Memorial Day is all about honoring the past, enjoying the present, and kicking off summer with good food and great company. But who wants to spend the whole day sweating over a hot grill or stuck in the kitchen? That’s where your trusty crockpot comes in—letting you savor the flavors of the season without the fuss. And when it comes to effortless yet impressive dishes, seafood is the way to go.
Picture this: tender shrimp simmered in garlic butter, succulent crab legs steamed in beer and Old Bay, or a rich, creamy seafood chowder that practically makes itself while you relax by the pool. These slow-cooked seafood recipes are packed with bright, fresh flavors—think lemon, herbs, and a touch of spice—but require minimal prep, so you can spend less time cooking and more time celebrating. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash, a casual potluck, or just craving a laid-back feast, these crockpot dishes deliver big taste with little effort.
From crowd-pleasing crab dip to buttery lobster tails, zesty cioppino to Cajun-style shrimp boils, we’ve rounded up 12 foolproof recipes that let you enjoy the best of seafood without the stress. No babysitting, no complicated steps—just set it, forget it, and come back to a meal that tastes like you spent hours cooking. So grab your slow cooker, pick your favorite seafood, and get ready for a Memorial Day that’s as delicious as it is relaxing.
Teriyaki Glazed Tuna Steak
This Teriyaki Glazed Tuna Steak is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that makes for a simple yet impressive dish. The rich taste of tuna pairs perfectly with the sticky, umami-packed teriyaki sauce, creating a meal that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare in your crockpot.
Ideal for a stress-free Memorial Day, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it. While the tuna cooks to tender perfection, you can focus on enjoying your time with family and friends. Serve your tuna steaks over rice or with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 tuna steaks
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix the teriyaki sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
- Add Tuna: Place the tuna steaks in the crockpot and pour the sauce over them. Ensure the tuna is well-coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until the tuna is tender and flaky.
- Finish: Before serving, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for garnish.
- Serve: Enjoy the tuna steaks with rice or a fresh salad.
Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon
This Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon is a flavorful and hassle-free dish perfect for your Memorial Day gathering. The crispy, cheesy topping complements the tender salmon beautifully, creating a delightful combination that will impress your guests.
Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it also cooks perfectly in a crockpot, freeing up your time for other festivities. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that is both satisfying and elegant.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds salmon fillet
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon: Season the salmon fillet with salt and pepper, and place it in the crockpot.
- Make the topping: In a bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, garlic, breadcrumbs, olive oil, and parsley until well mixed.
- Top the salmon: Spread the mixture evenly over the salmon fillet.
- Add lemon: Place lemon slices on top of the salmon for extra flavor.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon with your favorite sides!
Mediterranean Seafood Pasta
This Mediterranean Seafood Pasta is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings the taste of summer right to your dinner table. With fresh ingredients and a savory blend of flavors, it’s the perfect meal for a laid-back Memorial Day gathering.
Combining pasta, seafood, and bright Mediterranean flavors, this recipe is not only simple but also a crowd-pleaser. It’s ideal for those days when you want something special without spending all day in the kitchen. Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work for you!
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup black olives, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup white wine or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a crockpot, combine shrimp, cherry tomatoes, black olives, garlic, olive oil, white wine or vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Add Pasta: Layer the cooked spaghetti on top of the seafood mixture and gently toss to combine.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until the shrimp are cooked through.
- Serve: Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley and add lemon slices for a zesty finish. Enjoy!
Tomato Basil Seafood Stew
This Tomato Basil Seafood Stew is a delightful blend of fresh seafood and vibrant flavors, perfect for a laid-back Memorial Day gathering. The rich, tomato-based broth, infused with aromatic basil, makes it a comforting dish that everyone will love. With its balance of savory and fresh ingredients, this stew is both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Cooking in a crockpot means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family. Just toss in your ingredients, let the slow cooker do its magic, and you’ll have a delicious seafood meal ready to serve.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound scallops
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups seafood stock
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- In the slow cooker, combine crushed tomatoes, seafood stock, chopped onion, garlic, oregano, and dried basil. Stir to mix.
- Season with salt and pepper. Add the shrimp and scallops, gently stirring them into the mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the seafood is cooked through and tender.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
Bright and zesty, Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer with every bite. This recipe is super simple, making it perfect for a relaxed Memorial Day gathering. With succulent shrimp simmered in a buttery, garlic-infused sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with everything from rice to crusty bread.
The combination of lemon and garlic brings a refreshing twist, ensuring that each mouthful is bursting with flavor. Plus, since it’s made in a crockpot, you can set it and forget it while you enjoy the day with friends and family. Your guests will love the aroma wafting through the air, and you’ll love how easy it is to prepare!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Begin by melting the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp into the crockpot. Pour the butter and garlic mixture over the shrimp, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Garnish: Once cooked, sprinkle the fresh parsley over the shrimp. Serve with optional lemon slices for an extra zesty kick.
Spicy Cajun Fish Tacos
These Spicy Cajun Fish Tacos are a mouthwatering fusion of bold flavors and fresh ingredients. With a kick of Cajun spices, flaky fish, and vibrant veggies, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up—just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while you relax!
The combination of juicy fish and zesty toppings creates a delightful balance that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Serve them with your favorite salsa and a squeeze of lime for an extra punch. Get ready to enjoy these delicious tacos!
Ingredients
- 1 pound white fish fillets (like cod or tilapia)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup onions, sliced
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Fish: Rinse the fish fillets and pat them dry. Rub Cajun seasoning and olive oil all over the fish.
