Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is an elegant and flavorful seafood dish perfect for special occasions, dinner parties, or a luxurious weeknight treat. This recipe combines tender salmon fillets with a rich stuffing of crab, shrimp, and creamy cheeses, then baked to perfection for a show-stopping main course that is as delicious as it is impressive.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (6–8 ounces each, skin removed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

For the Crab and Shrimp Stuffing:

½ cup cooked crab meat, finely chopped
½ cup cooked shrimp, finely chopped
⅓ cup cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Juice of ½ lemon

For Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in the center of each fillet by slicing horizontally without cutting all the way through.

Step 3: Make the Stuffing
In a mixing bowl, combine crab meat, shrimp, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, parsley, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Stuff the Salmon
Spoon the crab and shrimp mixture into each salmon fillet pocket, packing it gently but firmly.

Step 5: Season and Arrange
Transfer the stuffed salmon fillets to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

Step 6: Bake the Salmon
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Step 7: Serve
Let the salmon rest for 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.

Nutrients

Calories: 430 kcal
Protein: 38 g
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Fat: 28 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sugar: 1 g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out for its balance of flavors, textures, and ease of preparation. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon:

Rich and Flavorful Stuffing: The combination of crab, shrimp, cream cheese, and Parmesan creates a stuffing that is creamy, savory, and bursting with flavor.
Tender, Flaky Salmon: Baking the salmon keeps it moist and flaky, providing the perfect contrast to the creamy filling.
Elegant Presentation: The stuffed salmon fillets look beautiful when served, making them perfect for special occasions or entertaining guests.
Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet appearance, this recipe is straightforward and easy to prepare, requiring just a few steps.
Versatile: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a flexible option for a complete meal.

Key Features of Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

High-Quality Salmon: The star of this dish, salmon fillets, provide a rich and tender base that pairs beautifully with the seafood stuffing.
Seafood-Packed Filling: The stuffing features a mix of cooked crab and shrimp, bringing a delicate sweetness and a touch of luxury to the dish.
Creamy and Savory Elements: Cream cheese, mayonnaise, and Parmesan cheese add creaminess and depth to the stuffing, while Dijon mustard and lemon juice enhance the flavor with tangy brightness.
Perfectly Baked: Baking the salmon ensures it stays juicy and flavorful while allowing the stuffing to meld perfectly with the fillet.
Simple Seasoning: A touch of olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional paprika adds just the right amount of seasoning to enhance the salmon’s natural flavor without overpowering it.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Highlights

Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is not only indulgent but also packed with nutrients that make it a wholesome choice:

High in Protein: With 38 grams of protein per serving, this dish supports muscle repair and keeps you feeling full.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: The seafood and parsley in this recipe provide a range of nutrients, including selenium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12.
Low in Carbohydrates: With only 4 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this dish is suitable for low-carb and keto-friendly diets.
Moderate Fat Content: The healthy fats from salmon and the stuffing contribute to the dish’s richness and satiety while providing essential fatty acids.

Tips for Making Perfect Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

To ensure your stuffed salmon turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:

Choose Fresh Salmon: Look for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets with firm, moist flesh. If frozen, thaw the fillets completely before using.
Prepare Even Pockets: Use a sharp knife to carefully create pockets in the salmon fillets, ensuring you don’t cut all the way through. This helps the stuffing stay securely in place.
Don’t Overfill: While you want a generous amount of stuffing, avoid overstuffing the salmon, as it can cause the filling to spill out during baking.
Season the Salmon: Lightly season the outside of the salmon with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika for added flavor and a beautiful golden finish.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the salmon, ensuring it reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked fish.

Serving Suggestions

Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some ideas for serving:

Vegetable Sides: Serve the salmon with roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or steamed broccoli for a light and healthy pairing.
Grain-Based Sides: Pair with wild rice, quinoa, or creamy risotto to create a more substantial meal.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the salmon and stuffing.
Potatoes: Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes complement the dish beautifully, adding a comforting element.
Lemon Wedges: Don’t forget to serve the salmon with extra lemon wedges for a burst of brightness.

Variations to Try

While the original recipe is delicious as-is, you can customize it to suit your preferences or experiment with new flavors:

Add Spinach: Mix chopped sautéed spinach into the stuffing for an extra dose of greens.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the stuffing for a spicy kick.
Herb Swap: Substitute parsley with fresh dill or tarragon for a different herbaceous flavor.
Cheese Alternatives: Use Gruyere or Fontina cheese instead of Parmesan for a creamier, slightly nutty flavor.
Bread-Free Stuffing: Skip the breadcrumbs for a low-carb version of the stuffing.
Grilled Option: Instead of baking, grill the stuffed salmon for a slightly smoky flavor and crispy edges.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is excellent for meal prep and can be made in advance for a stress-free dinner. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffing and salmon fillets up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and bake.
Refrigerate Leftovers: Store cooked stuffed salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
Reheat Gently: Reheat the salmon in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the salmon and dry out the stuffing.
Freeze for Later: Unbaked stuffed salmon fillets can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Conclusion

Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a sophisticated and indulgent dish that combines the best of seafood flavors in one stunning presentation. The tender salmon fillets, creamy crab and shrimp stuffing, and rich Parmesan cheese make this dish a true showstopper. Whether served as a main course for a dinner party, a romantic date night, or a special family meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

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