26 Epic Southern Seafood Recipes That Put Your Usual Dinners to Shame

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Get ready to take a delicious trip down south with these 26 epic Southern seafood recipes that will put your usual dinners to shame. Whether you’re a fan of spicy shrimp, creamy crab, or flavorful fish, these dishes will bring a touch of Southern charm to your table. Each recipe is packed with bold flavors and classic ingredients that make Southern cuisine so beloved. From shrimp boils to jambalaya, these recipes are sure to impress and satisfy every seafood lover.

Citrus Shrimp with Louis Sauce

A hand dipping a boiled shrimp cocktail into a bowl of Louis sauce.
Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Meet Louis sauce, a bold Cajun shrimp sauce that packs a punch! Initially conceived as a humble shrimp cocktail sauce with a hint of horseradish, this zesty condiment takes a thrilling turn with the addition of chili sauce, Worcestershire sauce, grated onion, crushed red pepper, and hot sauce – a fearless fusion! Get the Recipe: Citrus Shrimp with Louis Sauce

Shrimp Boil Soup

A close-up of a dish featuring shrimp, sausage slices, baby corn, and fresh basil mixed in a soup.
Photo Credit: Living Chirpy.

This Shrimp Boil Soup brings all the flavors of a classic seafood boil into a comforting bowl of soup. With hearty potatoes, corn, and succulent shrimp, it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for any potluck or family gathering, it’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Boil Soup

Coosaw Island Creamy Cold Crab Dip

A bowl of food on a plate, with Cream and Crab dip.
Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Experience the transformative power of South Carolina’s Lowcountry, where a visit can shift your perspective on, well, everything! And what better way to accelerate this newfound enlightenment than with a refreshing cold beer and a decadent bowl of Coosaw Island Creamy Cold Crab Dip? Trust us, clarity has never tasted so good! Get the Recipe: Coosaw Island Creamy Cold Crab Dip

Kalamata Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Lettuce wrap with chunks of salmon, creamy sauce, green herb garnish.
Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

This Kalamata Yogurt Sauce is the perfect companion to your favorite seafood dishes. The tangy Greek yogurt mixed with briny Kalamata olives and fresh herbs creates a vibrant sauce. It’s a versatile dip or topping that adds a Mediterranean twist to any seafood meal.
Get the Recipe: Kalamata Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Cajun Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Shells in Vodka Sauce

A fork lifting a cheesy, baked stuffed shells adorned with herbs.
Photo Credit: Erica’s Recipes.

These Cajun Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Shells in Vodka Sauce are an indulgent seafood treat. Jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich, spicy mixture of shrimp and crab, then baked in a creamy vodka sauce, are sure to impress. They’re perfect for a special dinner or a festive potluck.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Shells in Vodka Sauce

Jambalaya Recipe

Shrimp, rice, chopped green onions, and herbs in a savory sauce.
Photo Credit: The Forked Spoon.

This Jambalaya recipe is a flavorful, one-pot seafood meal that’s bursting with Cajun spices, tender chicken, shrimp, and smoked sausage. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Serve it up for a taste of New Orleans right in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Jambalaya Recipe

Stuffed Mushrooms with Crab

Stuffed mushrooms topped with melted cheese and crispy breadcrumbs, garnished with chopped parsley.
Photo Credit: Heavenly Spiced.

These Stuffed Mushrooms with Crab are bite-sized seafood delights filled with a creamy crab mixture and topped with melted cheese. They’re perfect appetizers for any get-together. Simple to prepare and even easier to eat, they’ll disappear quickly!
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Mushrooms with Crab

Southern Style Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage

A black bowl with creamy grits, shrimp, diced bell peppers, chives, and a red-tinted sauce.
Photo Credit: Casual Epicure.

This Southern Style Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage is a hearty, comforting seafood dish. Creamy, cheesy grits are topped with spicy shrimp and sausage for a true Southern classic. Ideal for brunch or dinner, it’s a dish that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Shrimp and Grits with Andouille Sausage

Cajun Shrimp and Grits

A plate of creamy grits topped with shrimp in a savory brown sauce, garnished with chopped herbs.
Photo Credit: Dishes with Dad.

