Name: Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 thick-cut salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless); 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, chopped; 1/2 cup lump crab meat, drained; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning or paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing); Optional: fresh dill or parsley, lemon wedges for garnish

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Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a rich, elegant seafood dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for a special dinner. I take thick salmon fillets and fill them with a creamy, savory mixture of crab, shrimp, and herbs, then bake until everything is perfectly tender and golden. It’s restaurant-worthy, but easy enough to make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the richness of salmon with the luxurious taste of shellfish in every bite. The stuffing is creamy, flavorful, and packed with seafood goodness, while the salmon stays moist and flaky. Whether I’m cooking for a dinner party or treating myself to a gourmet night in, this dish always feels like a celebration.

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)
Cooked shrimp (chopped)
Lump crab meat (drained)
Cream cheese (softened)
Mayonnaise
Garlic (minced)
Green onions (chopped)
Lemon juice
Dijon mustard
Old Bay seasoning or paprika
Salt and black pepper
Olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
Optional: fresh dill or parsley for garnish, lemon wedges for serving

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
I prepare the stuffing by mixing cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, mustard, Old Bay, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl.
I fold in the chopped shrimp, crab meat, and green onions gently until combined.
I slice each salmon fillet through the center (but not all the way through) to create a pocket.
I stuff each fillet generously with the crab and shrimp mixture and place them in the prepared dish.
I brush the tops with olive oil or melted butter and season with a little more salt, pepper, and paprika.
I bake for 18–22 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily and the filling is hot and golden.
I garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped spinach or artichoke hearts to the filling for extra flavor and texture. I’ve also used smoked salmon in the filling for a bold twist. If I want to spice things up, I add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños. For a low-carb version, I serve it over cauliflower mash or a crisp green salad.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I reheat gently in the oven at 300°F to preserve the texture, or in the microwave in short intervals. I don’t recommend freezing, as the creamy filling can separate.

FAQs

Can I use canned crab or pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, I use high-quality canned crab and cooked shrimp for convenience. I just drain them well to avoid watery filling.

What type of salmon works best?

I prefer thick-cut center fillets so I can make a clean pocket. Skin-on or skinless both work, depending on preference.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, I stuff the salmon, cover, and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. I bring it to room temperature before cooking.

What sides go well with this?

I serve it with roasted vegetables, wild rice, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Can I grill it instead of baking?

Yes, I wrap each fillet in foil and grill over medium heat for about 15–20 minutes, checking for doneness.

Conclusion

Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is one of my favorite ways to turn a simple fillet into a gourmet seafood dish. The creamy, flavorful stuffing adds richness, while the salmon stays juicy and tender. Whether I’m cooking for guests or just treating myself, this dish always feels like something special.

liinaa