30 Seafood Recipes You Can Make in 20 Minutes or Less

Seafood doesn't have to be something you save for special occasions-it can be quick, fresh, and simple enough for any night of the week. I love meals that feel a little special without taking up my whole evening, and seafood is one of the easiest ways to do that. These recipes come together fast, so you can enjoy something flavorful and filling even when time isn't on your side.

Plate with baked salmon, garnished with herbs, served alongside steamed broccolini. — Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

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Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

This quick shrimp and broccoli stir-fry is perfect for when you need dinner on the table in a hurry. The shrimp cooks up fast and the broccoli adds freshness, making it a balanced option for weeknights. It works well for busy evenings when you don't want to spend more than 20 minutes in the kitchen. The dish is light yet filling, great for lunch or dinner. It's an easy go-to when you want something simple without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

A bowl of shrimp pasta with lemon and parsley. — Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This pasta dish brings together shrimp with garlic and butter for a comforting meal that's ready in no time. It's a smart choice for evenings when you want a warm, hearty dinner without waiting long. The shrimp cooks quickly, and the sauce coats the pasta beautifully, making it easy to put together. It feels special enough for company yet simple enough for weeknights. Perfect when you want something quick and homey with little effort.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

A plate of salmon on a white plate with lemon slices on it. — Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

A bright lemon butter sauce is a great way to dress up salmon when you're short on time. It's ready fast and makes any salmon dinner taste fresh and complete. This is the kind of recipe you can pull out when you don't have much energy but still want something good. It pairs easily with vegetables or rice, giving you a complete meal in minutes. Quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Sauce for Salmon

Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

A bowl of pasta with shrimp and tomatoes. — Shrimp and Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp and tomato pasta is a light yet filling option that works well for both lunch and dinner. It's quick to prepare, and the tomatoes bring a nice freshness to balance the shrimp. You can have this dish on the table in under 20 minutes, making it great for weekdays. It feels comforting but not heavy, which makes it versatile for different occasions. An easy option when you want pasta without spending all evening cooking.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Tomato Pasta

Shrimp Scampi

A plate with shrimp and bread on it. — Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp scampi is a classic meal that comes together quickly and works for any night of the week. The shrimp cooks fast, and the garlic and butter give it a comforting flavor that's ready in minutes. It's an easy choice when you want something that feels complete without much effort. This recipe makes a great option for busy weeknights when you're pressed for time. It's quick, hearty, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

Panko shrimp with dipping sauce. — Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These panko-coated shrimp cook up crisp and golden in minutes, making them a great choice for a fast seafood dinner or appetizer. They're simple to prepare and come together quickly without fuss. The crunch pairs perfectly with dipping sauces or a fresh salad on the side. Since they cook so fast, they're a good pick for nights when time is short. Easy, quick, and fun for sharing or enjoying on your own.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Fried Panko Shrimp

Air Fryer Tuna Melt

A grilled cheese tuna sandwich is cut in half on a plate. — Air Fryer Tuna Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

The air fryer makes this tuna melt extra quick, giving you a hot, cheesy meal in minutes. It's great for days when you need something filling but don't want to spend too much time cooking. This recipe is straightforward and works well for lunch or dinner. The crisp bread and warm tuna filling make it a comforting favorite. A fast, dependable option for when you're short on time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt

Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Three grilled shrimp atop cucumber slices garnished with herbs on a white plate with a red checkered napkin partially in view. — Shrimp Cucumber Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp cucumber bites are a light, refreshing option that's ready in just a few minutes. They're great for when you want a quick seafood snack or appetizer without much effort. The crisp cucumber balances the shrimp nicely, making it fresh and simple. This recipe works well for gatherings or even as a light meal. Fast, easy, and perfect for when you want something ready right away.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Cucumber Bites

Baked Lemon Butter Fish

Baking fish with lemon and butter is one of the fastest ways to get dinner on the table. The fish comes out tender and flavorful in minutes with very little hands-on work. This makes it perfect for weeknights when you don't want to fuss with complicated meals. It pairs well with vegetables or rice for a complete dinner. Quick to make and easy to enjoy, it's a smart choice for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Baked Lemon Butter Fish

