If you are looking for a seafood dish that feels both indulgent and surprisingly approachable, this Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining tender salmon with a luscious, creamy filling of crab and shrimp, it balances delicate flavors and textures that taste like a celebration on your plate. Whether it’s for a special dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe turns everyday ingredients into something spectacularly memorable and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet flavorful ingredients is the first step to mastering the Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe. Each element plays an essential role: from the fresh seafood adding sweetness and depth, to the cream cheese delivering richness, and the herbs and spices infusing vibrant color and aroma.
- Salmon fillets (4 x 6 oz), skin removed: Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best texture and flavor.
- Cooked crab meat (1/2 cup), chopped: Adds a delicate sweetness and flaky texture to the stuffing.
- Cooked shrimp (1/2 cup), chopped: Provides a tender and slightly briny contrast that complements the crab.
- Cream cheese (1/4 cup), softened: Creates a creamy, smooth stuffing that binds everything beautifully.
- Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): Enhances moisture and richness for a luscious filling.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens and balances the seafood flavors with a citrusy zing.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle tang and depth to the mixture.
- Garlic (2 cloves), minced: Delivers aromatic pungency that elevates the overall taste.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons), chopped: Infuses freshness and a pop of green color.
- Smoked paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Brings warmth and a smoky nuance that complements the seafood.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to highlight all the flavors.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For searing the salmon to a gorgeous golden crust.
How to Make Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Salmon for Stuffing
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully take a sharp knife and create a pocket along the side of each salmon fillet. Your goal is to open a cavity big enough to hold the stuffing without cutting through the fillet completely. This makes for that impressive stuffed presentation and ensures every bite has savory filling and tender salmon in perfect harmony.
Step 2: Mixing the Crab and Shrimp Filling
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped crab meat and shrimp with cream cheese, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, parsley, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until fully blended into a creamy, flavorful mixture. This stuffing is the heart of the dish, so don’t rush — mixing thoroughly ensures balanced seasoning and a smooth texture.
Step 3: Stuffing the Salmon
Generously fill the pocket in each salmon fillet with the prepared crab and shrimp mixture. If needed, use toothpicks to keep the filling snug and intact as you cook. This step turns simple salmon fillets into elegant parcels bursting with rich, layered flavors that will impress everyone at your table.
Step 4: Searing the Salmon
Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the stuffed salmon fillets in the pan, searing for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until a beautiful golden crust forms. Searing locks in moisture and adds a lovely texture contrast to the tender interior.
Step 5: Baking to Perfection
Once seared, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. This final step ensures the filling is heated perfectly and the salmon stays moist and tender.
Step 6: Resting and Serving
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving. This brief pause allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a flavorful and juicy bite every time you dig in.
How to Serve Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like a sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill bring a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich seafood stuffing beautifully. A thin wedge of lemon on the side adds brightness for guests to squeeze on as desired.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with light but flavorful sides such as roasted asparagus, garlic butter green beans, or a crisp mixed green salad. For something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or a rice pilaf work perfectly to soak up any buttery juices.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve each stuffed salmon fillet on a bed of sautéed spinach or alongside vibrant vegetable ribbons for an eye-catching plate. Drizzle a lemon-butter sauce or a light herb vinaigrette around the edges to add a gourmet touch that makes the dish feel even more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover stuffed salmon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days without losing its delightful texture and flavor.
Freezing
While the Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe tastes freshest when made the same day, you can freeze the cooked fillets wrapped securely in heavy-duty foil or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 1 month, but be mindful that the texture may slightly change upon thawing due to the cream cheese filling.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven, covered loosely with foil, for about 10-15 minutes to avoid drying out the fish. Microwaving is best avoided as it can toughen the salmon and alter the creamy filling’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen crab meat and shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to prevent excess moisture in the stuffing, which can affect the texture.
Is it necessary to remove the skin from the salmon?
Removing the skin helps create that perfect pocket for stuffing and makes eating easier, but if you prefer, you can leave it on and just slide the filling between the skin and flesh carefully.
What if I don’t have cream cheese on hand?
You can substitute with mascarpone or a soft ricotta cheese, which will maintain the creamy texture while bringing a slightly different flavor profile.
How spicy is the Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe?
This recipe is mild and crowd-pleasing. The smoked paprika adds smoky warmth without heat, but if you like a kick, feel free to sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or crushed red chili flakes.
Can I prepare the stuffing mixture ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the filling a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. When ready, stuff and cook the salmon as directed for effortless timing.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe that makes it a standout for any occasion. It feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to prepare, delivering layers of flavor and texture that never fail to impress. Give it a try, and you’ll quickly understand why it’s become such a beloved favorite in my kitchen. Happy cooking!
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Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon recipe features tender salmon fillets filled with a creamy and flavorful mixture of cooked crab meat, shrimp, cream cheese, and fresh herbs. The fillets are seared to a golden brown on the stovetop and finished in the oven for a perfectly cooked, elegant seafood dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Salmon Fillets
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
Stuffing Mixture
- 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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the salmon after searing.
- Create Salmon Pockets: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each salmon fillet. Make sure not to slice all the way through to hold the stuffing securely.
- Prepare Stuffing Mixture: 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, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended.
- Stuff Salmon Fillets: Generously spoon the crab and shrimp mixture into each salmon pocket. If necessary, use toothpicks to secure the opening and keep the stuffing inside while cooking.
- 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 them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust.
- Bake the Salmon: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes or until it 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. Serve the stuffed salmon warm alongside your favorite side dishes for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Be careful not to cut through the salmon completely when making the pocket.
- If toothpicks are used to secure the filling, remember to remove them before serving.
- Use fresh seafood for the best flavor and texture.
- Serve with light sides like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors.
- Leftover stuffed salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
