Pressure Cooker Seafood Stew Recipe

There’s something so comforting about a big bowl of stew when the weather turns cool. And when I discovered how easy it is to make Pressure Cooker Seafood Stew, I knew it was going to be a regular at our table. It’s packed with shrimp, mussels, and tender veggies, all in a rich tomato broth that tastes like it simmered for hours—but it’s ready in under an hour. If you love quick dinners that feel special, this is one to keep on repeat. You’ll find more cozy ideas like this in my Pressure Cooker Recipes collection.

When I first tested this stew, I served it alongside crusty bread, and let me tell you—my kids were dipping and scooping until the pot was completely wiped clean. If you enjoy simple one-pot comfort meals, you might also love this Slow Cooker Minestrone Soup.

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What You’ll Need

This stew uses everyday ingredients with just a few seafood favorites. I like to keep frozen shrimp and mussels on hand for recipes like this—they thaw quickly and taste so fresh once cooked.

• Shrimp – Peeled and deveined.
• Mussels – Fresh or frozen, cleaned.
• White fish (like cod or halibut) – Cut into chunks.
• Squid rings (optional) – For a little variety.
• Carrots – Sliced for sweetness.
• Celery – Adds great flavor to the broth.
• Onion & garlic – The flavor base; I always use fresh garlic here.
• Canned diced tomatoes – A pantry staple that gives richness.
• Seafood stock or chicken broth – I prefer seafood stock if I have it.
• Olive oil – For sautéing.
• Italian seasoning, paprika, salt & pepper – To season the broth.
• Fresh parsley – A bright finish.

A good pressure cooker makes the job quick and easy. My Instant Pot works beautifully here—just like when I make Instant Pot BBQ Chicken.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Pressure Cooker Seafood Stew

I’ve learned that layering the steps in the right order keeps the seafood tender and the broth flavorful. Here’s how I do it:

Step 1 — Sauté the base

Heat olive oil in your pressure cooker on Sauté mode. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened and fragrant. (Don’t rush this—this is where the flavor starts!)

Step 2 — Build the broth

Stir in diced tomatoes, stock, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir and scrape the bottom so nothing sticks.

Step 3 — Pressure cook the veggies

Lock the lid and cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes. Quick release the steam—your veggies should be tender but not mushy.

Step 4 — Add the seafood

Carefully stir in shrimp, mussels, fish, and squid if using. Close the lid (but don’t pressure cook again). Just let the residual heat steam the seafood for about 5–7 minutes until everything is opaque and cooked through.

Step 5 — Finish & serve

Taste the broth, adjust seasoning if needed, and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping. For pasta lovers, you could even spoon it over noodles—similar to how I enjoy Penne Arrabbiata.

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Pro Tips & Easy Swaps

• Use frozen shrimp and mussels—just thaw before adding.
• If you don’t have seafood stock, chicken broth works fine.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat.
• Swap parsley for fresh basil or dill for a twist.
• A splash of white wine in the broth adds depth.
• Don’t overcook seafood—use the residual heat method.
• Add potatoes if you want a heartier stew.
• Leftovers reheat best on the stovetop, not in the microwave.

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Serving Ideas & Variations

I usually serve this stew with a loaf of warm bread and a simple salad. It’s also amazing over rice or pasta when you want something extra filling.

• With crusty bread for dipping.
• Over rice for a hearty meal.
• Over spaghetti for a “seafood pasta night.”
• With a side salad of greens and lemon.
• Add chili flakes for a spicy version.
• Stir in a handful of spinach before serving for extra veggies.

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Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

• Overcooking seafood – Add it last and let residual heat cook it gently.
• Forgetting to deglaze – Always scrape the pot after sautéing to avoid a burn warning.
• Using only water for broth – Stock gives much more flavor.
• Adding seafood too early – It will turn rubbery; wait until the end.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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You’ll Also Love

If you enjoy this hearty stew, try these other comforting pressure cooker recipes:

• Pressure Cooker Chicken Enchiladas – cheesy and full of flavor.
• Pressure Cooker Pork Chops – tender, saucy, and perfect for weeknights.
• Pressure Cooker Lentil Soup – cozy, protein-packed, and budget-friendly.

You’ll find even more cozy ideas in my Pressure Cooker Recipes collection.