Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe

If you’ve ever wished you could bottle up all the flavors of a waterfront seafood restaurant and serve them right in your own kitchen, Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is your happy answer. Each bite is a perfect marriage of tender, buttery salmon and a rich, creamy seafood stuffing brimming with crab, shrimp, herbs, and cheese. It’s elegant enough for a special dinner but simple enough for any night you feel like treating yourself to something truly memorable.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon comes together with humble, easy-to-find ingredients that each play a starring role in the final result. Every single one brings out the flavor, color, and texture that makes this stuffed salmon so irresistible.

• Salmon Fillets: Choose four thick, fresh fillets to make sure you have plenty of room for the delicious stuffing.
• Cooked Shrimp (chopped): Adds sweet, delicate seafood flavor and a bit of juicy texture to the filling.
• Lump Crab Meat: Go for real lump crab if you can—it’s truly the star of the stuffing and worth the splurge.
• Cream Cheese (softened): This is what gives the stuffing its ultra-creamy, luscious richness and helps bind everything together.
• Mayonnaise: Creates a light, silky consistency without overpowering seafood flavors.
• Lemon Juice: A splash of brightness that balances the richness and wakes up the entire dish.
• Old Bay Seasoning: The classic seafood spice; a must for that signature savory kick.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle piquancy that lifts the flavors in the filling.
• Garlic (minced): Just one clove brings aromatic depth without stealing the show.
• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle in freshness and subtle crunch throughout the stuffing.
• Shredded Parmesan Cheese: For that irresistible salty richness and a lovely golden finish as it bakes.
• Salt and Pepper: Season the salmon simply to enhance every layer of flavor within.
• Olive Oil: Keeps the salmon moist in the oven and encourages a little extra browning on top.

How to Make Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood Stuffing

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, lump crab, cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, green onions, and parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the mixture is thoroughly combined and you have a creamy, chunky filling loaded with seafood in every bite. This step guarantees that each stuffed fillet will be bursting with flavor.

Step 2: Create the Salmon Pockets

Use a sharp knife to carefully cut a horizontal pocket into the thickest part of each salmon fillet. Don’t slice all the way through—just enough to create a roomy “envelope” for the filling. This technique lets the Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon hold onto that luscious stuffing without spilling out during baking.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

Generously sprinkle the inside and outside of each salmon fillet with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the fish and balances the richness of the stuffing.

Step 4: Stuff the Salmon

Spoon the seafood mixture evenly into each pocket, gently packing it in with a small spoon or your fingers. Be sure to get a good amount in each fillet so you hit every forkful with Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon goodness!

Step 5: Drizzle and Bake

Arrange the stuffed salmon fillets on a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet. Drizzle the tops with olive oil—this helps the salmon stay moist and develops beautiful color as it bakes. Place the tray in a preheated 375°F oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily and the stuffing is bubbly and slightly golden on top.

How to Serve Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

Garnishes

Finish your platter with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing, a scatter of chopped green onions, or even a few sprigs of fresh dill. These simple garnishes add pop and freshness that complement every bite of Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon.

Side Dishes

This dish loves classic seafood sides—think fluffy jasmine rice, buttery mashed potatoes, garlicky sautéed spinach, or a medley of roasted spring vegetables. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette keeps things balanced and lets the stuffed salmon shine.

Creative Ways to Present

Plate each fillet over a bed of wild rice or herbed couscous for a restaurant-style look. You can also serve Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon on individual wooden planks for a rustic feel or top with a drizzle of lemony beurre blanc for something extra luxurious. It’s a stunner either way!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The stuffing holds up beautifully and the flavors continue to meld, making day-after portions almost as good as the first night.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled but unbaked stuffed salmon for up to one month. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in a freezer bag. Thaw fully in the fridge before baking as usual for a quick but memorable dinner.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a 300°F oven, covered with foil, until heated through. This preserves the texture of the salmon and keeps the seafood stuffing moist and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use canned crab instead of lump crab meat?

Absolutely! While fresh lump crab is luxurious, canned crab works just fine for Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon. Just be sure to drain it well and pick through for any bits of shell before adding it to the mixture.

What if I only have frozen shrimp?

No problem at all—just thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry with paper towels before chopping and adding them to your stuffing. You’ll get the same sweet, juicy bite in every forkful.

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The best indicator is when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the stuffing is hot and slightly golden on top. An instant-read thermometer should register 145°F in the thickest part for perfectly moist fish.

Can I make the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes! The seafood stuffing can be prepared a day ahead and kept in the refrigerator. When it’s time to cook, simply stuff the salmon and bake as directed—so convenient for entertaining or busy nights.

Is Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon suitable for meal prep?

It’s fantastic for meal prep. Assemble everything in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake, or freeze for later. Just be sure to store components separately for best results if prepping days ahead.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving the ultimate in homemade seafood comfort, Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is just waiting to dazzle you. It’s easy, impressive, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this show-stopping recipe—you’ll be coming back for seconds, I promise!

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