Let’s snap out of it, Seafoodies!
Groundhog Day may have come and gone, but do you ever feel like you’re stuck in a mealtime loop? You know the routine: stare into the fridge, wonder what to cook, debate ordering takeout, frantically search for recipes online and finally feel frazzled—again. While the groundhog might be done predicting the weather, we completely sympathize with getting trapped in that daily kitchen déjà vu.
Here’s how to break the cycle: call in your countertop cavalry—the air fryer and Instant Pot! These kitchen must-haves are our favorite “easy button” for when you need to escape culinary monotony. And when it comes to seafood, these meal-making machines truly shine.
The air fryer is revolutionary for making seafood recipes that call for that beloved combination of crispy on the outside, tender on the inside and perfectly cooked every time. With little to no oil, you can create healthier versions of your favorite fried seafood dishes—from Maple-Glazed Salmon to Beer Battered Fish and Chips. Plus, the air fryer is fast—it can cook Shrimp Po’ Boy Burgers in as little as 10 minutes! Another bonus? Cleanup is a breeze. No oil splatters, no multiple pans—just one nonstick basket that’s easy to rinse out or keep clean with a disposable liner. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want delicious, fuss-free dinners in a flash.
Not to be overshadowed, the Instant Pot is our go-to gadget for tender, melt-in-your-mouth meals. It’s especially great for recipes like our Lobster Bisque, Curried Mussels or velvety Shrimp and Cheesy-Chive Grits. The quick pressure-cooking locks in moisture and flavor, without having to spend time stirring an open pot for hours. Have a hankering for something complex like a risotto or tikka masala? You might not believe it, but the Instant Pot makes these traditionally time-consuming dishes a breeze, turning out rich, delectable results with minimal effort.
To help you break that dreaded menu-planning loop for good, we’ve put together the ultimate collection of our easiest seafood countertop cooking recipes for fast, fresh and fantastic meals.
Enjoy!
Serve your finished 30-minute masala over fluffy basmati rice, scoop it up with warm naan bread or pair with your favorite veggies!
We’ve perfected dozens of Instant Pot dishes, but this seafood risotto is one of our favorites—after the first forkful, you’ll understand why!
Plump, tender mussels simmered in an exotic blend of coconut milk, wine and spices will transport you to the South Seas—and all in one pot.
We used frozen lobster to bring the prep time down to 10 minutes—then just set and forget for about an hour in the IP!
Instant Pot Crab Mac ‘n’ Cheese
A little indulgent, but mac ‘n’ cheese is a time-honored beloved bowl for good reason—plus this recipe is a great way to introduce crab to your little seafoodies.
Instant Pot Pasta with Red Sauce and Clams
Cooking clams in the Instant Pot is a revolution: You can make sauce and pasta in the same pot, at the same time!
Instant Pot Shrimp and Cheesy-Chive Grits
We hate to brag, but this shrimp and grits dish got raves from all our taste-testers and for a more health-conscious spin—that speaks volumes.
Instant Pot Salmon and Tortellini Soup
Not only is this soup outstanding, but we love the added convenience of using frozen ingredients (no thawing required).
It’s a party in one pot! Cover your table in foil and recreate one of those popular seafood boils you see on social media, right at home.
You can always kick up the heat in this fish curry by adding more jalapeno or serrano chilies.
Air Fryer Mac ‘n’ Cheese Tuna Bites
Fair warning—you might want to make a double batch. We like to keep some of these bites in the refrigerator for an after-school snack or a quick lunch when time is of the essence.
Air Fryer Maple-Glazed Salmon with Brussels Sprouts
When whipping up sticky glazes, we always recommend popping a disposable liner in your air fryer for hassle-free cleanup!
We are convinced that anyone with an air fryer can master this recipe—really, it’s almost as easy as pressing a button.
Fried foods tend to be higher in saturated fat and calories (and messy to cook at home)—but surprise! Not so with an air fryer.
Air Fryer Healthy Beer Battered Fish and Chips
An air fryer is the best way to make those classic fish and chips healthier—without sacrificing the crunch we all dream of.
Air Fryer Calamari with Chipotle Dipping Sauce
If you always order calamari as an appetizer when dining out—it’s finally time to try making it at home.
File this recipe under “go-to” as a 20-minute low-stress solution to salvage any mealtime madness and save your sanity!
Close your eyes and inhale! The sweetness of Thai coconut and shrimp will instantly transport you to someplace a little dreamier than your kitchen table.
Air Fryer Shrimp Po’ Boy Burger with Remoulade Sauce
You’ll want to throw some beads for these N’awlins-inspired patties that truly take only 35 minutes to make—from chopping toppings to serving up the sauce.
Three ingredients are all it takes to plate up the protein for a delish dinner—then get creative with a side salad or rice for a complete meal.
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