Salmon Pasta Alfredo

Salmon pasta Alfredo is a creamy and filling meal that comes together quickly. The salmon cooks fast and blends nicely with the pasta and sauce. This dish is a good choice when you want a comforting dinner without waiting long. It feels hearty enough for a main meal yet is simple to pull off in under 20 minutes. Perfect for when you need something quick and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Alfredo

Seafood Pasta Salad

Seafood pasta salad is light, fresh, and ready in minutes, making it great for warm days or quick meals. It works as both a side or a main dish, depending on what you need. The seafood mixes easily with the pasta for a balanced option. Since it comes together quickly, it's handy for weeknights or make-ahead lunches. A simple recipe that saves time without losing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Grilled shrimp skewers are a quick way to get dinner or appetizers ready with little effort. Shrimp cook in minutes, so this is an easy go-to for busy nights. They're versatile and can be paired with vegetables, rice, or enjoyed on their own. Great for grilling indoors or out, they come together without hassle. A fast option that works for both family dinners and casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Crab Pasta

A close-up of spaghetti twirled on a fork with bits of crab meat and herbs, with more pasta and a dish in the blurred background. — Crab Pasta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crab pasta is a quick, hearty option that comes together fast enough for weeknights. The crab mixes smoothly with the pasta, making it both simple and filling. This dish is perfect when you want seafood but don't have much time. It feels rich while still being quick to prepare. Easy and dependable, it's a great meal for when you're in a hurry.
Get the Recipe: Crab Pasta

Crab Melt

A crab melt is a fast, warm meal that works well for lunch or dinner. The crab filling paired with melted cheese and crisp bread makes it hearty without being heavy. It's quick to prepare and doesn't require much effort. This recipe is great for days when you want something filling in under 20 minutes. A reliable option that's both fast and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Crab Melt

Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce

A plated piece of seasoned salmon with a portion removed on a fork, served alongside steamed broccolini. — Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

This salmon dish comes together quickly with a simple creamy dill sauce. The fish cooks fast, making it perfect for when you want dinner done in less than 20 minutes. The sauce adds freshness without complicating the meal. It works well with vegetables or rice on the side. Easy, quick, and always a good pick for weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Salmon with Creamy Dill Sauce

Panko Crusted Cod

Panko crusted cod is a crisp and quick option for a seafood dinner. The fish cooks up fast, making it perfect for busy nights. It pairs well with simple sides and doesn't take much prep. This recipe is great when you want something warm and crunchy without a long wait. A straightforward meal you can count on during the week.
Get the Recipe: Panko Crusted Cod

Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Shrimp macaroni salad is a quick and refreshing dish that works well for lunch or a light dinner. It comes together fast, with shrimp adding protein to the pasta. This recipe is perfect when you need something ready in minutes. It's great for make-ahead meals or enjoying right away. A simple and dependable option that doesn't take much time.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven

A hand holding a bacon-wrapped shrimp dipped in a small bowl of sauce, with a green leaf garnish on the side. — Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Bacon wrapped shrimp cook quickly in either the air fryer or oven, giving you a fast meal or appetizer. The shrimp stay tender while the bacon adds crispness, making them a fun choice for any occasion. This recipe is quick enough for busy evenings or last-minute gatherings. It's easy to make and always feels like a special treat. A fast and dependable seafood option.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer or Oven

Crab Rangoon Dip

A person dipping a piece of bread into a skillet of cheesy dip. — Crab Rangoon Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crab Rangoon dip is a creamy, seafood-based appetizer that comes together quickly. It's perfect for parties or even as a quick snack. The dip warms up fast, making it handy when you don't want to spend too long in the kitchen. Serve it with chips or bread for a complete bite. A quick recipe that's always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon Dip

Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Bacon wrapped salmon bites cook quickly and make a great option for snacks or dinner. They're simple to prepare and ready in under 20 minutes. The combination of salmon and bacon works well for both casual nights and gatherings. This recipe is a smart pick when you want seafood with minimal effort. Fast, flavorful, and perfect for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables

Baked salmon fillet with asparagus, zucchini, and bell peppers on a white plate, garnished with herbs. — Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Sheet pan salmon and vegetables is one of the easiest ways to get dinner ready in minutes. Everything cooks together quickly, saving time and cleanup. It's perfect for nights when you want a complete meal without extra steps. The salmon stays tender while the vegetables cook right alongside. A quick and balanced dinner option for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Salmon and Vegetables

Salmon Salad

A grilled salmon fillet served on a bed of fresh salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and olives on a white plate. — Salmon Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Salmon salad is quick to prepare and works well for lunch or a light dinner. It's fresh, filling, and can be put together in under 20 minutes. This recipe is great when you want something easy without much effort. It pairs well with bread, crackers, or on its own. A simple and fast choice for everyday meals.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Salad

Honey Walnut Shrimp

Plate of crispy chicken pieces with walnuts and green onions, served next to white rice on a patterned cloth with a fork. — Honey Walnut Shrimp. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Honey walnut shrimp is a sweet and savory dish that comes together quickly. The shrimp cook in minutes, making it perfect for weeknights. The walnuts add a nice crunch without adding extra work. This recipe is a good option when you want something different but still easy. Quick to prepare and enjoyable for dinner any night.
Get the Recipe: Honey Walnut Shrimp

Crab Fried Rice

A bowl of fried rice with vegetables and crab meat. — Crab Fried Rice. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crab fried rice is a quick meal that can be ready in minutes. The rice and crab come together easily for a filling dish. It's a good option for when you want seafood without spending too much time cooking. This recipe works for lunch or dinner, depending on your needs. Fast, easy, and always reliable.
Get the Recipe: Crab Fried Rice

Cajun Blackened Shrimp

Cajun blackened shrimp cook fast in a pan, making them perfect for busy nights. They're bold and flavorful without requiring much effort. This recipe is quick to prepare and pairs easily with rice or vegetables. It's a smart choice for when you want something fast and hearty. Simple and ready in minutes, it's a dependable meal option.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Blackened Shrimp

Prawn and Avocado Salad

Prawn and avocado salad is a fresh and quick option for lunch or dinner. It comes together in under 20 minutes with simple ingredients. The prawns add protein while the avocado gives it a creamy balance. This recipe is easy to make and doesn't require much prep. A light yet filling choice when you're pressed for time.
Get the Recipe: Prawn and Avocado Salad

Shrimp Scampi Fettuccine

Shrimp scampi fettuccine is a quick, comforting pasta dish for weeknights. The shrimp cook in minutes and blend well with the pasta. It's a great option when you want something hearty without taking too long. This recipe is simple enough for everyday meals but still feels special. Fast, easy, and perfect for dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Fettuccine

Honey-Soy Glazed Cod

Honey-soy glazed cod cooks quickly and makes a balanced seafood dinner. The glaze adds flavor without requiring much work. This recipe is ready in under 20 minutes, which is perfect for weeknights. It pairs easily with vegetables or rice for a full meal. Quick, simple, and a great choice when you're short on time.
Get the Recipe: Honey-Soy Glazed Cod

Salmon Meunière

Salmon Meunière is a fast, pan-cooked option that feels special yet takes little effort. The salmon cooks quickly and comes together in under 20 minutes. It's perfect for nights when you want something nice without being stuck in the kitchen. This recipe pairs well with potatoes, rice, or vegetables. A quick, simple option for weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Meunière

Pan Seared Shrimp

Pan seared shrimp is one of the fastest ways to get a meal on the table. The shrimp cook in minutes, making it great for busy nights. This recipe works as a main dish or as part of salads and bowls. It's easy, quick, and reliable for everyday meals. A go-to seafood option when you don't have much time.
Get the Recipe: Pan Seared Shrimp