50+ Thanksgiving Seafood Dinner Recipes to Make Memorable Moment

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thanksgiving seafood dinner recipes

Thanksgiving is a time for family gatherings, festive feasts, and cherished traditions. While turkey often takes center stage, seafood can be a delightful and flavorful addition to your Thanksgiving dinner table.

Incorporating seafood into your holiday menu not only diversifies your meal options but also caters to various tastes and dietary preferences. From succulent shrimp and tender scallops to rich, flaky fish and flavorful shellfish, the possibilities are endless.

In this blog, we’ve curated over 50 Thanksgiving seafood dinner recipes that are sure to impress your guests.

Whether you’re looking for elegant main courses, delightful appetizers, or side dishes bursting with flavor, you’ll find a variety of options that celebrate the bounty of the sea.

So, let’s dive in and explore these delectable seafood recipes that will make your Thanksgiving unforgettable!

50+ Thanksgiving Seafood Dinner Recipes to Make Memorable Moment

As you plan your Thanksgiving menu, consider adding a few seafood dishes to create a more diverse and exciting feast.

With our collection of 50+ Thanksgiving seafood dinner recipes, you have the perfect opportunity to impress your guests with the rich flavors and unique dishes that seafood offers.

From elegant main courses that showcase the best of fresh seafood to delightful appetizers and sides that complement your holiday spread, these recipes will surely create lasting memories around the dinner table.

So, don your apron, gather your loved ones, and get ready to indulge in a Thanksgiving celebration that not only honors tradition but also introduces new and exciting flavors!

Lobster Mac and Cheese

Lobster Mac and Cheese combines the luxurious taste of lobster with the comforting, creamy goodness of mac and cheese. This dish elevates a classic comfort food to a gourmet level, making it perfect for a special Thanksgiving seafood dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1 lb cooked lobster meat, chopped
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbling.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until melted and smooth.
  6. Add the cooked macaroni and lobster meat to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle evenly over the top.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  9. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Lobster Mac and Cheese is a decadent dish that brings a touch of elegance to your Thanksgiving table. The rich, creamy cheese sauce pairs perfectly with the tender, sweet lobster, creating a memorable dish that your guests will love.

Baked Salmon with Dill and Lemon

Baked Salmon with Dill and Lemon is a fresh and flavorful dish that adds a touch of sophistication to your Thanksgiving feast. This recipe is simple to prepare yet impresses with its bright, zesty flavors and tender, flaky salmon.

Ingredients:

  • 4 salmon fillets
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 lemons, thinly sliced
  • 1 bunch fresh dill
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup white wine (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Arrange the lemon slices and fresh dill over the salmon fillets.
  4. If using, pour the white wine around the salmon for added moisture and flavor.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon slices and dill if desired.

Baked Salmon with Dill and Lemon is a light and refreshing dish that complements the rich flavors typically found in a Thanksgiving dinner. The bright citrus and aromatic dill enhance the natural taste of the salmon, making it a delightful addition to your holiday menu.

Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Mushrooms

Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are an elegant appetizer or side dish that brings the flavors of the sea to your Thanksgiving dinner. These bite-sized delights are filled with a savory seafood mixture, making them a perfect start to your holiday meal.

Ingredients:

  • 24 large white mushrooms, stems removed
  • 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, finely chopped
  • 1/2 lb crab meat, picked over for shells
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
  3. Stir in the chopped shrimp and crab meat, cooking for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and mix in the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Stuff each mushroom cap with the seafood mixture, pressing gently to fill.
  6. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, until the tops are golden and the mushrooms are tender.
  7. Serve warm, garnished with lemon wedges.

Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Mushrooms are a sophisticated and delicious addition to your Thanksgiving spread. These flavorful bites are sure to impress your guests and add a touch of gourmet flair to your holiday festivities.

Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter

Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter is an exquisite dish that brings a luxurious touch to your Thanksgiving seafood dinner. The scallops are perfectly seared to achieve a golden crust, while the garlic butter adds a rich, flavorful finish.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large sea scallops
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the scallops to the skillet, making sure they are not touching. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust.
  4. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Stir in the fresh parsley and return the scallops to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter over them.
  7. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter is a simple yet elegant dish that will impress your Thanksgiving guests. The tender, flavorful scallops paired with the rich garlic butter make for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Crab-Stuffed Flounder

Crab-Stuffed Flounder is a delectable dish that combines the delicate flavor of flounder with a savory crab filling. This recipe is perfect for a special Thanksgiving seafood dinner, offering a sophisticated and flavorful option.

