There is something truly special about the flavors and textures coming together in Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon – A Decadent Dinner Recipe. This dish brings juicy salmon fillets packed with a luscious, creamy seafood stuffing that combines tender crab and shrimp with the perfect blend of herbs and spices. Whether you want a stunning centerpiece for a dinner party or a cozy night in, this recipe is as impressive as it is delicious, offering a seafood lover’s dream that looks fabulous on any plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, high-quality ingredients that each play a vital role in creating layers of flavor and texture. From the rich cream cheese that holds the stuffing together to the aromatic herbs that brighten the dish, every component is essential for achieving that decadent magic.
- Salmon fillets (4, 6 oz each, skinless): Choose fresh or wild-caught for the best taste and flaky texture.
- Cooked shrimp (1/2 cup, chopped): Adds sweetness and bite, balancing the salmon’s richness.
- Lump crab meat (1/2 cup, shell-picked): The star of the stuffing, offering delicate ocean flavor.
- Cream cheese (1/4 cup, softened): Makes the stuffing irresistibly creamy and silky.
- Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): Adds moisture and a subtle tang to bind the seafood.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Provides a gentle zing that lifts the entire filling.
- Lemon juice (1 teaspoon): Brings bright acidity to balance richness.
- Old Bay seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): Classic seafood spice blend for warmth and depth.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a savory backbone without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Freshly ground for a touch of sharpness.
- Chopped green onions (2 tablespoons): Adds freshness and a mild onion crunch.
- Chopped fresh parsley (1 tablespoon): Bright herbal note that ties together the seafood flavors.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For drizzling, helping to create a beautifully moist exterior.
- Lemon wedges (for serving): Perfect to squeeze over the finished dish for extra zest.
How to Make Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon – A Decadent Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your salmon won’t stick and for easier cleanup later. This little prep step sets you up for success by making sure the cooking environment is just right.
Step 2: Mix the Seafood Stuffing
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, lump crab meat, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, green onions, and fresh parsley. Mix everything gently but thoroughly so each bite bursts with layered flavors without smashing the delicate crab meat. This mixture is the heart and soul of your stuffed salmon.
Step 3: Create the Salmon Pockets
Take each skinless salmon fillet and carefully cut a deep slit lengthwise down the center to form a pocket. Be sure not to cut all the way through—this pocket will hold the seafood stuffing snugly so it stays inside while baking, preserving those glorious textures.
Step 4: Stuff the Salmon Fillets
Generously fill each pocket with your prepared crab and shrimp mixture. Don’t be shy here—this stuffing is the reason this dish shines! Press it in gently to make sure it’s well secured inside the salmon without spilling over.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the stuffed salmon fillets on your lined baking sheet and drizzle the tops with olive oil. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. For an extra golden and slightly crispy top, put your broiler on for 1 to 2 minutes at the very end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
How to Serve Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon – A Decadent Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh lemon wedges are an absolute must—they brighten up each bite with just the right zing of acidity. You can also sprinkle a little extra chopped fresh parsley or green onions over the top to add a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich seafood stuffing beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon – A Decadent Dinner Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts add a smoky crunch, while creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting, buttery balance. Or keep it light and fresh with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple lemon vinaigrette to echo the citrus notes in the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a touch of elegance, plate each stuffed fillet on a smear of lemon garlic aioli or a vibrant herb sauce. You can also serve the salmon on a bed of wild rice or quinoa studded with toasted nuts and herbs to introduce even more texture and flavor contrast. These little presentation tips make your decadent seafood dinner unforgettable and gift-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon – A Decadent Dinner Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Make sure to cool down the salmon completely before sealing to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the stuffed salmon before baking. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place them in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent the salmon from drying out and to retain that luscious stuffed texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen seafood for the stuffing?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp and crab meat completely and pat them dry before mixing so you don’t add extra moisture that could affect the texture of the stuffing.
Is it necessary to use cream cheese in this recipe?
Cream cheese adds creaminess and helps bind the stuffing together, but if you prefer, you could substitute it with ricotta or mascarpone for a slightly different texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have Old Bay seasoning?
You can create a simple substitute by mixing paprika, celery salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of dried thyme. This DIY blend will provide a similar warm and slightly spicy profile.
Can I prepare the stuffing mixture ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the stuffing up to a day in advance and refrigerate it in a covered bowl. This makes assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to bake.
How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh looks opaque throughout. Baking times can vary slightly depending on thickness, so keep an eye on it after the 18-minute mark.
Final Thoughts
This Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon – A Decadent Dinner Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels luxurious yet approachable, perfect for impressing your family or guests without hours in the kitchen. Every bite offers the perfect harmony of tender salmon and rich, flavorful seafood stuffing that will keep you reaching for seconds. I can’t recommend enough that you invite this recipe into your cooking repertoire—you’re going to love how it transforms any meal into a special occasion.
Print
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon – A Decadent Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a decadent and flavorful dinner option featuring tender salmon fillets filled with a creamy seafood mixture. This recipe combines lump crab meat, chopped shrimp, cream cheese, and aromatic seasonings for a rich yet balanced entrée that’s perfect for seafood lovers. Baked to perfection, the salmon is juicy and flaky, complemented by a golden topping when broiled briefly. Ideal for a special occasion or elegant weeknight meal, this dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Ingredients
Salmon and Seafood Filling
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skinless)
- 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1/2 cup lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
For Baking and Serving
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Stuffing: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, lump crab meat, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, chopped green onions, and fresh parsley. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated into a creamy seafood mixture.
- Create Salmon Pockets: Carefully cut a deep slit lengthwise down the center of each salmon fillet, creating a pocket without cutting through completely to hold the stuffing securely inside.
- Stuff Salmon Fillets: Generously fill each salmon fillet pocket with the prepared seafood mixture, ensuring an even distribution for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the stuffed salmon fillets onto the lined baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each fillet to promote browning and moisture retention during baking.
- Bake: Bake the stuffed salmon in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
- Optional Broil: For an attractive golden top, optionally broil the fillets for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Serve the stuffed salmon warm, garnished with fresh lemon wedges alongside your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables or a green salad.
Notes
- You can prepare the seafood stuffing ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to use, making this dish perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- For the best flavor and texture, use wild-caught salmon fillets if available.
