Save Money by Cooking Delicious Seafood Dishes with Frozen Seafood

Seafood often feels like a luxury reserved for special occasions or coastal trips. Fresh seafood can be expensive and sometimes hard to find inland. But frozen seafood offers a practical, budget-friendly way to enjoy coastal flavors anytime. It keeps well, is easy to store, and can be just as tasty when cooked properly. This post explores five delicious dishes made with frozen seafood that bring the coast to your kitchen without breaking the bank.

Angel Hair Pasta with Shrimp, Mussels and Tomatoes.

Angel Hair Pasta with Frozen Shrimp, Mussels, and Tomatoes.

Pasta with shrimp and mussels is a coastal favorite that works well with frozen seafood. This insanely easy dish is made with frozen shrimp (whole shrimp look fancy and are sold cheaply at places like Walmart and Wild Fork) and mussels (sold cheaply at Walmart and Aldi). The shrimp and mussels are thawed and cleaned, and quickly cooked. The juices are combined with clam juices to cook cherry tomatoes and aromatics, and the angel hair pasta is tossed in. Top with fresh herbs and serve with a splash of wine.

Find the complete recipe:

How to Cook with Frozen Seafood: Pasta with Shrimp, Mussels, and Tomatoes.

Spaghetti with Frozen Clams

Ingredients for Spaghetti with Frozen Clams.

Spaghetti with clams is a classic Italian dish that feels fresh and light. Using frozen clams makes it accessible year-round. Start by thawing the clams gently under cold water. Sauté garlic and chili flakes in olive oil, then add the clams and a splash of white wine. Let the clams open and release their juices. Toss in cooked spaghetti and fresh parsley for a simple, elegant meal.

Find the complete recipe and instructions here:

Can You Make Delicious Spaghetti with Clam Sauce Using Frozen Clams?

Frozen clams retain their briny flavor and cook quickly, making this dish a fast weeknight option. Pair it with a crisp salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Cioppino with Frozen Mixed Seafood

Cioppino is a hearty seafood stew originating from San Francisco, traditionally made with fresh catch. Frozen mixed seafood blends—usually including shrimp, scallops, mussels, and fish—work perfectly here. The key is to add the seafood at the right time so it cooks evenly without becoming rubbery.

Cippino made with frozen mixed seafood (the bag for this photo cost $4)!

Start by simmering tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs in a pot. Add the frozen seafood and cook until just tender. Serve with toasted sourdough for dipping. This dish is warming, filling, and packed with ocean flavors without the high price tag of fresh seafood.

Find complete recipe and instructions here:

How to Cook with Frozen Mixed Seafood: Seafood Soups on a Budget

Baked Whole Frozen Mackerel

Mackerel is an oily fish rich in omega-3s and flavor. Baking the whole makerel yields a show-stopping dish with a crispy, golden crust while keeping the inside moist. Thaw and prepare frozen makeral. Prepare with fresh herbs, lemon, and oil. Bake it a hot oven until just done.

Whole baked makerel (frozen) with dill and lemon.

Serve with tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon and a side of fries or salad. This dish is a great way to enjoy fish without complicated preparation, and frozen mackerel is often more affordable than fresh.

Find the complete recipe and instructions here:

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Fried Cod and Chips

Fried cod and chips is a beloved comfort food classic. Frozen cod fillets are ideal for this dish because they hold up well during frying. These cod fillets can be found cheaply at Walmart, Aldi, Wild Fork, and many other groceries. Thaw the fillets, then dip them in a beer batter or seasoned flour before frying until golden. Serve with thick-cut fries, malt vinegar, and a side of coleslaw or peas. This dish brings the taste of the coast to your table with minimal effort and cost.

Hot Fish and Chips!

Find the complete recipe and instructions here:

Fish and Chips: Classic Seafood on a Budget

(I cooked this recipe with barramundi for the post because I found it cheaply, but you can reliably find inexpensive cod anytime.)

Cook With Frozen Seafood and Wow Your Family and Friends!

Frozen seafood offers a convenient and affordable way to enjoy coastal dishes at home. These recipes show that you don’t need fresh catch to create meals full of flavor and texture. With simple preparation and quality frozen ingredients, you can bring the taste of the sea to your kitchen any day of the week.