Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe

Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon brings together all the freshest flavors of the sea in one splendid package, making it a showstopper for your dinner table yet totally approachable for a cozy weeknight treat. Imagine tender salmon fillets overflowing with succulent crab and shrimp, melded together with creamy accents and a touch of zingy spice. This recipe is not just delicious—it’s a fun, impressive way to turn simple ingredients into something restaurant-worthy. Whether you’re hoping to wow guests or just elevate your homemade dinner game, this dish delivers richness, color, and pure comfort in every bite.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s truly amazing how a handful of quality ingredients can build such big flavors in the Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon. Each component plays a role, from the luscious seafood blend down to the fresh herbs and zingy lemon juice, ensuring this dish is rich, balanced, and beautiful on your plate.

• Salmon Fillets: These are the stars of the show; choose center-cut pieces for even stuffing and baking.
• Cooked Shrimp, Chopped: Adds sweet, firm texture to the stuffing—use leftover shrimp or steam a small batch just for this dish.
• Crab Meat: Brings a delicate, briny flavor—look for lump crab for the best results, or use what’s most accessible to you.
• Mayonnaise: Helps bind the filling while keeping it luscious and moist.
• Cream Cheese (room temperature): Adds creaminess and smooth texture, making the filling both rich and easy to work with.
• Dijon Mustard: Lends a pop of tang and subtle heat for depth.
• Old Bay Seasoning: Brings that signature seafood flavor that ties the entire mixture together – don’t skip this classic blend!
• Chopped Green Onion: A fresh bite of mild onion that brightens up the stuffing.
• Chopped Parsley: For a burst of color and herby freshness that pops in every forkful.
• Garlic Powder: Infuses the filling with savory notes without overpowering the delicate seafood.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing and amplifying flavors.
• Lemon Juice: Adds crucial acidity, cutting through the richness so each bite feels light and vibrant.
• Olive Oil: Keeps the salmon moist as it bakes and adds just the slightest fruity undertone.

How to Make Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Let’s get things started! Set your oven to 375°F (190°C)—having the oven properly preheated ensures your Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon bakes evenly and the seafood stays juicy inside the salmon pocket.

Step 2: Mix Up the Seafood Stuffing

In a medium bowl, combine your cooked, chopped shrimp and crab meat with the mayonnaise, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, green onion, parsley, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is fully integrated but still a bit chunky; you want to see and taste every element in each bite!

Step 3: Prepare the Salmon Fillets

Pat each salmon fillet dry with paper towels for a beautiful sear and to help the olive oil adhere. With a sharp knife, carefully cut a deep, lengthwise pocket into the thickest side of each fillet—don’t slice all the way through! You’re creating a little envelope ready to be loaded with flavorful filling.

Step 4: Stuff the Salmon

Gently spoon the seafood filling into each pocket, pressing slightly to ensure it’s packed in but not overflowing. If a little pokes out, that’s a bonus for a lovely, rustic look. The mixture will help keep the salmon moist as it cooks and infuse it with gorgeous flavor.

Step 5: Arrange and Drizzle

Place your stuffed salmon fillets into a greased baking dish, arranging them so they’re not overlapping. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over each piece and sprinkle with a pinch more salt and pepper, if desired. This final touch keeps the tops golden and flavorful.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the oven and cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The stuffing will be warmed through and the whole kitchen will smell incredible. Be careful not to overbake—you want your salmon moist and tender.

How to Serve Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

Garnishes

A classic garnish for Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a bright wedge of lemon—its citrus zing lifts the whole dish. You can also finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few extra chopped green onions for a pop of color and an herbal hit that echoes the flavors inside. For a special occasion, a dusting of paprika or a swirl of garlic butter over the top will make it even more irresistible.

Side Dishes

This rich, seafood-packed salmon loves simple sides like steamed asparagus, sautéed green beans, or a medley of roasted vegetables. Garlic mashed potatoes or a fluffy rice pilaf are perfect for soaking up those flavorful juices. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances everything beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, try plating your Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon on a bed of blanched greens, or nestle each fillet atop a vibrant lemon risotto for an upscale twist. You can also serve it family-style with all the garnishes on the side, letting guests build their perfect plate. Don’t forget fancy platters and colorful napkins—a little presentation takes this meal from great to unforgettable!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon will keep well in the refrigerator for up to two days. Place the fillets in an airtight container, ideally separating the pieces with parchment paper to preserve their shape and prevent the stuffing from getting mashed.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead, you can assemble the stuffed salmon and freeze the uncooked fillets individually, tightly wrapped in plastic and foil. They can be baked straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Cooked leftovers can also be frozen, although the texture of the seafood filling may become slightly softer upon reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon in a preheated oven at 325°F, covered loosely with foil to maintain moisture. Warm for around 10-12 minutes until heated through. Microwaving is possible for a quick fix, but oven reheating will best preserve the salmon’s texture and the stuffing’s creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use canned crab or shrimp?

Absolutely! Canned crab and shrimp work well, especially as a convenient option. Just make sure to drain them thoroughly and check for any shells in the crab. The flavor will still shine through in your Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon.

How do I prevent my salmon from overcooking?

The key is to monitor your salmon closely—look for opaque flesh that flakes with a fork and check a few minutes before the suggested baking time ends. Since the filling helps insulate the salmon, it tends to stay moist, but don’t be tempted to leave it in much longer than 20 minutes unless your fillets are very thick.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is naturally gluten-free as written. Just confirm that your seafood (especially any canned products) and seasonings are certified gluten-free to be extra safe for those with sensitivities.

Can I substitute other fish for salmon?

You can! Thick, sturdy fillets like trout or even halibut are great alternatives. Just make sure the fillets are large enough to cut a good pocket for stuffing. Each variety brings its own unique flavor that pairs beautifully with the seafood filling.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Definitely. You can mix up your shrimp and crab stuffing a day in advance—just keep it tightly covered in the fridge. Stuff and bake your salmon right before serving for the freshest, creamiest results.

Final Thoughts

Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is the kind of dish that never fails to amaze, both in taste and in how simple it is to prepare. Give it a try—you’ll be surprised at how easily you can create something worthy of a celebration right at home. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a midweek treat, this meal will bring delighted smiles all around your table!