Get ready to seriously elevate your next dinner with Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: A Decadent Dinner. Imagine juicy salmon fillets bursting with a creamy, savory filling made from luscious crab, tender shrimp, and just the right touch of fresh herbs and vibrant lemon. Every bite is rich, satisfying, and totally restaurant-worthy. This showstopper is surprisingly easy to pull off, yet delivers the kind of flavor and elegance that will have everyone at the table convinced you’re a seafood genius. Whether you’re planning a special night in or just craving something a little extra, this is the meal you’ll want to cook again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its approachable yet luxurious lineup. Each ingredient plays a starring role—bringing flavor, moisture, color, and that unmistakable elegance only a seafood-stuffed salmon can provide!
- Salmon fillets: Rich and buttery, these make the perfect canvas for our decadent seafood filling.
- Cooked shrimp (chopped): Adds sweet, delicate bites that pair perfectly with the flakiness of the salmon and crab.
- Lump crab meat: Opt for the freshest you can find; it brings luxury and texture to every forkful.
- Cream cheese (softened): The secret to that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth filling.
- Mayonnaise: Helps bind everything together while adding a tangy silkiness.
- Dijon mustard: For just a hint of gentle heat and a pop of complex flavor.
- Lemon juice: Brightens and lifts all the rich seafood notes.
- Old Bay seasoning: Instantly brings that classic seafood essence—don’t skip it!
- Garlic powder: Adds depth and a subtle aromatic note.
- Onion powder: Brings mild savoriness without overpowering the delicate seafood.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): For a burst of color and herbal freshness in every bite.
- Salt and pepper: Essential to round out and highlight all the flavors.
- Olive oil: A little drizzle on top for a beautiful finish and moisture while baking.
How to Make Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: A Decadent Dinner
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
First things first—crank your oven up to 375°F so it’s ready to go. Give your baking dish a light greasing with olive oil or even a quick spritz of cooking spray. This not only prevents sticking but also helps your fillets brown ever so slightly around the edges.
Step 2: Mix Up the Seafood Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, lump crab, softened cream cheese, mayo, Dijon, lemon juice, Old Bay, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is completely blended and luscious. The cream cheese should give it a soft, spreadable texture—if it feels too stiff, just let it sit at room temp for a few more minutes.
Step 3: Make Pockets in Your Salmon
Pat each salmon fillet dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a horizontal slit along the side to create a pocket—just big enough to hold a hearty scoop of filling. Take your time with this step! You want a generous pocket, but be careful not to cut through the other side.
Step 4: Stuff the Salmon
Scoop the creamy crab and shrimp filling into each fillet, dividing it evenly among all four. Don’t be shy—really press the filling in so the salmon is packed to the brim. If a little bit spills out, just nestle it around the sides in the baking dish.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch and Bake
Arrange your stuffed fillets in the prepared dish. Drizzle the olive oil over the tops for extra moisture and sheen. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle with extra parsley or even a dash more Old Bay. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily and the filling is hot throughout. Let everything rest for about 5 minutes—this gives the flavors a moment to settle and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: A Decadent Dinner
Garnishes
Finish your Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: A Decadent Dinner with a handful of freshly chopped parsley and a few lemon wedges on the side. If you want to get a little extra, try a sprinkle of fresh dill or a light dusting of parmesan cheese just before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
Side Dishes
This decadent dish begs for something fresh and vibrant. Roasted asparagus spears, a simple green salad, or classic garlic mashed potatoes make wonderful accompaniments. You want sides that balance the richness and let the seafood shine.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve each stuffed salmon fillet on a bed of wilted baby spinach or alongside a medley of colorful roasted vegetables for a restaurant-inspired plate. For extra elegance, drizzle with a light lemon butter sauce or serve on individual platters for a touch of fine dining at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, just transfer any remaining Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: A Decadent Dinner to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. It will stay tasty for up to two days, although it’s at its freshest when enjoyed right out of the oven.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cooled stuffed fillets tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to one month. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the fillets in a preheated 325°F oven covered loosely with foil. This ensures the filling stays creamy and the salmon doesn’t dry out. About 10 to 12 minutes should do the trick—just long enough to warm everything through.
FAQs
Can I use canned crab and shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned seafood, but try to find the highest quality available. Drain it well and gently fold it into the mixture to maintain the best texture and taste in your Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: A Decadent Dinner.
What type Main Course
Opt for center-cut, skinless fillets with a nice thickness to make stuffing easier. Atlantic salmon is super buttery, but sockeye or coho work beautifully, too.
Can I make the filling in advance?
Absolutely! The filling can be prepped and stored in the fridge up to a day ahead. Just bring it to room temperature before stuffing your salmon so it spreads easily and cooks evenly.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque all the way through. If you have a thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
Is Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: A Decadent Dinner gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as all components (like mayonnaise and seasonings) are certified gluten-free. Always double-check labels if needed.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to wow your loved ones—or just treat yourself to something truly memorable—this Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: A Decadent Dinner will not disappoint. It’s stunning on the plate, surprisingly simple to prepare, and utterly delicious every single time. Give it a try, and let every bite transport you straight to seafood heaven!
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Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: A Decadent Dinner Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a luxurious seafood experience with this Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon recipe. Succulent salmon fillets are filled with a savory mixture of shrimp, crab, and spices, creating a dish perfect for special occasions or a decadent dinner.
Ingredients
Salmon Fillets:
4 skinless salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
Seafood Filling:
1/2 cup cooked shrimp (chopped), 1/2 cup lump crab meat, 3 tablespoons cream cheese (softened), 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, salt and pepper to taste
Others:
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the filling: Combine shrimp, crab, cream cheese, mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, seasonings, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the salmon: Make a pocket in each fillet, stuff with the seafood mixture.
- Bake: Drizzle with olive oil, bake for 18–20 minutes until cooked.
- Rest and serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Top with parmesan or lemon butter sauce for extra flavor.
- Pair with roasted asparagus or garlic mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed fillet
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