These Cajun Shrimp and Grits offer a spicy twist on a beloved Southern seafood staple. The creamy grits pair perfectly with the seasoned shrimp, creating a dish that’s both comforting and bold. It’s an easy recipe that brings a taste of the South to your table.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Creamy Cajun Salmon Alfredo

A fork with a bite of pasta topped with shredded cheese and pieces of salmon, over a bowl filled with the same pasta mix.
Photo Credit: Bless This Meal.

This Creamy Cajun Salmon Alfredo combines rich Alfredo sauce with perfectly seasoned seafood salmon for an indulgent meal. The Cajun spices give it a kick, while the creamy sauce keeps it comforting. It’s a quick and easy dinner that’s both impressive and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Cajun Salmon Alfredo

Smoked Salmon Omelette

An omelette with smoked salmon and goat cheese on a plate with toast and orange slices.
Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

Salty smoked salmon and creamy goat cheese pair deliciously with eggs and fresh herbs in this easy omelette recipe! It only takes 10 minutes to make.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Omelette

Best Ever Cajun Honey Butter Salmon

The image shows three pieces of grilled salmon, covered in sauce, garnished with chopped herbs, and accompanied by lemon wedges on a white plate.
Photo Credit: Bless This Meal.

This Cajun Honey Butter Salmon is a sweet, spicy, and utterly irresistible seafood dish. The honey butter glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a perfect contrast to the spicy Cajun seasoning. It’s a dish that’s sure to be a hit at any meal.
Get the Recipe: Best Ever Cajun Honey Butter Salmon

Tuscan Salmon in Cream Sauce

Four salmon fillets in a creamy sauce with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes are cooked in a skillet.
Photo Credit: Erren Hart for Erren’s Kitchen

Savor the deliciousness of pan-seared salmon in a creamy sauce bursting with garlic, onions, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and parmesan cheese. It’s like enjoying a gourmet meal in the comfort of your own home.

Get the Recipe: Tuscan Salmon in Cream Sauce

Stuffed Deviled Crab: A South Carolina Lowcountry Classic

A utensil spreading sauce on baked seafood, topped with breadcrumbs and garnished with diced red peppers and chives.
Photo Credit: Not Entirely Average.

Stuffed Deviled Crab is a Lowcountry seafood classic that brings a taste of South Carolina to your table. Crab meat is seasoned and baked in a shell for a deliciously savory dish. It’s perfect for a special dinner or a Southern-themed potluck.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Deviled Crab: A South Carolina Lowcountry Classic

Parsley Pesto Salmon Recipe

A fork holding a piece of cooked salmon topped with chopped herbs and tomatoes. Additional pieces of salmon and garnishes in the background.
Photo Credit: Not Entirely Average.

This Parsley Pesto Salmon is a fresh, vibrant seafood dish that’s both healthy and flavorful. The homemade parsley pesto adds a bright, herby flavor to the perfectly cooked salmon. It’s an easy weeknight meal that feels gourmet.
Get the Recipe: Parsley Pesto Salmon Recipe

Best Dang Shrimp Creole

A bowl with shrimp in a tomato-based sauce, garnished with chopped parsley.
Photo Credit: Recipes from a Pantry.

This Shrimp Creole is a spicy, flavorful seafood dish that’s a true taste of Louisiana. The shrimp are simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers, onions, and plenty of Cajun seasoning. It’s a quick and delicious dinner option that’s sure to satisfy.
Get the Recipe: Best Dang Shrimp Creole

Blackened Shrimp Bowl

A bowl containing shrimp, red bell peppers, and rice, garnished with chopped green onions. A silver fork is placed in the bowl. Yellow cherry tomatoes are nearby on a white surface.
Photo Credit: Champagne Tastes.

This Blackened Shrimp Bowl is packed with bold seafood flavors and fresh ingredients. Spicy blackened shrimp are served over rice with a refreshing guacamole, creating a balanced and delicious meal. It’s perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Bowl

Charleston Shrimp and Grits with Crab Gravy

Close-up of a cooked shrimp in a rich, seasoned sauce. The shrimp is coated with the sauce, displaying a glossy appearance and pink hue.
Photo Credit: Not Entirely Average.

