15+ Shrimp And Lobster Recipes For The Ultimate Seafood Night

I still remember the first time I tried to impress neighbors with a spontaneous seafood night. It started with a bag of shrimp thawing on the counter and a single lobster tail I had bought on sale, and by the time music was on and wine was opened the kitchen smelled like a small harbor. That mix of shrimp and lobster is exactly what makes 15+ Shrimp And Lobster Recipes For The Ultimate Seafood Night so fun: familiar ingredients that can be dressed up for a weeknight or made glorious for company.

1. Shrimp Scampi with Lemon and Parsley

Why You’ll Love It:

This is the kind of dinner you can pull together in minutes and still feel fancy. It works for quick weeknights when you want comfort and for casual dinner guests who expect something bright and buttery. Anyone who loves garlicky shrimp will find it impossible to resist.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 12 ounces linguine
• 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 lemon zested and juiced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Cook linguine according to package directions until al dente, reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Pat shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add shrimp and cook 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp to a plate.
5. Add remaining butter, lemon juice and zest to the pan, then toss in cooked pasta and a few tablespoons of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
6. Return shrimp to the pan, stir in parsley, adjust seasoning and serve immediately.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Serving Idea: Serve with crusty bread to mop up the garlic butter and a simple green salad on the side.

Flavor Boost: Finish with a few grinds of fresh black pepper and an extra drizzle of olive oil for shine.

2. Classic New England Lobster Rolls

Why You’ll Love It:

Lobster rolls are a summer crowd pleaser and they transform a special ingredient into a casual, hands-on meal. They are perfect for backyard dinners, picnics, or a relaxed seafood night when you want something that feels indulgent without fuss.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 1/2 pounds cooked lobster meat chopped
• 4 split top hot dog buns or brioche rolls
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
• 2 tablespoons melted butter for toasting buns
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. In a bowl gently combine lobster meat, mayonnaise, celery, lemon juice and chives. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Brush the inside of buns with melted butter and toast in a skillet until golden brown.
3. Fill each bun with an even portion of lobster salad. Serve immediately.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Swap This With That: Swap mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt to lighten the filling.

Serving Idea: Serve with crisp potato chips or a simple slaw for a seaside vibe.

3. Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers

Why You’ll Love It:

Skewers make shrimp easy to grill and easy to eat. This recipe is great for outdoor meals where you want quick cook time and bright flavors. Kids and adults alike love the smoky char paired with citrus.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 23 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 1/2 pounds large shrimp peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 lemon slices for skewering

How to Make It:

1. In a bowl whisk together oil, garlic, lemon zest and juice, paprika, salt and pepper.
2. Toss shrimp in the marinade and let sit 10 minutes.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers alternating with lemon slices.
4. Grill over medium heat 2 to 3 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred. Serve warm.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Serving Idea: Pair with grilled corn and a simple herb yogurt dip.

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cayenne to the marinade for extra heat.

4. Butter Poached Lobster Tails

Why You’ll Love It:

Butter poaching is a simple way to make lobster tender and ultra rich. It is a great technique for special occasions when you want restaurant quality without complicated steps. The result is silky lobster perfect for a celebratory seafood night.

Serving size: Serves 2

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 lobster tails about 6 ounces each
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 garlic clove smashed
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• Salt to taste

How to Make It:

1. Thaw lobster tails if frozen, then carefully cut top shell lengthwise and loosen meat from shell leaving base attached.
2. Melt butter in a wide skillet over low heat with garlic. Do not let butter brown.
3. Add lobster tails meat side down and gently spoon warm butter over meat for 8 to 10 minutes until cooked through.
4. Finish with lemon juice, sprinkle with parsley and serve right away.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Common Mistake to Avoid: Do not boil the butter; keep it just warm so the lobster cooks gently.

Serving Idea: Serve with steamed asparagus and boiled baby potatoes.

