Are you a seafood lover looking for some delicious and easy-to-make dishes to add to your repertoire? Look no further! Shrimp and crab are two of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen, and when combined, they create a flavor combination that’s hard to beat. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, we’ve got 20 mouthwatering shrimp and crab recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll be exploring a range of recipes that showcase the best of what shrimp and crab have to offer. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and indulgent, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your apron and get ready to dive into the world of shrimp and crab cooking!
**Recipe Highlights:**
* Creamy Shrimp and Crab Bisque
* Garlic Butter Shrimp and Crab Pasta
* Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Crab Boil
Creamy Shrimp and Crab Bisque
This rich and flavorful bisque combines succulent shrimp and crab with a creamy base, perfect for a special occasion or cozy dinner party. With its velvety texture and bold seafood flavors, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup fish stock (or chicken stock)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add shrimp and crab meat; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink.
3. Pour in fish stock and heavy cream; stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Crab Pasta
A decadent seafood pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp, sweet crab, and a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine or fettuccine)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add garlic and paprika; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in crab meat and reserved pasta water. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and crab sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Crab Boil
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Crab Boil, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 pound crab legs, frozen or fresh
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the shrimp and crab. Bring to a boil.
2. Add the olive oil, chopped onion, minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, and cayenne pepper. Stir well.
3. Add the shrimp and crab legs to the boiling pot. Cook for 4-6 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and the crab is opaque.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Mushrooms recipe!
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup cooked, peeled, and deveined shrimp
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, shrimp, butter, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth. Fill each cap with the seafood mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of the filling.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Shrimp and Crab Ceviche
This refreshing recipe combines succulent shrimp and crab with zesty lime juice, perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer or snack. With minimal prep time and no cooking required, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shrimp, crab meat, lime juice, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Stir gently to combine, taking care not to break up the seafood.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in chopped cilantro.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
Cooking Time: None! Let the ceviche sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or longer for optimal flavor.
Baked Shrimp and Crab Dip
Add a touch of elegance to your gathering with this succulent Baked Shrimp and Crab Dip, perfect for serving with crackers, chips, or veggies. This rich and creamy dip is a delightful combination of fresh shrimp, crab meat, and tangy cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 ounces jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together shrimp, crab meat, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the dip is lightly browned and heated through.
5. Serve warm with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Louie Salad
A classic seafood salad that combines succulent shrimp and crab with crunchy vegetables, tangy dressing, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 ounces jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce leaves for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp and crab meat.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, and chopped parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Pour dressing over seafood mixture; toss to coat.
5. Add seafood mixture to vegetable mixture; gently fold to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving on lettuce leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Shrimp and Crab Gumbo
Shrimp and Crab Gumbo Recipe
A classic Louisiana dish, this Shrimp and Crab Gumbo recipe combines succulent shrimp, crab meat, and spices for a flavorful and hearty meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups fish stock or water
– 2 tablespoons filé powder (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp, crab meat, diced tomatoes, and fish stock or water; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and filé powder (if using).
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Cheesy Shrimp and Crab Quesadillas
These mouthwatering quesadillas combine the freshness of shrimp and crab with the creaminess of cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, and avocado for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together shrimp, crab meat, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese. Add about 1/4 cup of the seafood mixture on half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Avocados
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of avocado with the succulence of shrimp and crab.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together shrimp, crab meat, lime juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide the mixture evenly among the avocado halves, spooning it into the pit cavities.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the avocados are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Garnish with cilantro, if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Fried Rice
A flavorful and savory twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines succulent shrimp and crab with scrambled eggs, mixed vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes; remove from pan.
3. Push cooked rice to one side of the pan. Crack eggs into the other side and scramble until set.
4. Mix in diced onion, garlic, mixed vegetables, crab meat, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked shrimp back into the mixture and stir-fry everything together for about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Crab Scampi
This recipe combines succulent shrimp and crab with a bright and zesty lemon garlic sauce, perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 ounces jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 4 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and cook until melted.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and crab meat; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and just cooked through.
4. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Sushi Rolls
This recipe combines the flavors of succulent shrimp and crab with creamy avocado, all wrapped up in a delicate sushi roll. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked and chilled shrimp
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup short-grain Japanese rice (sushi rice)
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the nori sheet into desired roll size.
3. Lay a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place 2-3 pieces of shrimp and crab mixture along the center of the rice.
5. Top with diced avocado.
6. Roll up the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into desired thickness.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and vibrant twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines succulent shrimp, crab, and cheese with sweet bell peppers. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2 minutes per side.
4. Stir in crab meat, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the shrimp-crab mixture and top with cheese.
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Alfredo
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and decadent shrimp and crab alfredo dish, featuring succulent seafood and a velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining butter, garlic, crab meat, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine, shrimp, and crab mixture. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Shrimp and Crab Skewers
Elevate your summer gatherings with these succulent and flavorful skewers featuring shrimp and crab, perfectly grilled to perfection. This easy-to-make recipe is sure to be a hit at your next backyard BBQ or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning.
3. Add the shrimp and crab meat; toss to coat evenly.
4. Thread the shrimp and crab mixture onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Corn Chowder
A creamy and flavorful chowder that combines succulent shrimp, crab, and sweet corn, perfect for a cozy evening meal or a warm weather treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the paprika, then add the shrimp and crab meat. Cook until the seafood is pink and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the corn kernels, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Tacos with Mango Salsa
A flavorful fusion of seafood and tropical sweetness, these tacos are perfect for a quick dinner or casual gathering. With succulent shrimp and crab, crispy tortillas, and a zesty mango salsa, this dish is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and crab; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and flaky.
3. Stir in lime juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with seafood mixture, Mango Salsa, and desired toppings.
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Cook time: 10-12 minutes.
Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Lobster Tails
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Lobster Tails recipe. Succulent lobster tails are filled with a flavorful mixture of succulent shrimp, rich crab, and savory spices, then baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 lobster tails (6-8 oz each)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup cooked and peeled shrimp
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crab meat, shrimp, butter, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning.
3. Split the lobster tails lengthwise and carefully remove the intestinal vein.
4. Stuff each tail with the crab-shrimp mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tails.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed lobster tails on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the lobster is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shrimp and Crab Paella
Paella, the classic Spanish dish, is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine. This recipe combines succulent shrimp and crab with flavorful saffron-infused rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Spanish rice (Calasparra or Bomba)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and crab; cook until pink and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in saffron mixture, chicken broth, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
5. Add rice to the pan, stirring to combine with liquid.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavors of the sea! This article presents 20 mouth-watering shrimp and crab recipes that are sure to delight seafood lovers. From creamy bisques to spicy boils, and from pasta dishes to sushi rolls, these recipes offer a variety of textures and flavors. Discover how to make Shrimp and Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, Easy Ceviche, Baked Dip, and many more! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, this collection has something for everyone. So go ahead, dive into the ocean of flavors and start cooking!