How to Make the Best Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon at Home

Introduction

Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a decadent seafood dish that’s perfect for special occasions, date nights, or whenever you crave a gourmet meal at home. This dish combines the buttery richness of salmon with a savory, creamy filling made from lump crab meat, shrimp, and cream cheese, creating an indulgent yet balanced flavor.

Despite its restaurant-quality presentation, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make at home. With just a few simple steps, you can prepare a flavor-packed, oven-baked salmon entrée that’s sure to impress your family and guests. Whether you’re a seafood lover or trying something new, this Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a must-try recipe that’s both delicious and nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe

A Fancy Yet Easy Seafood Dinner

This dish is perfect for date nights, holidays, or dinner parties, offering an elegant meal without the hassle. While it looks gourmet and restaurant-worthy, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare with just a few ingredients and easy steps.

Rich and Flavorful Filling

The combination of lump crab meat, shrimp, cream cheese, and Old Bay seasoning creates a savory, creamy filling that perfectly complements the tender salmon. Every bite is packed with flavor, making it a true seafood lover’s delight.

Healthy and Nutritious

Salmon is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any meal. The crab and shrimp stuffing adds extra protein while keeping the dish light yet satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon

• Atlantic salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• Lemon juice for a fresh, citrusy touch
• Garlic butter to enhance flavor

For the Crab & Shrimp Stuffing

• Lump crab meat for a rich, seafood flavor
• Peeled shrimp (chopped) for added texture and taste
• Cream cheese to create a creamy, smooth filling
• Parmesan cheese for a hint of sharpness
• Dijon mustard to balance the flavors
• Old Bay seasoning for a classic seafood spice blend
• Lemon zest to brighten the dish
• Fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness

For the Topping & Garnish

• Panko breadcrumbs to add a crispy, golden topping
• Lemon butter sauce for extra richness and moisture

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

Step 1 – Prepare the Salmon

• Slice the Salmon Fillets: Take each salmon fillet and carefully slice it horizontally from the thickest part of the fish to create a pocket. This is where you’ll stuff the crab and shrimp mixture. Make sure to leave the bottom of the fillet intact, so the stuffing doesn’t fall out during baking.
• Season the Fillets: Once your fillets are cut, brush them with garlic butter. The garlic butter will add a rich, savory flavor to the fish. Then, sprinkle with salt and pepper to season the fish before stuffing. This simple seasoning helps enhance the natural flavors of the salmon without overpowering the stuffing.

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Step 2 – Make the Crab & Shrimp Filling

• Prepare the Seafood Filling: In a mixing bowl, add lump crab meat and peeled shrimp that has been chopped into small pieces. These two ingredients provide a delightful seafood blend.
• Add the Creamy Ingredients: To give the filling a rich, creamy texture, mix in cream cheese. The cream cheese will bind the seafood together and make the filling smooth and luscious.
• Seasoning the Filling: To enhance the flavor, add Dijon mustard, which adds a slight tang and depth to the filling, and Old Bay seasoning, which gives a classic, flavorful kick.
• Mix Until Well Combined: Stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly mixed. The consistency should be thick enough to hold together but still spreadable. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or Old Bay for extra flavor.

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Step 3 – Stuff and Bake the Salmon

• Stuff the Salmon Fillets: Once your stuffing is ready, take a spoon and carefully fill the pocket in each salmon fillet with the crab and shrimp mixture. Be sure not to overstuff, as the filling should sit comfortably within the fillet without spilling out.
• Add Panko Breadcrumbs: After stuffing the salmon, top each fillet with a layer of Panko breadcrumbs. These breadcrumbs will give the salmon a crispy, golden finish when baked. You can lightly press them into the filling to help them stick.
• Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake the salmon for 18-20 minutes, or until the fish is fully cooked and flaky. The stuffing should be hot and slightly browned on top.

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Step 4 – Serve and Enjoy

• Lemon Butter Sauce: For added richness and a burst of freshness, drizzle the salmon with lemon butter sauce right before serving. You can make this sauce by melting butter and mixing it with a little lemon juice and zest. It’ll complement the seafood and add an extra layer of flavor.
• Garnish with Fresh Parsley: Finish the dish by sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley over the top. Not only does it add a beautiful pop of color, but it also brings a fresh, herbal taste that balances the richness of the stuffing.

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After following these steps, you’ll have a beautifully stuffed salmon with a flavorful, creamy filling and a crispy topping. Serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or your favorite starch, and enjoy a gourmet meal right at home!

Tips for the Best Stuffed Salmon

Choosing the Best Salmon Fillets

• Opt for thick-cut salmon fillets that are sturdy enough to hold the stuffing without falling apart. Fillets that are around 1 inch thick work best.
• If you prefer skin-on fillets, they help to keep the salmon moist while cooking, but skinless fillets can be used for a more delicate texture.

How to Keep the Stuffing Moist and Flavorful

• Don’t overstuff the salmon fillets—just enough to fill the pocket without it overflowing.
• For a creamier filling, you can add a bit of extra cream cheese or butter to the stuffing mixture. This will keep the stuffing moist and flavorful as it bakes.

What to Serve with Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

• Pair your stuffed salmon with side dishes like garlic butter asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
• For a more decadent option, serve with roasted vegetables or rice pilaf to complete the meal.

These tips will help you create the most flavorful and satisfying Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen shrimp and crab?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp and crab for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the stuffing mixture. This will prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture of your filling.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. To reheat, bake in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This will help maintain the texture of the salmon and stuffing.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed salmon ahead of time. Simply stuff the fillets, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, just bake as instructed.

These FAQs should help answer any questions you may have while preparing your delicious Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon!

You’ll Also Love

If you enjoyed this Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon, here are some other seafood recipes you’ll love:

• Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp – A simple yet flavorful shrimp dish with a tangy lemon garlic butter sauce.
• Baked Salmon with Honey Garlic Glaze – A sweet and savory glaze over tender baked salmon.
• Seafood Paella – A vibrant one-pan dish packed with shrimp, mussels, and saffron rice.
• Stuffed Lobster Tails – Lobster tails stuffed with a rich seafood mixture, perfect for special occasions.

Conclusion

Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is the perfect combination of easy preparation, incredible flavor, and elegant presentation. With its rich, creamy seafood filling and tender salmon, this dish will feel like a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to a gourmet dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Give it a try and experience the delight of this decadent seafood dish. Don’t forget to share your creations with us by using #BeesRecipes on Instagram—we can’t wait to see how you bring this delicious meal to life!