5. Shrimp and Lobster Fra Diavolo

Why You’ll Love It:

For when you want dramatic flavor and a bit of heat. This tomato based seafood pasta is a showstopper and a great way to combine shrimp and lobster in one bowl. It is cozy enough for a night in and bold enough for guests.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 12 ounces linguine
• 1/2 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound lobster meat chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup white wine optional
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Cook pasta until al dente and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Heat oil in a sauté pan, cook onion until translucent then add garlic and red pepper flakes.
3. Add crushed tomatoes and wine, simmer 10 to 15 minutes to meld flavors.
4. Add lobster and shrimp, cook until shrimp turn pink.
5. Toss in pasta and pasta water as needed, stir in basil and serve.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Best Pairings: Crusty bread and a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon.

Flavor Boost: Stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end for extra silkiness.

6. Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Lobster Boil

Why You’ll Love It:

A boil is festive, social, and perfect for feeding a group. The combination of spicy Cajun flavors, corn, potatoes, and two kinds of shellfish makes it a full meal that cooks in one pot and gets everyone gathered around the table.

Serving size: Serves 6

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 pound shrimp in shell
• 2 pounds lobster tails or whole lobster split
• 1 pound small red potatoes
• 4 ears corn cut into halves
• 1 onion quartered
• 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning plus extra for serving
• 4 cloves garlic smashed
• 8 cups water

How to Make It:

1. In a large pot bring water, Cajun seasoning, onion and garlic to a boil.
2. Add potatoes and cook 10 minutes.
3. Add corn and cook 5 minutes.
4. Add lobster and shrimp and cook until lobster is opaque and shrimp are pink, about 4 to 6 minutes.
5. Drain and toss with extra Cajun seasoning, serve on newspaper or a large platter.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Meal Prep Tip: Precook potatoes and corn ahead and reheat in the seasoned broth right before guests arrive.

Serving Idea: Provide drawn butter, lemon wedges and cocktail sauce for dipping.

7. Lobster Mac and Cheese with Gruyere

Why You’ll Love It:

Combining lobster with creamy mac and cheese makes a decadent comfort dish that feels celebratory without being fussy. It is perfect for a cozy night when you want comfort food that still tastes special.

Serving size: Serves 6

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 12 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 pound lobster meat chopped
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups grated Gruyere cheese
• 1 cup grated sharp cheddar
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 375 F. Cook pasta until slightly under al dente.
2. Make a roux with butter and flour, whisk in milk and cream until thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cheeses until melted.
4. Combine pasta, lobster and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with panko and extra cheese.
5. Bake 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Budget-Friendly Tip: Use half Gruyere and half cheddar to reduce cost while keeping flavor.

Personal Note: This recipe always disappears at family gatherings, even when I tell people to save room.

8. Citrus Herb Shrimp and Lobster Salad

Why You’ll Love It:

A bright salad balances the richness of lobster and the snap of shrimp, making it ideal for lunches or light dinners. It is a refreshing option after heavier seafood dishes and feels bright and springlike.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 23 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 8 ounces mixed salad greens
• 1/2 pound cooked shrimp peeled
• 1/2 pound cooked lobster meat chopped
• 1 orange segmented
• 1/2 grapefruit segmented
• 1/2 cucumber thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Whisk olive oil and vinegar with salt and pepper to make vinaigrette.
2. Toss greens, citrus segments, cucumber, shrimp and lobster with dressing.
3. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Swap This With That: Swap grapefruit for sliced strawberries in summer.

Serving Idea: Serve with a chilled glass of dry white wine.

9. Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa

Why You’ll Love It:

Tacos are a casual, fun way to enjoy shrimp, and adding lobster to the filling takes them from weeknight to special. The sweet mango salsa brightens each bite and makes this a lively seafood option.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 28 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 12 small corn tortillas
• 1/2 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound lobster meat chopped
• 1 mango diced
• 1/4 red onion finely chopped
• 1 jalapeno seeded and minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste

How to Make It:

1. Toss mango, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro and lime juice to make salsa and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a skillet, sauté shrimp and lobster pieces until opaque, about 3 to 4 minutes. Season with salt.
3. Warm tortillas, fill with seafood and top with mango salsa.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Serving Idea: Add shredded cabbage and a drizzle of lime crema for texture.