If you’ve had the pleasure of visiting Charleston, South Carolina, you may have already indulged in our local cuisine, perhaps even savoring a plate of shrimp and grits. This beloved dish boasts multiple variations, influenced by the chef’s touch and the location where it’s served. The recipe I’m about to share is rooted in the traditional Gullah approach, with a similar ingredient list and preparation method that honors this cultural heritage. Get the Recipe: Charleston Shrimp and Grits with Crab Gravy

A Recipe for Charleston Pickled Spiced Shrimp

A pickled topped with shrimp, sliced peppers, greens, and cream sauce on a white plate.
Photo Credit: Not Entirely Average.

These Charleston Pickled Spiced Shrimp are a unique and flavorful seafood appetizer. The shrimp are marinated in a tangy, spiced brine, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and savory. They’re perfect for a light starter at your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: A Recipe for Charleston Pickled Spiced Shrimp

Crawfish Dip Recipe

A skillet filled with dip topped with shrimp, fresh herbs, and green onions.
Photo Credit: A Full Living.

This Crawfish Dip is a creamy, cheesy seafood appetizer that’s perfect for any party. Packed with tender crawfish and spicy Cajun seasoning, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to disappear quickly. Serve it with crackers or bread for a delicious snack.
Get the Recipe: Crawfish Dip Recipe

Fried Lobster

A white plate holds fried lobster tail, hush puppies, corn fritters, a lemon wedge, and a small cup of dipping sauce.
Photo Credit: Powell Family Cooking.

This Fried Lobster is a decadent seafood treat that’s sure to impress. The lobster tails are battered and fried to golden perfection, creating a crispy, juicy dish. Serve it with lemon wedges and a dipping sauce for a luxurious meal.
Get the Recipe: Fried Lobster

Delicata Squash Saltimbocca with Pan Scallops

close up of Delicate Squash Saltimbocca with Pan Scallops
Photo Credit: Not Entirely Average.

Delicata Squash Saltimbocca with Pan Scallops is a culinary masterpiece that will ignite your passion for cooking! Imagine the perfect harmony of crispy sage leaves, salty prosciutto, and tender squash, all wrapped up and served with succulent seared scallops. It’s a kitchen symphony that will leave you craving more! Get the Recipe: Delicata Squash Saltimbocca with Pan Scallops

Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp

Penne pasta, seasoned shrimp, grated cheese
Photo Credit: Dishes with Dad.

This Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp is a rich, spicy seafood dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. The creamy sauce is infused with Cajun spices and tossed with shrimp and pasta for a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Cajun Pasta with Shrimp

Florida Smoked Fish Dip Recipe

A bowl of fish dip with lemon slices, chopped red onions, and two saltine crackers.
Photo Credit: Cooking in the Keys.

This Florida Smoked Fish Dip is a classic Southern seafood appetizer. Made with smoked fish, cream cheese, and a blend of spices, it’s a creamy and flavorful dip. Serve it with crackers or veggies for a tasty snack.
Get the Recipe: Florida Smoked Fish Dip Recipe

Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

A bowl containing baby corn, sliced potatoes, shrimp, and sausage, garnished with chopped herbs.
Photo Credit: LikeHotKeto.

This Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil brings all the flavors of a traditional seafood boil to a convenient sheet pan. With shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes all baked together, it’s a simple and delicious meal. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or an easy potluck dish.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil

Lowcountry Boil Recipe

Shrimp, corn on the cob, sausage slices, potatoes, seasoned with herbs and spices.
Photo Credit: Britney Breaks Bread.

This Lowcountry Boil is a seafood lover’s dream with shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes all in one pot. The seasoning mix of Old Bay and Cajun spices makes it a flavorful hit at any gathering. Plus, it’s as simple to clean up as it is to cook!
Get the Recipe: Lowcountry Boil Recipe

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About Jenny deRemer

I am a Charleston, South Carolina-based culinary novice, an ardent authority on all things travel, a designer by trade, and the creator of Not Entirely Average. I have a weakness for farmers' markets, delight in adventures way off the beaten path, enjoy documenting my many moods through photography, and have been known to conquer the occasional yard sale with gusto!

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