If you’re on the hunt for a dinner recipe that feels gourmet but comes together effortlessly in your kitchen, this Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is about to become your new favorite. Luxuriously tender salmon fillets are filled with a rich, savory stuffing made of succulent crab, chopped shrimp, and creamy cheese—then oven-baked to perfection. This recipe is a celebration of all things seafood, combining elegance and comfort in every bite.
Whether you’re entertaining guests, planning a romantic dinner, or just treating yourself to something special, this stuffed salmon dish delivers high-end restaurant quality without the steep price tag or complexity. Plus, with prep time under 20 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight option when you want to impress without stress.
Who This Recipe is For
This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon recipe is tailor-made for seafood enthusiasts, home cooks craving a fancy-yet-feasible meal, and anyone looking to elevate their typical salmon dish into something truly spectacular. It’s especially great for:
- Entertainers looking for a showstopping dish.
- Low-carb eaters (with a simple breadcrumb swap).
- Seafood aficionados who want to blend flavors of the ocean in one dish.
- Busy weeknight chefs who need a reliable, quick recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
If you enjoy dishes like stuffed chicken breasts or crab cakes, this will be right up your alley—but with the added nutrition and omega-3 benefits of salmon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Stuffing:
- 4 oz (115 g) cooked shrimp, finely chopped
- 4 oz (115 g) lump crab meat
- 2 oz (60 g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup (25 g) 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/170 g each), skin-on or skinless
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- Fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To bring this seafood masterpiece to life, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Baking dish or sheet pan
- Parchment paper (optional for easy cleanup)
- Paper towels
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Stuffing
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped cooked shrimp, lump crab meat, softened cream cheese, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, green onion, garlic, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until evenly blended. Set aside. This stuffing can be made a day ahead and kept in the fridge—just cover it tightly.
2. Prep the Salmon Fillets
Use paper towels to pat your salmon fillets dry—this helps the seasoning stick and promotes even baking. With a sharp knife, carefully cut a horizontal slit in the thickest part of each fillet to create a pocket. Be gentle and precise, ensuring not to slice all the way through.
Drizzle olive oil over the fillets and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Stuff the Salmon
Take a generous spoonful of the crab-shrimp mixture and gently pack it into the pocket of each salmon fillet. Press lightly to secure the filling. Don’t overstuff—it’s okay if a little peeks out!
4. Bake the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed fillets onto a lightly greased baking sheet or into a baking dish. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The stuffing should be warm and slightly golden on top.
5. Garnish and Serve
Once done, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve alongside lemon wedges. A light squeeze of lemon over the top brightens all the rich, savory seafood flavors.
Chef’s Tips & Variations
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the drying step. Moisture on the salmon’s surface can interfere with seasoning and texture.
- Use a serrated or very sharp knife when making the pockets to avoid tearing the fillets.
- Make the stuffing ahead to cut down prep time on busy nights.
Recipe Variations
- Low-Carb Version: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
- Cream Sauce Option: Drizzle with a lemon dill cream sauce for extra richness.
- Grilled Version: Wrap stuffed fillets in foil and grill over medium heat for about 15–18 minutes.
- Add Spice: Mix in a bit of finely diced jalapeño or cayenne for a kick.
- Herb Boost: Add chopped fresh dill or chives into the stuffing for a flavor twist.
Suggested Sides and Pairings
Perfect Side Dishes:
- Garlic butter green beans
- Roasted asparagus with lemon zest
- Creamy mashed cauliflower or potatoes
- Wild rice pilaf
Drink Pairings:
- A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or lightly oaked Chardonnay
- Sparkling water with lemon and mint
- Dry rosé for a touch of summer elegance
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though we doubt you will!), here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Storage: Place cooled fillets in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–12 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible—it can dry out the fish.
- Freezing: We do not recommend freezing this dish as the stuffing contains mayo and cream cheese, which can change texture when thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use canned crab instead of lump crab meat?
Yes, canned crab works in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it well and gently flake it before mixing.
Can I prepare the salmon ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the stuffed fillets and refrigerate them for up to 8 hours before baking. Just add 2–3 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Is there a dairy-free version?
You can substitute the cream cheese and mayonnaise with dairy-free alternatives such as almond-based cream cheese and vegan mayo.
What if I don’t have Old Bay seasoning?
A mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne can mimic the flavor. Adjust to your taste preference.
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before slicing and stuffing.
Final Thoughts: A Seafood Showstopper Worth Sharing
This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon recipe is a true gem—rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and visually stunning. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or spicing up your weekly menu, this dish checks all the boxes. With just a handful of accessible ingredients, you can recreate the decadence of a high-end seafood restaurant right at home.
It’s versatile enough for both special occasions and weeknight dinners, and it’s packed with healthy fats, protein, and satisfying textures.
If you love this recipe, don’t keep it to yourself—share it with friends and family! And for more delicious, gourmet-inspired meals made simple, subscribe to the blog so you never miss a post.
Bon appétit! 🐟🦐🦀