Flavor Boost: Grill the shrimp and lobster for extra smoky flavor.

10. Creamy Shrimp and Lobster Linguine Alfredo

Why You’ll Love It:

Alfredo sauce with a mix of shrimp and lobster feels indulgent and comforting. It is a good pick when you want a rich, creamy main that still comes together quickly.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 12 ounces linguine
• 1/2 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound lobster meat chopped
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Cook linguine until al dente and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Sauté garlic in butter until fragrant, add cream and simmer to thicken slightly.
3. Stir in Parmesan until melted to make sauce.
4. Add shrimp and lobster until heated through, then toss with pasta and pasta water to reach desired consistency. Season and serve.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Common Mistake to Avoid: Do not boil the sauce; keep it at a low simmer to prevent separation.

Best Pairings: Steamed broccoli and garlic bread work well alongside this dish.

11. Lobster Thermidor Light

Why You’ll Love It:

A lighter take on a classic, this version keeps the creamy, savory notes without being overly heavy. It is a lovely option for dinner parties where you want an elegant main that looks impressive.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 1/2 pounds cooked lobster meat chopped
• 4 lobster shells reserved for stuffing optional
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small shallot minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 cup light cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Sauté shallot in butter until soft, add wine and reduce slightly.
2. Stir in cream and mustard, simmer until thickened.
3. Add lobster meat and warm through. Season and spoon into lobster shells or small ramekins.
4. Top with Parmesan and broil 2 to 3 minutes until golden.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Meal Prep Tip: Prepare the filling a day ahead and broil just before serving for ease.

Personal Note: I like making this when I want something showy but still manageable at home.

12. Shrimp and Lobster Paella

Why You’ll Love It:

Paella is communal and dramatic, combining seafood, rice and saffron into one pan. Shrimp and lobster add layers of texture and flavor, and the crusty bottom is worth the attention it requires.

Serving size: Serves 6

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hours 5 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cups paella or short grain rice
• 1/2 pound shrimp in shell
• 1 pound lobster pieces
• 4 cups chicken or seafood stock warmed
• 1 onion chopped
• 1 bell pepper diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• Pinch saffron soaked in 2 tablespoons warm water
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Sauté onion and pepper in olive oil until soft, add garlic and rice and toast briefly.
2. Stir in saffron and warm stock, spread rice evenly and simmer without stirring.
3. After 15 minutes nest shrimp and lobster into the rice and sprinkle peas over the top.
4. Cook until rice is tender and socarrat forms on the bottom, about 20 more minutes. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Best Pairings: Serve with crisp white wine and a simple green salad.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Do not stir the rice after adding stock to allow the crust to form.

13. Garlic Butter Surf and Turf Skillet

Why You’ll Love It:

This skillet combines seared steak with shrimp and lobster for a lively, one pan meal. It is ideal for a date night at home when you want to serve a little bit of everything without working too hard.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 pound sirloin steak cut into medallions
• 1/2 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound lobster meat chopped
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Season steak with salt and pepper and sear in hot skillet with oil until desired doneness, remove and rest.
2. Reduce heat, add butter and garlic, then sauté shrimp and lobster until cooked through.
3. Return steak to the skillet to warm through and spoon garlic butter over everything. Garnish with thyme and serve.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Serving Idea: Serve with roasted fingerling potatoes and a simple watercress salad.

Flavor Boost: Add a splash of lemon juice to the butter before serving.