Ingredients:

  • 4 flounder fillets
  • 1/2 lb crab meat, picked over for shells
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine the crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Lay the flounder fillets flat and spoon an equal amount of the crab mixture onto each fillet.
  4. Roll up the fillets and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
  5. Brush the tops with melted butter.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the fish is cooked through and the stuffing is golden.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges.

Crab-Stuffed Flounder is a refined and flavorful dish that will elevate your Thanksgiving dinner. The combination of tender flounder and rich crab stuffing is sure to delight your guests and add a gourmet touch to your holiday menu.

Mussels in White Wine Sauce

Mussels in White Wine Sauce is a classic seafood dish that is both elegant and easy to prepare. The mussels are steamed in a flavorful broth of white wine, garlic, and herbs, creating a delicious and aromatic dish perfect for Thanksgiving.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 shallot, finely chopped
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Crusty bread for serving

Instructions:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and shallot, cooking until softened.
  2. Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer.
  3. Add the mussels to the pot and cover. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the mussels have opened.
  4. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the butter and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Discard any mussels that have not opened.
  6. Serve the mussels in bowls with the broth and crusty bread on the side.

Mussels in White Wine Sauce is a delightful and aromatic dish that brings a taste of the sea to your Thanksgiving table. The savory broth and tender mussels make for a memorable dining experience that your guests will savor.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce are a vibrant and flavorful addition to your Thanksgiving seafood dinner. The shrimp are marinated to perfection and grilled until juicy, then topped with a zesty chimichurri sauce that adds brightness and depth to every bite.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes)

For the Chimichurri Sauce:

  • 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. While the shrimp is marinating, prepare the chimichurri sauce by mixing parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers.
  4. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
  5. Remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle with chimichurri sauce before serving.

Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce offer a burst of flavor that is perfect for a Thanksgiving seafood dinner. The combination of succulent shrimp and fresh, herby sauce creates an exciting dish that will tantalize your guests’ taste buds and leave them wanting more.

Seafood Paella

Seafood Paella is a vibrant and hearty dish that celebrates the flavors of the ocean while being visually stunning. This Spanish-inspired recipe combines a variety of seafood with saffron-infused rice, making it an impressive centerpiece for your Thanksgiving dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups short-grain rice (such as Bomba or Arborio)
  • 4 cups seafood stock
  • 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 lb mussels, cleaned
  • 1/2 lb clams, cleaned
  • 1/2 lb squid, cleaned and cut into rings
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp saffron threads
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
  2. Stir in the red bell pepper, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the rice, smoked paprika, and saffron, stirring to coat the rice in the oil.
  4. Pour in the seafood stock and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Arrange the shrimp, mussels, clams, and squid on top of the rice. Sprinkle the peas over the seafood.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked and the rice has absorbed the liquid.
  7. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before serving with lemon wedges.

Seafood Paella is a festive and flavorful dish that will wow your guests this Thanksgiving. Its combination of diverse seafood and fragrant saffron rice creates a hearty, satisfying meal that embodies the essence of holiday celebration.

Clam Chowder with Bacon

Clam Chowder with Bacon is a classic comfort dish that warms the heart and brings a taste of the coast to your Thanksgiving table. This creamy chowder is rich and hearty, featuring tender clams, crispy bacon, and a blend of vegetables that create a satisfying and indulgent bowl of goodness.

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 cups clam juice
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 (6.5 oz) cans chopped clams, drained
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
  2. Add the onion, garlic, and celery to the pot, sautéing until soft.
  3. Stir in the diced potatoes, clam juice, and dried thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
  4. Add the heavy cream and chopped clams to the pot. Stir to combine and heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon and fresh parsley.

Clam Chowder with Bacon is a rich and indulgent dish that makes a perfect starter or main course for your Thanksgiving seafood dinner. The creamy texture combined with the smoky flavor of bacon creates a comforting bowl that captures the essence of home, making it a delightful addition to your holiday feast.

Lobster Tail with Garlic Herb Butter

Lobster Tail with Garlic Herb Butter is a decadent dish that elevates any Thanksgiving dinner. The lobster tails are broiled to perfection, and the garlic herb butter adds a luxurious touch that enhances the sweet, succulent flavor of the lobster.

Ingredients:

  • 4 lobster tails
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven broiler.
  2. Using kitchen shears, cut the top shell of each lobster tail down the center, stopping just before the tail fin. Gently pull the shell apart to expose the meat.
  3. In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  4. Brush the lobster meat generously with the garlic herb butter mixture.
  5. Place the lobster tails on a baking sheet and broil for 8-10 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and slightly browned.
  6. Serve hot with remaining garlic herb butter drizzled on top and lemon wedges on the side.

