Decadent. Buttery. Luxurious. These are just a few words to describe the dish that combines the best of land and sea. Say hello to Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon, an irresistible blend of creamy crab filling, perfectly cooked salmon, and tender roasted shrimp, finished with a savory lemon herb butter.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a special meal, this recipe is a guaranteed show-stopper. Here’s everything you need to know to create this seafood masterpiece!
Ingredients for the Salmon 🛒
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare the star of your dish, a moist and flavorful salmon fillet that sets the stage for the decadent stuffing.
- 1 large salmon fillet (butterflied)
- 6–8 jumbo shrimp (peeled & deveined)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Ingredients for the Crab & Herb Stuffing
This creamy, flavorful filling takes your salmon to a whole new level.
- 1 cup lump crab meat
- 2 tbsp cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme (chopped)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt & pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
Follow these simple steps to bring this delectable dish to life.
Step 1: Prepare the Crab Filling
Start by combining all the stuffing ingredients in a bowl. Mix the lump crab meat with softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste, then mix until creamy and well-combined. This filling should be smooth but still hold its shape.
Step 2: Butterfly & Stuff the Salmon
To butterfly the salmon, carefully slice it horizontally, making sure not to cut all the way through. Open it to lay flat like a book. Spoon the crab stuffing onto one side, then fold the other side over. If necessary, use toothpicks to secure the edges.
Step 3: Sear the Salmon
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed salmon on each side for 2 minutes, until it forms a golden crust.
Step 4: Top with Shrimp & Bake
Arrange the shrimp across the top of the salmon, then transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and the shrimp are pink and tender.
Step 5: Add a Finishing Touch
Drizzle the salmon with lemon herb butter for added flavor. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus.
Tips for the Perfect Dish 🌟
- Use fresh seafood: Fresh crab and jumbo shrimp will elevate the taste of this dish. If fresh isn’t available, make sure to use high-quality frozen alternatives.
- Don’t overstuff: While the crab filling is tempting, overstuffing makes the salmon harder to cook evenly. Aim for a moderate layer.
- Test for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Season generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning your salmon and crab mixture. A good balance of herbs, spices, and a touch of citrus can enhance the flavors.
- Preheat your oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the dish inside to ensure even cooking.
- Rest before serving: Allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain its juices and ensures a moist, flavorful bite.
Variations to Try 🤩
Make this recipe your own with these creative twists!
- Add Heat: Mix a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes into the crab filling for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan on top before baking for a crunchy, cheesy crust.
- Swap the Protein: Try this stuffing in chicken breast for a surf-and-turf-inspired twist.
- Herb Lover’s Delight: Add fresh chopped herbs like dill, parsley, or chives to the crab mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate a bit of lemon or orange zest into the filling for a bright, tangy note.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in the crab stuffing to cater to dietary needs.
- Smoky Surprise: Incorporate a dash of smoked paprika or a drizzle of liquid smoke for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Mistakes to Avoid 🚫
- Skipping the sear: Searing locks in flavor and adds a beautiful golden crust. Don’t skip this step!
- Using cold ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure the stuffing mixes smoothly.
- Overcooking: Salmon is delicate and dries out easily, so keep an eye on the cook time and take it out as soon as it’s done.
- Overstuffing the fillets: Adding too much filling can cause it to spill out during cooking, leading to a messy presentation and uneven cooking. Use just enough to fill the pocket comfortably.
- Neglecting seasoning: Properly season both the salmon and the filling to enhance the overall flavor. Under-seasoned dishes can taste bland, even with high-quality ingredients.
- Forgetting to preheat the pan or oven: Starting with a cold pan or oven can result in uneven cooking and a less desirable texture. Ensure your cooking surface is heated to the correct temperature before adding the salmon.
- Not checking for pin bones: Take the time to run your fingers over the salmon fillets to check for any remaining pin bones. These can be unpleasant for diners and are easily removed with tweezers.
Health Benefits of Salmon 🐟
Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s packed with health benefits too!
- Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon supports heart health and brain function.
- High-Quality Protein: Salmon and shrimp provide lean protein to keep you full longer.
- Good Source of Vitamins: Salmon is loaded with B vitamins, potassium, and selenium, essential nutrients for overall health.
- Supports Healthy Skin: The high levels of omega-3 fatty acids in salmon contribute to radiant, healthy skin by reducing inflammation and moisturizing from within.
- Boosts Immune System: Selenium and other nutrients in salmon help to strengthen the immune system, protecting against illness.
- Improves Eye Health: The omega-3s and vitamin A in salmon play a crucial role in maintaining good vision and reducing the risk of eye-related diseases.
- Promotes Strong Bones: The combination of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids in salmon aids in improving bone health and density.
- Enhances Mood: The omega-3s in salmon may also help combat symptoms of depression and anxiety, promoting a more positive mental state.
Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Oven-safe Baking Dish
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large salmon fillet butterflied
- 6–8 jumbo shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 cup lump crab meat
- 2 tbsp cream cheese softened
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Optional for Serving
- lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, mix together the crab meat, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Step 2: Butterfly the salmon fillet by slicing it horizontally to create a pocket. Fill the center with the crab mixture and fold to close. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Step 3: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed salmon for 2 minutes per side until lightly browned. Place shrimp on top and transfer to oven.
- Step 4: Bake for 15–18 minutes, until shrimp are pink and salmon is cooked through. Drizzle with lemon herb butter and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
Nutrition
FAQ
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the crab stuffing and butterfly the salmon a day in advance. Store them in separate containers in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
What sides go well with Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon?
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Be sure to check the thickest part of the fillet for accuracy.
Can I use imitation crab or shrimp?
Yes, imitation crab or shrimp can be used as a more budget-friendly alternative. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may differ slightly from using fresh seafood.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Certainly! Substitute the cream cheese and any dairy-based ingredients with dairy-free alternatives, such as almond or coconut-based cream cheese, to make this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet.
Enjoy Your Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Delight 🌊
Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is an elegant, flavor-packed dinner that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether it’s a weeknight indulgence or the highlight of a dinner party, this dish will leave everyone impressed and satisfied.