Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe
If you’re looking for a show-stopping seafood dish, this Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is the perfect recipe. With a creamy crab filling, juicy shrimp topping, and cheesy golden crust, this dish brings gourmet flavor to your dinner table in under an hour.
Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 4 | Medium |
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Crab Filling
- 1 cup lump crab meat (fresh or canned, drained)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or seafood seasoning)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
For the Shrimp Topping
- 8–10 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Tools You’ll Need
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sharp knife | To cut salmon pockets |
| Mixing bowls | For preparing filling |
| Skillet or pan | To sauté shrimp |
| Baking dish | To bake salmon |
| Spoon or spatula | For stuffing the salmon |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice a pocket lengthwise into each salmon fillet without cutting all the way through.
- Rub salmon with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Crab Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine crab meat, cream cheese, mayo, mozzarella, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and parsley.
- Mix until creamy and well combined.
Step 3: Stuff the Salmon
- Spoon the crab filling into the salmon pockets.
- Place stuffed salmon fillets into a greased baking dish.
Step 4: Bake the Salmon
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until salmon is flaky and cooked through.
- For a golden top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp Topping
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Toss in shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink.
- Place shrimp on top of the baked salmon.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ~420 | 38g | 5g | 26g | 1g |
(Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.)
Tips for the Best Stuffed Salmon
- Use fresh lump crab meat for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook salmon — it should be flaky but still moist.
- Add spinach or chopped green onions to the crab filling for extra texture.
- Pair with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
FAQs
Can I use imitation crab instead of real crab?
Yes, imitation crab can be used, but fresh or lump crab will give the best flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salmon with stuffing up to 1 day ahead. Store covered in the fridge, then bake when ready.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I grill stuffed salmon instead of baking?
Yes! Wrap the salmon in foil and grill over medium heat for 20–25 minutes.
What can I serve with stuffed salmon?
It pairs well with roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a light green salad.
Final Thoughts
This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a restaurant-worthy recipe that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. Creamy crab filling, juicy shrimp topping, and flaky salmon come together in a dish that’s perfect for special occasions, holidays, or an indulgent weeknight dinner.