- Layer in Crockpot: Place the sliced bell peppers, onions, corn, and diced tomatoes in the bottom of the crockpot. Lay the seasoned fish on top.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the fish is flaky and cooked through.
- Warm the Tortillas: Just before serving, warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
- Assemble Tacos: Flake the fish with a fork and fill each tortilla with the fish mixture. Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Shrimp and grits casserole combines the classic Southern flavors of shrimp and creamy grits into an easy, comforting dish. This recipe is perfect for a stress-free Memorial Day gathering, offering a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love. With a bit of cheese and spices, the dish is creamy, savory, and oh-so-delicious!
Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also allows you more time to enjoy your company. Just toss the ingredients into the crockpot and let it cook while you kick back and celebrate. It’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of the South to your holiday table!
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Grits: In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Stir in grits and reduce heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked grits, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
- Add Shrimp: Fold in the shrimp, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Transfer to Crockpot: Grease your crockpot and pour the grits and shrimp mixture into it. Dot the top with butter.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the shrimp is cooked and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy this crowd-pleaser!
Chili Lime Fish Skewers
Chili Lime Fish Skewers are a fresh and zesty option perfect for your Memorial Day gathering. The combination of chili and lime creates a bright, tangy flavor that enhances the natural taste of the fish, making each bite delicious. Plus, they are simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal effort!
These skewers are not only tasty but also offer a great way to enjoy a lighter meal during the holiday. Grilling brings out the best in the fish while keeping it moist and flaky. With the right balance of spices and citrus, these skewers are sure to be a hit at any outdoor event.
Ingredients
- 1 pound firm white fish (like cod or halibut), cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (soaked in water if using wooden)
Instructions
- Marinate the Fish: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add cubed fish and stir to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated fish onto the skewers. You can alternate with vegetables like bell peppers if desired.
- Cook the Skewers: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and serve hot with extra lime wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
Creamy Seafood Chowder
Creamy Seafood Chowder is a delightful blend of fresh seafood, vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth. It’s perfect for bringing a taste of the coast right to your kitchen! This chowder is not only flavorful but also simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a stress-free Memorial Day gathering.
The combination of hearty ingredients creates a comforting dish that everyone will love. Let your slow cooker do the magic while you enjoy time with family and friends. This chowder is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds!
Ingredients
- 1 pound white fish (like cod or haddock), cut into chunks
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup scallops
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups seafood stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the white fish, shrimp, scallops, potatoes, corn, carrots, celery, and onion.
- Add the Broth: Pour in the seafood stock and add Old Bay seasoning. Stir everything gently to combine.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
- Finish with Cream: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Enjoy!
Seafood Jambalaya
Seafood Jambalaya is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the coast to your table. This hearty one-pot meal features a mix of shrimp, crab, and fish, all simmered with Cajun spices, rice, and vegetables. It’s a delicious blend of savory and slightly spicy flavors that will impress your guests without the stress of complicated cooking.
Making this jambalaya in a crockpot simplifies the process, allowing you to set it and forget it while you enjoy your Memorial Day celebrations. The shrimp comes out tender, and the rice absorbs all the rich flavors, making every bite satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: In your crockpot, combine the sausage, bell peppers, onion, garlic, and diced tomatoes.
- Add the Rice: Pour in the rice and Cajun seasoning, mixing everything together well.
- Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken broth and bay leaf, then stir gently to combine.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 4-6 hours or until the rice is tender.
- Add the Shrimp: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the shrimp, cover, and cook until they turn pink and opaque.
- Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and enjoy your flavorful Seafood Jambalaya!
Coconut Curry Shrimp
Coconut Curry Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of coconut milk with the vibrant flavors of curry. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make, making it perfect for a hassle-free Memorial Day gathering. The shrimp cook to perfection in the rich curry sauce, creating a comforting meal that everyone will love.
The aroma of this dish is inviting, luring your guests in for a taste. With its creamy texture and the subtle heat from the curry, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it cooks effortlessly in a crockpot, allowing you to enjoy your day without being tied to the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix the coconut milk and red curry paste until well combined.
- Add Ingredients: Place the shrimp, sliced bell pepper, and pineapple chunks in the crockpot. Pour the curry mixture over them, then add fish sauce and lime juice. Stir gently to combine.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, until the shrimp are cooked through and tender.
- Cook the Rice: About 20 minutes before serving, prepare the jasmine rice according to package instructions.
- Serve: Fluff the rice and serve it alongside the curry shrimp. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra pop of flavor.
Herb-Infused Clam Chowder
This clam chowder is a delightful blend of fresh clams, tender potatoes, and aromatic herbs, making it a creamy and comforting choice for any gathering. The flavors meld beautifully together, offering a warm and inviting taste that’s perfect for a Memorial Day celebration.
With minimal prep time, this recipe is easy to throw together in a crockpot, allowing you to focus on enjoying the day. The herb-infused broth elevates the chowder, giving it a unique twist that your guests will love.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh clams, cleaned and shelled
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until translucent.
- Add the Potatoes: Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the crockpot, then add the diced potatoes and clams.
- Mix the Broth: Pour the vegetable broth into the crockpot and stir in the thyme and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
- Add Cream: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and let it heat through.
- Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Final Thoughts
Memorial Day should be about making memories, not stressing over the stove. With these easy seafood crockpot recipes, you can enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal with minimal effort—leaving you free to focus on what really matters: good company, sunshine, and the start of summer. Whether you go for a creamy seafood pasta, a spicy Low Country boil, or something in between, these dishes prove that slow cooking is the secret to a stress-free (and delicious) holiday. So fire up that crockpot, kick back, and let it do the work while you savor every bite. Happy Memorial Day!
