Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a luxurious yet simple seafood dish featuring perfectly seasoned crab and shrimp stuffing nestled inside moist, flaky salmon fillets. Ready in under 30 minutes, it combines bold flavors, a creamy texture, and an elegant presentation perfect for busy weeknights, special dinners, or entertaining guests with a healthy, protein-packed meal.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Seafood
- 4 thick, skin-on fresh salmon fillets
- 1 cup lump crab meat
- 1/2 cup peeled, deveined, and finely chopped shrimp
Stuffing
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 shallots, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
For Cooking and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Prepare the Seafood Stuffing: In a mixing bowl, combine the lump crab meat and finely chopped shrimp. Stir in softened cream cheese, minced garlic, shallots, lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped fresh herbs. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Salmon Fillets: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a horizontal pocket in each salmon fillet without slicing all the way through. Pat the fillets dry with paper towels, then season the outside with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Stuff the Salmon: Gently spoon the prepared crab and shrimp stuffing into each salmon pocket, pressing lightly to secure. Use toothpicks if needed to keep the filling inside during cooking.
- Cook the Stuffed Salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the salmon fillets for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the stuffing is heated through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove toothpicks if used and plate the stuffed salmon. Serve immediately with your favorite sides and garnishes to elevate the meal.
Notes
- Use the freshest seafood possible for the best texture and flavor.
- Do not overstuff the salmon pockets to prevent spilling during cooking.
- Sear on medium-high heat and finish baking in the oven to keep the salmon moist.
- Allow the stuffed salmon to rest a few minutes before serving to retain juices.
- Line your baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed salmon fillet
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg
Keywords: Crab, shrimp, stuffed salmon, seafood, baked salmon, easy seafood recipe, healthy dinner, quick meal, gluten free, elegant dinner