14. Tempura Shrimp and Lobster Bites

Why You’ll Love It:

Tempura gives seafood a light, crisp shell that is fun for appetizers or a casual shared meal. These bites are great for serving with dipping sauces and are perfect for entertaining.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1/2 pound shrimp peeled with tails on
• 1/2 pound lobster meat cut into bite sized pieces
• 1 cup all purpose flour plus extra for dredging
• 1 cup ice cold sparkling water
• 1 egg lightly beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Salt to taste

How to Make It:

1. Heat oil to 350 F in a deep pan.
2. Combine flour, egg and ice cold sparkling water gently to make a lumpy batter.
3. Lightly dredge seafood in flour, dip into batter and fry in batches until golden, 2 to 3 minutes. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.
4. Serve warm with dipping sauce.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Serving Idea: Offer ponzu and spicy mayo as dipping options.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Keep batter cold and do not overmix to maintain crispness.

15. Shrimp and Lobster Stir Fry with Ginger Soy

Why You’ll Love It:

A quick stir fry is a weeknight lifesaver and combining shrimp and lobster gives an extra touch of luxury. The ginger soy sauce is bright and savory, and the dish comes together in under 20 minutes.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1/2 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound lobster meat chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper sliced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

How to Make It:

1. Whisk soy sauce, vinegar and honey in a small bowl.
2. Heat oil in a wok, stir fry vegetables until just tender and remove.
3. Add shrimp and lobster and stir fry until nearly cooked, add garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.
4. Return vegetables to the wok, pour sauce over and toss to coat. Serve with rice.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Meal Prep Tip: Chop vegetables ahead of time and store in the fridge for quick assembly.

Swap This With That: Use tamari instead of soy for a gluten free option.

16. Chipotle Lime Shrimp and Lobster Bowls

Why You’ll Love It:

Bowls are customizable and easy to assemble for busy nights. The chipotle lime flavor gives the seafood a smoky tang that pairs well with grains, beans and fresh toppings.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• 1/2 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound lobster meat chopped
• 1 tablespoon chipotle in adobo minced
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
• 1 avocado sliced
• Salt to taste

How to Make It:

1. Whisk chipotle, lime juice and olive oil then toss shrimp and lobster in the mixture.
2. Sauté seafood in a hot skillet until cooked through, about 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Assemble bowls with rice, black beans, seafood, avocado and any additional toppings you like.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Best Pairings: Pickled red onions and a dollop of crema complement the bowl well.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Use canned crab in place of lobster to lower cost.

17. Garlic and White Wine Steamed Shrimp and Lobster

Why You’ll Love It:

Steaming in a garlic white wine broth is simple but elegant. The seafood stays juicy and takes on delicate aromatics. This method is good when you want purity of flavor and a light presentation.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 18 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 pound shrimp in shell
• 1 pound lobster pieces
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 4 cloves garlic thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• Salt to taste

How to Make It:

1. In a wide pot combine wine, garlic and butter and bring to a simmer.
2. Place seafood in a steamer basket above the simmering liquid and cover.
3. Steam 6 to 8 minutes until seafood is opaque and cooked through.
4. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with warmed butter for dipping.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Flavor Boost: Add a few saffron threads to the steaming liquid for a subtle floral note.

Serving Idea: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the broth.

FAQ

What is the best way to thaw frozen shrimp and lobster safely?

Thaw seafood overnight in the refrigerator for best texture. For quicker thawing, place sealed seafood in a bowl of cold water and change the water every 20 minutes until thawed.

Can I swap lobster for crab in these recipes?

Yes, crab is a fine substitute in many of these dishes, especially salads, pasta and mac and cheese. Adjust cooking times as crab is often pre cooked.

How long can I store cooked shrimp and lobster leftovers?

Store cooked seafood in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

Are there simple ways to make these recipes budget friendly?

Use a mix of shrimp and less expensive shellfish, buy frozen lobster meat on sale, or stretch portions with pasta, rice or beans to serve more people.

Conclusion

These 15 shrimp and lobster recipes offer a range of moods for your seafood night, from casual tacos and bowls to elegant lobster thermidor and butter poached tails. Each recipe is designed so you can cook confidently without losing the joy of experimenting with flavors. Pick a few that match your schedule and appetite, and know that mixing shrimp and lobster across different preparations will give your table variety and plenty of memorable bites.