When it comes to seafood, there’s nothing quite like a rich and creamy sauce to elevate your dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re looking for a classic cocktail sauce or something more adventurous, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 creamy seafood sauce recipes. From spicy Cajun dips to tangy tartars and everything in between, these sauces are sure to add flavor and flair to any seafood dish.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of creamy seafood sauces, exploring different flavors and techniques to help you create the perfect accompaniment for your favorite seafood dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Garlic Butter Seafood Sauce
Elevate your seafood dishes with this rich and flavorful garlic butter sauce, perfect for shrimp, scallops, or lobster.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and white wine (if using). Stir to combine.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the Dijon mustard.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Lemon Dill Seafood Sauce
This creamy sauce is a perfect accompaniment to seafood, whether you’re serving it with fish, shrimp, scallops, or mussels. With its tangy lemon flavor and fresh dill taste, this sauce is sure to elevate your meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in the lemon juice, dill, and Dijon mustard.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Cajun Seafood Dipping Sauce
This tangy and spicy sauce is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite seafood dishes, from shrimp cocktail to fish sticks. With its bold flavors of cayenne pepper and paprika, this dipping sauce will elevate any meal to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: None (prepare in advance)
Classic Cocktail Seafood Sauce
Elevate your seafood dishes with this timeless and tangy sauce, perfect for shrimp, scallops, or fish. This classic cocktail sauce recipe is a staple for any seafood lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together ketchup, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a condiment.
Rich Lobster Bisque Sauce
Rich Lobster Bisque Sauce Recipe
Transform any meal into a luxurious affair with this decadent lobster bisque sauce. Made with succulent lobster, aromatic spices, and creamy richness, it’s the perfect addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cognac (optional)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup fish stock (or chicken stock)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. If using cognac, add it to the pan and ignite (carefully!). Let the flames burn out before proceeding.
5. Add lobster meat, heavy cream, fish stock, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Strain bisque through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tangy Tartar Seafood Sauce
A zesty and refreshing seafood sauce perfect for dipping your favorite shellfish or serving as a marinade for grilled fish.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, lemon juice, mustard, parsley, and dill until smooth.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and ginger (if using).
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None
Coconut Curry Seafood Sauce
This creamy and aromatic sauce is perfect for seafood lovers! Elevate your favorite seafood dishes with this unique blend of coconut, curry, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic, ginger, and cayenne pepper (if using) and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Stir in the curry powder and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the coconut cream and whisk until smooth.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Seafood Sauce
Elevate your seafood dishes with this smoky and tangy sauce, infused with the rich flavors of chipotle peppers. This spicy condiment is perfect for topping shrimp, scallops, fish, or even grilled vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon smoky chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, lime juice, chipotle pepper, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply prepare the sauce ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Herbed White Wine Seafood Sauce
Elevate your seafood dishes with this aromatic and flavorful sauce, perfect for serving over fish, shrimp, or scallops. This herby white wine sauce is quick to prepare and packed with fresh flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Zesty Mango Lime Seafood Sauce
Elevate your seafood dishes with this vibrant and flavorful sauce that combines the sweetness of mango with the tanginess of lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mango, lime juice, garlic, and ginger.
2. Blend until smooth, then slowly add olive oil while continuing to blend.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro, if using.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None – this sauce is ready to use as is!
Use this zesty mango lime seafood sauce on grilled fish, shrimp, or scallops for a tropical twist on your favorite seafood dishes.
Roasted Red Pepper Seafood Sauce
Elevate your seafood dishes with this vibrant and flavorful sauce featuring roasted red peppers, garlic, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 red bell peppers
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup fish stock or water
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove peppers from oven and let cool. Peel off skin, discarding it, and chop peppers into rough pieces.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted peppers, garlic, olive oil, white wine (if using), fish stock or water, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting time)
Sweet Chili Seafood Dipping Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and spicy dipping sauce, perfect for grilled shrimp, scallops, or fish sticks. This flavorful condiment combines the tanginess of chili peppers with the sweetness of honey and a hint of smokiness from smoked paprika.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, honey, sweet chili sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Whisk until smooth, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Let cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Aioli Seafood Sauce
Elevate your seafood dishes with this creamy and flavorful sauce, perfect for dipping or serving over fish, shrimp, or scallops. This garlic aioli seafood sauce is a simple yet impressive addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup seafood broth (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. If desired, add seafood broth and stir until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None, this sauce is a quick and easy make-ahead option!
Creamy Avocado Seafood Sauce
Elevate your seafood dishes with this rich and creamy sauce that combines the freshness of avocado with the savory flavors of seafood.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup seafood broth (or white wine)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mashed avocado, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat the seafood broth (or white wine) in a small saucepan over medium heat.
3. Gradually add the blended avocado mixture to the warm liquid, whisking constantly.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in heavy cream and chopped parsley.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite seafood dishes, such as grilled shrimp or cod.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Tomato Basil Seafood Sauce
This vibrant sauce is a perfect accompaniment to pasta, seafood, or even pizza. With its bold tomato flavor and fresh basil notes, it’s sure to elevate any dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), rinsed and patted dry
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in basil leaves, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Add mixed seafood and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through.
6. Simmer the sauce for 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mustard Dill Seafood Sauce
Elevate your seafood dishes with this tangy and flavorful Mustard Dill Seafood Sauce! With its perfect balance of spices, herbs, and a hint of sweetness, this condiment is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and whole-grain mustard until smooth.
2. Stir in the chopped dill, lemon juice, and honey until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Horseradish Cream Seafood Sauce
Add a zesty twist to your seafood dishes with this creamy and spicy sauce. Made with fresh horseradish, cream, and herbs, this condiment is perfect for serving alongside grilled fish, shrimp, or scallops.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the cream, horseradish, mustard, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None required! This sauce is ready in just a few minutes.
Pesto Parmesan Seafood Sauce
Elevate your seafood dishes with this creamy and flavorful sauce, combining the richness of parmesan cheese and the zest of pesto.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the pesto, parmesan cheese, and lemon juice.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Elevate your seafood dishes with these 18 creamy sauce recipes! From classic cocktail sauce to tangy tartar and spicy Cajun dipping sauces, there’s something for every taste. Try rich lobster bisque or coconut curry for a flavorful twist. If you’re looking for something lighter, opt for herbed white wine or zesty mango lime. These creamy seafood sauces are perfect for shrimp, scallops, fish, and more. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these delicious and easy-to-make recipes!
