Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon | Easy Gourmet Seafood Recipe

Ever wondered how to take salmon to the next level? This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon recipe is your answer! A savory seafood duo wrapped in flaky, tender salmon and kissed with golden-baked perfection—this dish is the kind of restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. Whether it’s a romantic dinner, holiday feast, or a weekend splurge, this cheesy and creamy stuffed salmon delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Prepare to wow your guests and yourself!

Ingredients

• For the Stuffing:
  • 4 oz cooked shrimp, finely chopped
  • 4 oz lump crab meat
  • 2 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
  • 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 green onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Salmon:
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make That Creamy Seafood Stuffing

1. In a large bowl, combine chopped shrimp, lump crab, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, green onion, garlic, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning.
2. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then mix thoroughly until creamy and well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Prep the Salmon Pockets

1. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a deep slit lengthwise down the top of each salmon fillet. Be cautious not to cut all the way through—think of creating a “pocket.”
2. Pat the salmon dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick better.

Step 3: Stuff & Season Like a Pro

1. Spoon the seafood stuffing generously into each salmon pocket, mounding it slightly if needed.
2. Drizzle each fillet with olive oil, then sprinkle with paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Bake Til Juicy & Golden

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the stuffed fillets on a parchment-lined baking dish and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the top is golden and slightly bubbly.

Variations

• Spicy Cajun Version: Add diced jalapeños and a sprinkle of Cajun spice to the stuffing for heat.
• Low-Carb Keto Option: Swap breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
• Mediterranean Twist: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and chopped spinach for a bold flavor.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Top with shredded mozzarella or parmesan during the last 5 minutes of baking for extra melty goodness.

Cooking Note

• Use fresh salmon fillets whenever possible—they hold shape better and have richer flavor.
• If your stuffing feels too dry, add an extra tablespoon of mayo or a splash of lemon juice.
• Be careful not to overbake! Salmon dries out quickly; check at 18 minutes and adjust as needed.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp garden salad. For a lighter option, try garlic sautéed spinach or cauliflower mash. Don’t forget the lemon wedges on the side for a fresh zing and a glass of white wine to elevate the seafood experience. Serve on a white plate to highlight the golden topping—restaurant vibes right at your table!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a 300°F oven for 10–12 minutes or microwave on low to avoid drying it out. You can also prep the stuffing a day ahead and refrigerate it—just fill and bake when ready to serve.

Timing

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

20 minutes

Total Time:

35 minutes

Yield:

4 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories:

~480

Protein:

~42g

Sodium:

~610mg

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Looking to lighten things up? Try low-fat cream cheese and use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. For a lower sodium version, omit the Old Bay seasoning and use herbs like dill, chives, or thyme instead. You can also bake the salmon on a bed of zucchini ribbons or spinach for an added veggie boost!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overstuffing the fillet: While generous portions are tempting, too much filling can spill out—use just enough to close the pocket.
• Undercooked stuffing: Make sure your shrimp is fully cooked before mixing—this isn’t the place for raw seafood.
• Cutting all the way through the salmon: Slice slowly and carefully—you’re creating a pocket, not two pieces.
• Using cold cream cheese: Always soften your cream cheese for smooth blending—it makes a big difference in texture.

Conclusion

This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is more than a meal—it’s an experience. Elegant yet easy, rich but balanced, this recipe brings a bit of luxury to any evening. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a special night in, this dish delivers a decadent seafood blend wrapped in perfectly baked salmon. Try it once, and it’ll quickly earn a spot in your favorite go-to dinners.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use canned crab meat?
A: Yes, but make sure to drain it well and gently pick out any shell bits. Lump crab meat is best for texture.

Q2: Can I grill the stuffed salmon instead of baking?
A: Grilling is possible with foil packets, but baking gives better control and more even results for stuffed fillets.

Q3: Is it okay to freeze this dish?
A: Freezing before baking is okay, but not recommended after—it can compromise texture. Thaw in the fridge and bake fresh.

Q4: What wine pairs best with this dish?
A: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy seafood and enhances the richness of the salmon.

Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon | Easy Gourmet Seafood Recipe

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• Author: Caroline Jones
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon recipe is a gourmet seafood experience made easy at home. Perfectly flaky salmon filled with creamy, cheesy crab and shrimp stuffing—baked until golden and juicy. Ideal for special dinners or date nights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)

4 oz cooked shrimp, finely chopped

4 oz lump crab meat

2 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers

2 Tbsp mayonnaise

1 green onion, finely chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp lemon juice

1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

1 Tbsp olive oil

1 tsp paprika

Fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine chopped shrimp, crab, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, mayo, green onion, garlic, lemon juice, Old Bay, salt, and pepper.

2. Cut a deep slit into each salmon fillet to create a pocket.

3. Stuff the salmon fillets generously with the seafood filling.

4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with paprika, salt, and pepper.

5. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes, or until cooked through.

6. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges before serving.

Notes

Use fresh salmon if possible for best flavor and texture.

Make the stuffing a day in advance to save time.

Don’t overbake the salmon to prevent drying out.

Pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a side salad.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed salmon fillet
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 42g
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: stuffed salmon, seafood dinner, crab shrimp salmon, baked salmon, creamy salmon recipe