Best Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

This crab and shrimp stuffed salmon is a rich, elegant dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to my kitchen. It features tender salmon fillets generously filled with a creamy seafood stuffing made from crab, shrimp, herbs, and just the right amount of spice. Whether I’m cooking for a special occasion or just craving something indulgent, this dish always feels like a celebration on a plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s surprisingly easy to make but looks and tastes impressive. The filling is luxurious without being heavy, and the salmon stays juicy and flavorful with every bite. It’s perfect for date nights, holidays, or even weeknight dinners when I want something elevated. The combination of seafood on seafood—rich crab, tender shrimp, and buttery salmon—is simply irresistible.

ingredients

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

• Salmon fillets (thick-cut, skin-on or skinless)

• Lump crab meat

• Cooked shrimp, chopped

• Cream cheese, softened

• Mayonnaise

• Dijon mustard

• Lemon juice

• Garlic, minced

• Green onions or chives, finely chopped

• Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)

• Salt and black pepper

• Olive oil or melted butter

• Optional: breadcrumbs for topping, fresh parsley for garnish

directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. In a bowl, I mix together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic, green onions, and seasoning until smooth.

3. I gently fold in the crab meat and chopped shrimp, being careful not to overmix so the seafood stays tender.

4. I make a slit or pocket in each salmon fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through.

5. I stuff each salmon fillet generously with the seafood mixture.

6. I place the stuffed salmon in the prepared baking dish and drizzle with olive oil or melted butter.

7. If I want a golden crust, I sprinkle a little seasoned breadcrumb on top.

8. I bake the salmon for 18–22 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the filling is hot.

9. I garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so I can have it ready in around 35 minutes.

Variations

• I sometimes add a bit of shredded parmesan cheese to the filling for extra richness.

• For a spicier kick, I mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.

• When I want a lighter version, I swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt or light sour cream.

• I’ve used imitation crab when real crab isn’t available—it still tastes great.

• For extra crispiness, I broil the salmon for 1–2 minutes at the end.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I cover the salmon with foil and bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through. I avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the fish. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but the flavors still hold up nicely the next day.

FAQs

Can I use canned crab meat?

Yes, I often use canned lump crab meat. I just make sure to drain it well and pick through it for any shells.

Do I have to cook the shrimp beforehand?

Yes, I use pre-cooked shrimp or quickly sauté raw shrimp before adding it to the stuffing. This ensures the filling is fully cooked by the time the salmon is done.

What’s the best salmon cut for stuffing?

I use thick center-cut fillets so there’s plenty of room for stuffing. Skin-on or skinless both work.

Can I grill this instead of baking?

I’ve grilled it successfully using foil packets. I wrap the stuffed salmon in foil and grill over medium heat for 15–20 minutes, then open the packet to let it brown.

What should I serve with stuffed salmon?

I like serving it with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. A light rice pilaf also works really well.

Conclusion

Crab and shrimp stuffed salmon is one of those dishes that feels fancy but doesn’t require a lot of effort. The creamy seafood filling pairs beautifully with flaky salmon, making every bite rich, savory, and unforgettable. Whether I’m hosting a dinner or just treating myself, this recipe always makes the moment feel special.