Looking for a restaurant-worthy meal you can create in your own kitchen with minimal effort? This Shrimp-Stuffed Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is an elegant yet approachable dish that brings bold flavors and impressive presentation to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a special occasion, or simply want to treat yourself to something decadent, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

Imagine flaky salmon fillets stuffed with creamy garlic shrimp filling, topped with seared shrimp and bathed in a zesty lemon butter sauce—it’s seafood indulgence at its finest. With easy-to-follow steps and everyday ingredients, this recipe proves that gourmet doesn’t have to mean complicated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant and Easy: Despite its upscale look, this recipe takes under 30 minutes from start to finish.

• Flavor-Packed: Creamy, garlicky shrimp filling paired with buttery salmon and a zing of lemon is pure magic.

• Perfect for Entertaining: The wow-factor presentation makes it ideal for guests or date nights.

• Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: No heavy carbs—just clean, satisfying protein and healthy fats.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon:

• 2 thick, center-cut salmon fillets

• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Shrimp Filling:

• 8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1/2 cup shrimp, chopped (for stuffing)

• 2 tbsp cream cheese

• 1 tbsp mayonnaise

• 1/2 tsp garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tsp lemon juice

For Cooking:

• 2 tbsp butter

• Extra garlic & lemon wedges (optional for garnish and serving)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Sharp knife (for cutting salmon pockets)

• Medium mixing bowl

• Skillet (nonstick or cast iron recommended)

• Tongs or spatula

• Spoon (for stuffing and serving sauce)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine chopped shrimp, cream cheese, mayonnaise, minced garlic, parsley, and lemon juice. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Mix until well blended and creamy. This forms the rich, flavorful core of your dish.

2. Stuff the Salmon

Use a sharp knife to cut a horizontal slit into the side of each salmon fillet, forming a pocket. Be careful not to slice all the way through. Spoon the shrimp mixture into the pockets, pressing gently to keep the filling secure.

3. Cook the Salmon

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted and foamy, carefully place the stuffed salmon fillets in the pan. Sear for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should be around 145°F/63°C). Baste occasionally with the butter for extra richness.

4. Cook the Whole Shrimp

Once the salmon is done, push it to the side of the skillet or temporarily remove it. Add the remaining whole shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1–2 minutes, flipping once, until pink and slightly curled.

5. Assemble and Serve

Transfer the stuffed salmon to plates. Top each fillet with a couple of the seared shrimp, then drizzle with the remaining lemon garlic butter from the pan. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for extra brightness.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Salmon

• Choose Thick Fillets: Center-cut salmon is best for stuffing—aim for pieces at least 1.5 inches thick.

• Room Temperature Fish: Let salmon sit at room temp for 15 minutes before cooking for more even doneness.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your skillet isn’t large enough, sear in batches to maintain a crisp sear.

• Use Toothpicks (Optional): If the filling is falling out, secure the pocket with a toothpick during cooking and remove before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter, or use the microwave on 50% power to avoid drying out the fish.
Not Recommended for Freezing: Due to the creamy shrimp filling, this dish is best enjoyed fresh.

What to Serve With Shrimp-Stuffed Salmon

This rich entrée pairs beautifully with fresh, bright, or lightly creamy sides to balance the flavor. Consider the following:

Side Ideas:

• Garlic mashed cauliflower or potatoes

• Roasted asparagus or green beans

• Lemon butter zucchini noodles

• Rice pilaf or wild rice blend

• A crisp green salad with citrus vinaigrette

Drink Pairings:

• White wines like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Grigio

• Sparkling water with lemon or cucumber

• A dry rosé for a summery vibe

Recipe Variations

• Crab-Stuffed Salmon: Swap the shrimp for lump crab meat for a luxurious twist.

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the shrimp filling.

• Herb Butter Upgrade: Infuse the cooking butter with rosemary, thyme, or dill for added complexity.

• Air Fryer Method: Air fry at 375°F for 12–14 minutes (use foil or a tray to prevent cheese leakage).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure it is completely thawed and patted dry before stuffing and cooking.

Can I prepare the stuffing in advance?

Absolutely! You can mix the shrimp filling up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! With no added carbs and rich healthy fats, it fits beautifully into a keto or low-carb lifestyle.

What if I don’t eat shellfish?

You can replace the shrimp with chopped spinach and feta, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for a vegetarian-inspired variation.

Can I bake it instead of pan-searing?

Yes, place the stuffed salmon in a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes or until cooked through.

Who This Recipe Is For

This recipe is perfect for:

• Home chefs wanting to impress with a gourmet meal

• Seafood lovers seeking a creamy, flavorful twist on classic salmon

• Couples celebrating an anniversary or romantic night in

• Dinner party hosts in need of a stunning, crowd-pleasing main course

No matter your occasion, this dish delivers flavor, elegance, and simplicity all in one skillet.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Shrimp-Stuffed Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce isn’t just dinner—it’s an experience. From the creamy filling to the seared golden crust and bright finish of lemon, it’s the kind of meal that makes an evening feel special.

If you loved this recipe, share it with your fellow food lovers, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more indulgent, easy-to-follow recipes. Let’s keep cooking, celebrating, and creating unforgettable meals together!

If you’d like, I can also help format this recipe for a printable card or suggest similar seafood dinner ideas.