sodium: 270mg

6. Seafood Paella Thanksgiving-Style

Description:
Seafood Paella Thanksgiving-Style is a festive, one-pan dish that brings bold Spanish flavors to your holiday table with a seasonal twist. Loaded with a medley of shrimp, mussels, and scallops, this saffron-infused rice dish is accented with fall vegetables like roasted red peppers and butternut squash. It’s a vibrant and hearty main course that beautifully complements a non-traditional Thanksgiving spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups Arborio or short-grain rice

• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1/2 lb scallops

• 1/2 lb mussels, cleaned and debearded

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 cup roasted butternut squash cubes

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads (steeped in 2 tablespoons warm water)

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 4 cups seafood or chicken broth

• 1/2 cup white wine

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions (briefly summarized):

1. In a large paella pan or skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion, bell pepper, garlic, and roasted squash.

2. Stir in rice, saffron water, and paprika. Cook for 2 minutes.

3. Pour in broth and wine; bring to a simmer. Do not stir once liquid is added.

4. After 10 minutes, nestle in shrimp, scallops, and mussels. Cover and cook until seafood is done and mussels open (discard any that don’t).

5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 1.5 cups):

• Calories: 420

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 12g

• Carbohydrates: 48g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 3g

• Sodium: 480mg

7. Baked Stuffed Lobster

Description:
Baked Stuffed Lobster is an indulgent, show-stopping dish that makes a luxurious centerpiece for your Thanksgiving feast. The lobster is split and filled with a savory stuffing made from breadcrumbs, herbs, and chunks of tender lobster meat. Baked to golden perfection, this dish is rich, flavorful, and ideal for those seeking a seafood-forward holiday alternative.

Ingredients:

• 2 whole lobsters (1.5 lbs each), parboiled and halved

• 1 cup lobster meat (from claws/tail), chopped

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Lemon wedges and melted butter for serving

Instructions (briefly summarized):

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.

3. Add lobster meat, breadcrumbs, parsley, lemon juice, and seasoning. Stir to combine.

4. Place lobster halves on a baking sheet and stuff with breadcrumb mixture. Top with Parmesan if using.

5. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until golden brown and heated through.

6. Serve with lemon wedges and a side of melted butter.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – half stuffed lobster):

• Calories: 480

• Protein: 40g

• Fat: 26g

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1g

• Sodium: 720mg

8. Garlic Butter Shrimp and Scallops

Description:
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Scallops is a quick yet elegant seafood dish that brings bold, savory flavors to your Thanksgiving table. Tender shrimp and plump scallops are seared to perfection in a skillet, then tossed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce with a touch of lemon and parsley. It’s a crowd-pleasing entrée or side dish that’s both luxurious and simple to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1/2 lb sea scallops, patted dry

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat

Instructions (briefly summarized):

1. Season shrimp and scallops with salt and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear scallops for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and opaque. Set aside.

3. Add shrimp to the same skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until pink. Remove and set aside.

4. Reduce heat, add butter and garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

5. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and parsley. Return shrimp and scallops to the pan and toss in the sauce.

6. Serve hot, optionally topped with red pepper flakes and more parsley.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 4 oz shrimp/scallops combo):

• Calories: 310

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 20g

• Carbohydrates: 3g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 0g

• Sodium: 460mg

9. Crab Cakes with Spicy Aioli

Description:
Crab Cakes with Spicy Aioli are a flavorful, crispy seafood delight that makes for a perfect appetizer or main course for Thanksgiving. These crab cakes are made with fresh, succulent crab meat mixed with a blend of breadcrumbs, herbs, and seasonings, then fried to golden perfection. Served with a tangy, spicy aioli sauce, they offer the perfect balance of heat and richness that will impress your guests.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 egg, lightly beaten

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Spicy Aioli:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt to taste

Instructions (briefly summarized):

1. In a large bowl, gently combine crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Shape the mixture into 8 patties.

3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the crab cakes for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.

4. For the aioli, mix mayonnaise, sriracha, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and salt in a small bowl.

5. Serve the crab cakes with a generous drizzle of spicy aioli.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 2 crab cakes with aioli):

• Calories: 350

• Protein: 20g

• Fat: 25g

• Carbohydrates: 15g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 3g

• Sodium: 650mg

10. Oyster Cornbread Stuffing

Description:
Oyster Cornbread Stuffing combines two Southern favorites—cornbread and oysters—into one deliciously savory side dish. Perfect for Thanksgiving, this stuffing features the sweet brininess of oysters paired with the hearty, slightly sweet flavor of cornbread. With a medley of vegetables and aromatic herbs, it’s a wonderful alternative to traditional stuffing, bringing a coastal twist to your holiday meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 dozen oysters, drained and chopped

• 4 cups cornbread (crumbled)

• 1/2 cup butter

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (or seafood broth)

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra zest)

Instructions (briefly summarized):

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion, celery, and garlic until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, sautéed vegetables, parsley, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.

4. Add the chopped oysters and their juices to the mixture, stirring gently.

5. Pour in chicken broth and beaten egg, mixing until everything is evenly moistened.

6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

7. Garnish with fresh parsley and a drizzle of lemon juice before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 1/2 cup):

• Calories: 220

• Protein: 9g

• Fat: 12g

• Carbohydrates: 20g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 3g

• Sodium: 580mg

FAQ

1. Can I make seafood dishes ahead of time for Thanksgiving?

Yes, many seafood dishes can be prepared ahead of time! For example, crab cakes, stuffed lobster, and shrimp cocktails can be made and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to cook or serve them. Just be sure to follow storage guidelines to keep them fresh.

2. Are these seafood recipes suitable for pescatarians or gluten-free diets?

Absolutely! Many of the seafood recipes, like shrimp cocktail or herb-crusted salmon, are naturally pescatarian-friendly. For gluten-free options, simply swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs or ensure that your sauces are free of gluten.

3. How can I make sure the seafood stays fresh for Thanksgiving?

To keep your seafood fresh, buy it from a reliable source and store it properly. Fresh seafood should be refrigerated on ice and cooked within a couple of days. For longer storage, freeze seafood in airtight containers and thaw it in the fridge before use.

4. Can I substitute the seafood in these recipes with other types of seafood?

Yes! Many of these recipes can be adapted by substituting one type of seafood for another. For example, you can swap shrimp for scallops or crab for lobster, depending on your preferences or what’s available at your local market.