This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is the ultimate indulgence for seafood lovers. Juicy, flaky salmon is filled with a decadent stuffing of jumbo lump crab, seasoned shrimp, and creamy cheese, creating a dish that’s both rich and satisfying. The balance of flavors—bright lemon, aromatic garlic, and a touch of Old Bay seasoning—enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood, making every bite an explosion of taste.
Not only is this dish packed with protein and healthy fats, but it’s also surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.
Full Recipe:
- 2 large (16 oz) wild-caught salmon filets
- 1 (8 oz) cup jumbo lump crab
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tsp cardamom
- 1 tsp Badia complete seasoning
- 1 tsp adobo seasoning
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp paprika (separated)
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mince garlic, and chop parsley and green onions. Season shrimp with salt and pepper and set aside.
- Heat 1 tbsp butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and 1 tsp of paprika, stirring for 30 seconds to avoid burning. Add shrimp and cook for about 3 minutes until lightly browned. Remove from pan and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, parsley, green onions, and lemon juice until smooth. Gently fold in lump crab, shrimp, mozzarella, Parmesan, and all seasonings (except Old Bay). Do not overmix.
- Season both salmon filets with salt, pepper, and Old Bay. Lay one filet in an oven-safe pan and spread the stuffing evenly over it. Place the second filet on top, sandwiching the stuffing. Reserve extra stuffing for topping later.
- Add 1 tbsp butter on top of the salmon and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove from oven, spread the remaining stuffing on top, and broil for an additional 5 minutes for a golden finish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 460 kcal | Servings: 4
Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon – A Decadent Seafood Delight
If you’re a seafood lover looking to elevate your home cooking game, Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a must-try recipe. This dish combines rich, flaky salmon with a creamy, savory stuffing made of jumbo lump crab and shrimp, creating an irresistible blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing a fancy dinner for guests or treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with surprisingly simple steps.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best things about this dish is how it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. Salmon is well known for its high protein content and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, while the shrimp and crab stuffing add extra layers of flavor and richness. The addition of cream cheese and Parmesan creates a creamy, velvety filling that contrasts beautifully with the tender, flaky salmon.
This recipe also stands out because of its versatility. You can customize the seasonings, adjust the level of spice, or even add extra ingredients like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for an added twist. The result is always an impressive dish that looks and tastes like something straight out of a high-end seafood restaurant.
The Perfect Occasion for Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
This dish is perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night, celebrating a special event, or simply craving a luxurious meal, this stuffed salmon will not disappoint. It pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making it easy to customize based on the occasion.
For an elegant dinner, serve it with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus. If you’re aiming for a lighter meal, pair it with a fresh garden salad and a side of quinoa. You can even prepare it as a holiday main course, replacing the traditional turkey or beef with a show-stopping seafood centerpiece.
The Secret to Perfectly Stuffed Salmon
The key to making this dish truly exceptional lies in the stuffing and cooking technique. Using fresh, high-quality seafood is essential to achieving the best flavor. When selecting your crab, opt for jumbo lump crab meat, which has a naturally sweet and delicate taste. Fresh shrimp, seasoned and lightly sautéed, brings a juicy, succulent texture to the filling.
Another important factor is the way the salmon is prepared. Choosing thick-cut salmon filets ensures that they hold up well to the stuffing. The best method is to slice a pocket into each filet, rather than cutting all the way through, allowing the filling to stay securely inside during baking.
Baking at the right temperature also plays a crucial role. Cooking the salmon at 350°F ensures that it remains tender and moist while allowing the stuffing to meld perfectly with the fish. A quick broil at the end adds a beautiful golden-brown crust, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal and adding a touch of crispiness to the top layer.
Pairing Suggestions – What to Serve with Stuffed Salmon
A well-rounded meal is all about the perfect side dishes. Since this recipe is rich and flavorful, it’s best to pair it with sides that complement its boldness without overpowering it.
- Garlic Butter Asparagus – The light, earthy taste of asparagus balances the richness of the stuffed salmon. A quick sauté in garlic butter adds depth without being too heavy.
- Lemon Herb Rice – A fluffy, citrus-infused rice dish is an excellent accompaniment. The bright lemon flavor enhances the seafood’s natural sweetness.
- Mashed Potatoes – For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting, velvety contrast to the flaky salmon.
- Sautéed Spinach or Kale – A light and nutritious side of sautéed greens brings a fresh, slightly bitter element that cuts through the richness of the stuffing.
- Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls – A slice of warm, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce or juices from the salmon.
Tips for Success
To make sure your stuffed salmon turns out perfect every time, here are a few expert tips:
- Use fresh seafood whenever possible. Fresh crab and shrimp will give the best flavor and texture, but if using frozen seafood, make sure to thaw and drain it well.
- Don’t overmix the stuffing. Gently folding the ingredients together keeps the filling light and airy rather than dense.
- Season generously. Since salmon has a naturally mild flavor, don’t be afraid to use a good amount of seasoning to enhance its taste. Old Bay seasoning, paprika, and garlic are key components of this dish.
- Avoid overcooking. Salmon is best when it remains moist and flaky. Overcooking can cause it to become dry, so keep an eye on it during the baking process.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
Aside from being incredibly delicious, Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon also has numerous health benefits.
- Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Salmon is one of the best sources of omega-3s, which support heart and brain health.
- High in Protein – This dish is packed with protein from the salmon, shrimp, and crab, making it a satisfying meal that helps with muscle growth and repair.
- Loaded with Essential Vitamins and Minerals – Ingredients like garlic, parsley, and lemon juice add not only flavor but also a dose of antioxidants, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients.
- Low in Carbohydrates – For those following a low-carb or keto diet, this recipe is an excellent choice, as it contains minimal carbohydrates while being packed with flavor and healthy fats.
A Crowd-Pleasing Dish for All Skill Levels
Even if you’re not an experienced home cook, this recipe is surprisingly easy to execute. The key steps—making the stuffing, seasoning the salmon, and baking it—are all straightforward. Plus, the final result looks incredibly impressive, making it a great choice for entertaining.
One of the best things about this recipe is how well it adapts to different cooking styles. If you prefer grilling over baking, you can wrap the stuffed salmon in foil and cook it over medium heat for a smoky twist. If you love experimenting with flavors, try adding a spicy kick with a dash of Cajun seasoning or a touch of sweetness with a drizzle of honey glaze.
Conclusion
Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is more than just a meal—it’s a gourmet experience that brings the best flavors of the ocean to your table. This dish’s combination of flaky salmon, rich and creamy stuffing, and aromatic seasonings makes it a showstopper that will impress anyone who tries it.
Perfect for both special occasions and weeknight indulgence, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy high-quality seafood in the comfort of your own home. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless customization options, it’s a dish that you’ll want to make again and again.