Lobster Tail with Garlic Herb Butter is an impressive and indulgent addition to your Thanksgiving feast. The tender, flavorful lobster meat paired with the aromatic garlic herb butter creates a gourmet experience that will leave your guests feeling pampered and satisfied.

Baked Stuffed Shrimp

Baked Stuffed Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines plump shrimp with a savory breadcrumb stuffing. This dish offers a comforting blend of flavors, making it a wonderful choice for a Thanksgiving seafood dinner that is both satisfying and elegant.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Lay the shrimp flat and fill each with a spoonful of the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it gently to adhere.
  4. Place the stuffed shrimp in a baking dish and drizzle with any remaining melted butter.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the stuffing is golden brown.
  6. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Baked Stuffed Shrimp is a comforting yet sophisticated dish that is perfect for your Thanksgiving seafood spread. The combination of tender shrimp and flavorful stuffing creates a hearty and satisfying option that will impress your guests and add warmth to your holiday table.

Honey-Ginger Glazed Salmon

Honey-Ginger Glazed Salmon is a flavorful and healthy seafood option for your Thanksgiving dinner. The sweet and tangy glaze infuses the salmon with delicious flavors while keeping it moist and tender, making it a fantastic centerpiece for your meal.

Ingredients:

  • 4 salmon fillets
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Sliced green onions for garnish
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place the salmon fillets in a baking dish and pour the honey-ginger glaze over the top.
  4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve with lemon wedges.

Honey-Ginger Glazed Salmon is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor and healthiness to your Thanksgiving table. The balance of sweetness and tanginess enhances the rich taste of the salmon, creating a dish that is both satisfying and light, making it a wonderful addition to your holiday feast.

Coconut Curry Shrimp

Coconut Curry Shrimp is a vibrant and aromatic dish that brings the flavors of the tropics to your Thanksgiving dinner. The creamy coconut milk pairs beautifully with the spicy curry, creating a comforting and satisfying seafood dish that is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp red curry paste
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup snap peas
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Cooked jasmine rice for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
  2. Stir in the red curry paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the coconut milk, fish sauce, and brown sugar, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Add the shrimp, bell pepper, and snap peas. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
  5. Stir in the lime juice and remove from heat.
  6. Serve the coconut curry shrimp over jasmine rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Coconut Curry Shrimp is an exotic and flavorful dish that adds a touch of adventure to your Thanksgiving seafood dinner. The combination of creamy coconut milk and spicy curry creates a delightful contrast that is both comforting and refreshing, making it a unique addition to your holiday spread.

Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce

Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce are a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the delicate flavor of fresh scallops. The scallops are perfectly seared to achieve a golden crust, and the lemon butter sauce adds a touch of brightness, making it a luxurious choice for your Thanksgiving meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season the scallops with salt and pepper. When the oil is hot, add the scallops in a single layer, searing them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant and the butter has melted.
  4. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest. Return the scallops to the skillet, coating them in the sauce.
  5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pan-Seared Scallops with Lemon Butter Sauce is a stunning dish that adds sophistication to your Thanksgiving table. The combination of perfectly seared scallops and zesty lemon butter creates a delightful balance of flavors that will leave your guests raving about this elegant seafood option.

Mediterranean Baked Fish with Tomatoes and Olives

Mediterranean Baked Fish with Tomatoes and Olives is a light and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. This recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving, offering a healthy yet satisfying seafood option that is packed with vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • 4 white fish fillets (such as cod or halibut)
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, olives, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
  3. Place the fish fillets on top of the tomato and olive mixture, seasoning with additional salt and pepper.
  4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Serve the fish with the tomato and olive mixture spooned over the top, garnished with fresh basil and lemon wedges.

Mediterranean Baked Fish with Tomatoes and Olives is a delightful and healthy option for your Thanksgiving seafood dinner. The combination of fresh fish, juicy tomatoes, and briny olives creates a flavorful and aromatic dish that celebrates the bounty of the sea while offering a light and refreshing counterpoint to heavier holiday fare.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!

Steph B

A passionate culinary enthusiast living in the United States. With her flair for creating mouthwatering homemade delicacies, she has carved a niche for herself in the world of cooking. Steph’s journey in the culinary realm began as a simple hobby but soon transformed into an exciting adventure that she cherishes to this day.