If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious, this Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe is sure to become your new favorite. Juicy salmon fillets are lovingly filled with a luscious blend of fresh crab meat, tender shrimp, and a creamy mixture bursting with herbs and a hint of smoky paprika. Every bite delivers a symphony of flavors and textures that makes for an unforgettable dinner experience, whether it’s a special occasion or just a way to treat yourself midweek.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple yet thoughtfully chosen to create a perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color. Each component adds something special — from the rich creaminess of the cream cheese to the bright freshness of parsley and lemon juice, all combining to elevate the salmon to new heights.
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed: Fresh, firm fillets provide a perfect base for stuffing and hold up beautifully during cooking.
- 1/2 cup cooked crab meat, chopped: Succulent and sweet, this gives the stuffing a luxurious seafood punch.
- 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, chopped: Adds texture and a delicate briny flavor that complements the crab.
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened: Brings creamy richness that binds the stuffing together perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Enhances moisture and adds a silky smoothness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Lifts the flavors with zesty brightness, balancing the richness.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: A subtle tang that adds depth without overpowering.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives the stuffing a gentle aromatic kick.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of fresh herbal flavor and vibrant green color.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a warm, smoky undertone that ties everything together.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for searing, it creates a beautiful golden crust on the salmon.
How to Make Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Fillets
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, take a sharp knife and carefully slice a pocket on the side of each salmon fillet. Be sure not to cut all the way through — you want just enough space to stuff the seafood mixture inside without it spilling out during cooking.
Step 2: Make the Stuffing
In a medium bowl, combine the cooked crab meat, chopped shrimp, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper. Mix everything together until the texture is creamy and all ingredients are well incorporated — this will be the luscious heart of your stuffed salmon.
Step 3: Stuff the Salmon Fillets
Generously fill each salmon pocket with the crab and shrimp mixture, ensuring every bite will be packed with flavor. If needed, use toothpicks to keep the filling snug and secure before cooking.
Step 4: Sear the Stuffed Salmon
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the stuffed fillets carefully in the pan and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side. This step seals in juiciness and creates a beautiful golden crust that’s as delicious as it looks.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done, while the filling remains creamy and flavorful. Let them rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven to allow juices to settle.
How to Serve Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up your stuffed salmon with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few thin lemon slices on top. These simple touches add color, aroma, and a pop of fresh flavor that complements the rich filling perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides like a crisp arugula salad, roasted asparagus, or garlic butter green beans. For something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or a fragrant rice pilaf make excellent companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your plating by serving the stuffed salmon on a bed of wilted spinach or a colorful quinoa salad. Drizzle a lemon herb butter or a delicate beurre blanc sauce around the plate to add flair and extra layers of flavor your guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to two days, allowing you to enjoy this delicious meal again without sacrificing quality.
Freezing
While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can freeze the cooked stuffed salmon by wrapping each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. Consume within one month for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating
When ready to reheat, gently warm the salmon in a low oven (around 275°F/135°C) until just heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the fish and alter the creamy filling’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen seafood for the stuffing?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the crab meat and shrimp fully and pat them dry before mixing to avoid excess moisture that could affect the stuffing’s consistency.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You could substitute with mascarpone or a mild ricotta cheese for a similar creamy texture, although cream cheese provides the best balance of richness and tang.
Is it necessary to sear the salmon before baking?
Searing is highly recommended because it locks in the juices and creates a gorgeous golden crust, giving your Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe that perfect restaurant-quality finish.
Can I prepare the stuffing in advance?
Yes! The stuffing can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. This saves time on cooking day, just make sure to stuff the salmon right before cooking to keep it fresh.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay works beautifully. Their acidity and flavor profile complement the rich seafood and salmon without overpowering it.
Final Thoughts
This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe is truly a gem for anyone who loves seafood and wants to impress with a restaurant-worthy meal that’s surprisingly easy to pull off. From the melt-in-your-mouth stuffing to the perfectly cooked salmon, every element sings together in harmony. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy the delightful flavors as much as I do!
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Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon recipe offers a delightful seafood twist on classic baked salmon. Tender salmon fillets are stuffed with a creamy, flavorful mixture of crab meat, shrimp, and aromatic seasonings, then seared to golden perfection before being baked to juicy, flaky finish. Perfect for a special dinner or elegant weeknight meal, this dish combines delicious seafood flavors with a rich, creamy stuffing inside the salmon.
Ingredients
Salmon Fillets
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
Seafood Stuffing
- 1/2 cup cooked crab meat, chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the salmon.
- Create pockets in salmon: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each salmon fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through the fillet.
- Prepare stuffing mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped crab meat, shrimp, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully blended.
- Stuff the salmon: Generously spoon the crab and shrimp stuffing into each salmon fillet pocket. Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed to keep the stuffing inside.
- Sear the salmon: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the stuffed salmon fillets in the skillet and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Bake the salmon: Transfer the skillet with the seared salmon to the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Rest and serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving warm alongside your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Ensure not to cut the salmon fillet all the way through when making pockets to prevent stuffing from leaking out.
- Use fresh seafood if possible for the best flavor and texture.
- To keep the stuffing intact during cooking, toothpicks can be used to close the pockets securely.
- Feel free to serve this dish with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a balanced meal.
- Leftover stuffed salmon can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
