Seafood Lover’s Delight | Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe

If you’re a fan of seafood, then this Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is your dream dish! It’s a rich and indulgent recipe that combines the tenderness of salmon, the sweetness of crab, and the succulence of shrimp, all stuffed together with a creamy filling. This dish is perfect for any special occasion, holiday dinner, or even a decadent weeknight treat. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Indulgent and elegant – Perfect for special occasions or an impressive dinner party.

• Flavor-packed – Sweet crab, shrimp, and creamy filling pair beautifully with the rich salmon.

• Simple to prepare – Despite its elegant look, it’s relatively simple to make with just a few key ingredients.

• A seafood lover’s dream – Ideal for anyone who loves seafood, from shrimp to crab and rich salmon.

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Ingredient Overview: What You’ll Need

Salmon Fillets

Choose boneless, skinless salmon fillets that are thick enough to be stuffed. The size should be large enough to allow for a deep pocket to fill with the crab and shrimp stuffing.

Crab Meat

Use lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture. Fresh or canned crab will work, but fresh crab provides a more delicate, sweet flavor.

Shrimp

Peeled and deveined shrimp will provide a juicy, flavorful contrast to the crab and salmon. You can use large shrimp for better texture.

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese creates a rich, creamy base for the stuffing, holding the crab and shrimp together while adding a silky texture.

Garlic and Herbs

Fresh garlic provides aromatic depth to the stuffing, while fresh parsley or chives brings a bit of freshness and color.

Lemon

Fresh lemon juice and zest add brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the seafood and salmon.

Parmesan Cheese

For an extra layer of flavor and creaminess in the stuffing.

Olive Oil & Butter

A combination of olive oil and butter is used to sear and bake the salmon, adding richness and a golden, crispy exterior.

Salt and Pepper

Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.

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How to Make Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon (Step-by-Step)

1. Prepare the Salmon

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Pat 4 boneless, skinless salmon fillets dry with paper towels.

• Use a sharp knife to carefully cut a deep pocket into the center of each fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through the sides.

• Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Prepare the Crab & Shrimp Stuffing

• Cook the shrimp: In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.

  • Add 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined) and cook for 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque.

  • Remove from the pan and chop into small pieces.

• In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add 2 garlic cloves (minced) and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

• Add 8 oz cream cheese and ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese has melted and is smooth.

• Add the chopped shrimp, 1 cup lump crab meat, 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped), 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tsp lemon zest.

• Stir everything together until fully combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The mixture should be thick and creamy.

3. Stuff the Salmon

• Spoon the crab and shrimp stuffing into the pocket of each salmon fillet, being generous with the stuffing. Press gently to pack it in, but be careful not to break the salmon apart.

4. Sear and Bake the Salmon

• Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

• Once hot, add the stuffed salmon fillets to the skillet, skin-side down, and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

• Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

5. Garnish and Serve

• Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 2 minutes.

• Garnish with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge on the side.

• Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Salmon

• Don’t overcook the salmon – Salmon is best when it’s still juicy and tender, so be sure to watch the cooking time.

• Use fresh seafood – Fresh crab and shrimp will give the dish the best flavor and texture.

• Adjust the stuffing – If you prefer more shrimp or crab, feel free to increase the amounts and adjust the cream cheese accordingly to maintain the right consistency.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the crab and shrimp mixture for a spicy kick.

• Herb-Infused: Add some fresh thyme or oregano to the stuffing for a more herby flavor.

• Crusty Topping: For extra texture, top the stuffed salmon with a panko breadcrumb and parmesan cheese mixture before baking.

Substitutions

• No crab? Use lobster meat or extra shrimp instead.

• No cream cheese? Substitute with mascarpone cheese or ricotta cheese for a slightly different texture.

• Low-Carb or Keto? Serve the stuffed salmon with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is perfect for:

• Special occasions like holidays, anniversaries, or date night.

• Impressing guests at a dinner party.

• A comforting yet elegant family meal.

Serve with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or steamed asparagus for a complete, restaurant-quality meal.

• A light salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.

• A glass of crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to complement the seafood.

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Nutritional & Health Benefits

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving, 4 servings total):

• Calories: 500–550

• Protein: 45–50g

• Fat: 30–35g

• Carbs: 8–10g (depending on serving size)

• Fiber: 1–2g

Nutritional Highlights:

• Salmon: High in omega-3 fatty acids, which are heart-healthy and promote brain function.

• Crab and Shrimp: Provide lean protein, essential minerals, and low fat.

• Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties.

• Lemon: Rich in vitamin C, which supports immunity and skin health.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the salmon fillets ahead of time. Store them in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.

2. Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp and crab completely before using them. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.

3. Can I make this without crab?

Absolutely! You can use more shrimp or substitute with lobster meat or scallops for a different but equally delicious variation.

4. What can I serve with stuffed salmon?

Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover stuffed salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the salmon’s moisture.

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