This elegant yet easy-to-make dish combines tender, flaky salmon with a rich and flavorful crab and shrimp stuffing. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress with its creamy filling, savory seafood flavors, and perfectly baked salmon. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and sophisticated.
📋 Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper , to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter for drizzling)
For the Stuffing:
- ½ cup cooked shrimp , finely chopped
- ½ cup lump crab meat
- 2 oz cream cheese , softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove , minced
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning for a spicier kick)
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
For Topping (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Smoked paprika , for sprinkling
- Extra parsley , for garnish
Serving Suggestions:
- Lemon wedges
- Steamed rice or quinoa
- Roasted vegetables
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper .
- Use a sharp knife to carefully cut a pocket or slit lengthwise into the thickest part of each fillet. Be careful not to cut all the way through—leave the edges intact to hold the stuffing.
Step 3: Make the Seafood Stuffing
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp , lump crab meat , softened cream cheese , mayonnaise , Dijon mustard , lemon juice , minced garlic , Old Bay seasoning , shredded cheese , and chopped parsley . Mix until well combined and creamy.
Step 4: Stuff the Salmon
- Spoon the seafood filling into the pocket of each salmon fillet, pressing gently to pack it in. If you have extra stuffing, mound it on top of the salmon for added flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Salmon
- Place the stuffed salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle lightly with smoked paprika for color and depth of flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes , or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) . The stuffing should be heated through and slightly golden on top.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with extra parsley for freshness.
- Serve with lemon wedges , steamed rice or quinoa , or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Fresh vs. Frozen Seafood: Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp and crab meat. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before chopping.
- Seasoning Variations: Swap Old Bay seasoning for Cajun seasoning if you prefer a spicier kick.
- Cheese Options: Mozzarella adds a melty texture, while Parmesan provides a sharper, nuttier flavor. Choose based on your preference.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days . Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to preserve the salmon’s texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a show-stopping dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. The creamy, seafood-packed stuffing complements the rich, flaky salmon perfectly, while the optional smoked paprika and parsley add a touch of elegance. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this dish is sure to delight. Dive into this flavorful combination of textures and tastes—it’s comfort food meets fine dining!
⏱ Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: ~35 minutes
🍽 Servings:
4 servings
🔥 Calories (Approximate):
~350 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size and toppings)
