If you are craving an elegant seafood dinner that feels both luxurious and comforting, this Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe is an absolute must-try. Each forkful brings together perfectly flaky, tender salmon enveloping a creamy, flavorful blend of crab and shrimp, enhanced with lemon, herbs, and just a hint of Old Bay seasoning. Whether it’s a special occasion or a weeknight treat, this dish brings a touch of indulgence to your table without feeling fussy or complicated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, simple ingredients is the key to making this recipe shine. Each element plays a special role: the seafood adds the star flavors, the cream cheese and mayonnaise lend creaminess, and the herbs and spices inject bright, zesty notes to keep everything balanced and irresistible.
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each): Choose firm, fresh fillets for the best texture and flavor.
- ½ cup cooked shrimp, chopped: Adds a sweet, slightly briny bite to the stuffing.
- ½ cup lump crab meat: The delicate crab brings a luxurious texture without overpowering the dish.
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened: Creates a creamy base that binds the seafood mixture.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds richness and helps keep the stuffing moist.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Provides a subtle tang that lifts all the flavors.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the stuffing with wonderful aroma and depth.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and complements the seafood perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: A classic seafood spice blend that adds warmth and complexity.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note and a pop of color.
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs: Gives just enough texture to the filling and can be sprinkled on top for crunch.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Drizzled over the fillets before baking for a golden finish.
- Lemon wedges for serving: Adds a fresh zing when squeezed over the finished dish.
How to Make Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing Mixture
Start by combining all the stuffing ingredients in a medium bowl. This includes your chopped shrimp, crab meat, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, parsley, and panko breadcrumbs. Stir everything together until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking, as this mix will bring all the luscious flavor right inside the salmon pockets.
Step 2: Create Pockets in the Salmon Fillets
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a lengthwise pocket into each salmon fillet. The trick is to cut just enough to open a pocket without slicing all the way through so the stuffing stays neatly inside while baking. This step is what transforms the dish from a simple salmon entree to a sophisticated masterpiece bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Stuff the Salmon
Generously spoon the crab and shrimp filling into each salmon pocket. Don’t be shy—make sure each fillet gets a good amount of stuffing to enjoy every bite with the perfect seafood balance. Once stuffed, place the fillets in a lightly greased baking dish, ready for their final transformation.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Drizzle the olive oil over the stuffed fillets to help them develop a beautiful golden hue and keep the salmon moist. Bake everything at 375°F (190°C) for about 18 to 20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the stuffing is set. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is utterly irresistible.
How to Serve Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Serving your Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe with a few fresh lemon wedges is the perfect finishing touch. A squeeze of lemon brightens the richness of the dish, while a sprinkle of additional chopped parsley can add a fresh, inviting pop of color that really makes the plate sing.
Side Dishes
This savory seafood entree pairs beautifully with light sides like steamed rice or a crisp green salad. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, also make fantastic partners, adding texture and seasonal flavors to round out your meal effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try plating each stuffed salmon fillet atop a bed of sautéed spinach or creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant look that will wow your guests. Alternatively, serve bars of lemon butter on the side to customize each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. This makes a handy, indulgent lunch option that reheats well and still feels fresh and satisfying.
Freezing
While the dish tastes best fresh, you can freeze unbaked stuffed fillets by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then placing them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed for a convenient make-ahead meal.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 300°F to keep the salmon tender and to prevent the stuffing from drying out. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the texture and flavor at their best.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp and crab meat?
Absolutely, just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before mixing into the stuffing. This prevents a watery filling and keeps your flavors concentrated.
What if I don’t have Old Bay seasoning?
You can easily substitute with a mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, cayenne, and garlic powder for a similar, flavorful seafood seasoning blend.
Is it okay to prepare the stuffing ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the seafood stuffing up to a day in advance, keep it refrigerated, and stuff the fillets right before baking.
Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?
While salmon’s flavor and texture work perfectly, you could try this recipe with thicker white fish fillets like cod or halibut, keeping in mind the cooking time might vary.
How do I make the topping extra crispy?
Sprinkle some extra panko breadcrumbs on top of the stuffed salmon before baking, then a light drizzle of olive oil to achieve a golden, satisfying crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe is a delightful way to elevate your seafood nights without fuss or overwhelm. It’s comforting yet fancy, simple yet packed with layers of flavor that everyone will love. Give it a try soon and enjoy the feeling of bringing something truly special and delicious to your own table.
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Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon recipe features tender salmon fillets filled with a savory mixture of cooked shrimp, lump crab meat, and creamy seasonings. Baked to perfection, this dish combines the rich flavors of seafood with a hint of lemon and Old Bay seasoning, making it a perfect elegant yet easy-to-make main course for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Seafood and Fish
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- ½ cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- ½ cup lump crab meat
Stuffing Mixture
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Baking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the salmon from sticking during baking.
- Make the Seafood Stuffing: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked shrimp, lump crab meat, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, fresh parsley, and panko breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to your taste preferences.
- Prepare the Salmon Fillets: With a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket lengthwise into each salmon fillet, making sure not to slice all the way through, creating space for the stuffing.
- Stuff the Salmon: Evenly spoon the seafood mixture into each salmon pocket, filling them generously but neatly to ensure even cooking.
- Arrange and Season: Place the stuffed salmon fillets into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the fillets to keep them moist and enhance flavor.
- Bake the Salmon: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork. The stuffing should be hot and slightly browned on top.
- Serve: Serve the stuffed salmon hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Notes
- For added texture and crunch, sprinkle extra panko breadcrumbs on top of the stuffed salmon before baking.
- This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh light salad for a complete meal.
- Make sure not to overfill the salmon pockets to avoid stuffing spilling out during baking.
- If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, add a little lemon zest to the stuffing mixture.
