Name: Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless); 1/2 cup lump crab meat (picked over for shells); 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, chopped; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped; 1/2 tsp paprika (plus more for topping); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter; Lemon slices (optional for garnish)

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Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is my go-to when I want an elegant, restaurant-style dinner without leaving home. I love the way the rich, flaky salmon holds a savory filling of tender crab, juicy shrimp, and creamy herbs. It’s indulgent, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make, whether for a special occasion or just when I’m craving something decadent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dish because it’s packed with flavor and feels luxurious without being overly complicated. The stuffing combines seafood, creaminess, and spices that perfectly complement the buttery salmon. I can prepare it ahead of time, and it always impresses when I plate it up. It’s also a great way to turn basic salmon into something unforgettable.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the stuffing:

Lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
Cooked shrimp, chopped
Cream cheese
Mayonnaise
Dijon mustard
Lemon juice
Garlic, minced
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Paprika
Salt and pepper

For the salmon:

Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
Olive oil or melted butter
Lemon slices (optional for garnish)

directions

I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
I make the stuffing by combining the crab, shrimp, cream cheese, mayo, mustard, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and seasonings in a bowl. I mix gently until combined but still chunky.
I take each salmon fillet and cut a deep slit down the middle to create a pocket, being careful not to slice all the way through.
I spoon the crab and shrimp mixture generously into each salmon pocket, pressing gently to secure it.
I brush the tops of the fillets with olive oil or butter and season lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika.
I bake for about 18–22 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
I garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 stuffed fillets. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake, so I usually have it ready in around 35 minutes total.

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped spinach or green onions to the stuffing for extra freshness. I’ve also swapped the cream cheese for ricotta or added a little grated Parmesan for a sharper taste. If I’m feeling bold, I drizzle a bit of garlic butter or white wine sauce over the top before baking for an extra layer of flavor.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I use the oven at 300°F to warm the salmon gently without drying it out. The microwave works too, but I cover it and use a low setting to keep the seafood tender.

FAQs

Can I use canned crab meat?

Yes, I’ve used canned crab when fresh isn’t available. I just make sure it’s high quality and well-drained before mixing it in.

What kind of shrimp should I use?

I use small, cooked shrimp—either fresh or frozen and thawed. If I only have raw shrimp, I quickly sauté them first and let them cool before adding.

Can I grill the stuffed salmon instead of baking?

It’s possible, but I prefer baking because it holds the filling better. If I grill, I wrap the salmon in foil to keep everything secure and moist.

Can I make this recipe ahead?

Yes, I prepare and stuff the salmon up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. I bake it just before serving.

What should I serve with it?

I usually pair it with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. The flavors are rich, so I keep the sides fresh and light.

Conclusion

Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is one of those meals that always feels like a treat. I love the way the creamy, savory filling enhances the natural flavor of the salmon, turning a simple dish into something truly special. Whether I’m making it for a dinner party or just indulging at home, it never disappoints.