Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe

Crab & shrimp stuffed salmon is truly seafood heaven on a plate. Juicy wild-caught salmon is layered with a rich, cheesy stuffing made with jumbo lump crab, shrimp, herbs, and spices, then baked until perfectly tender. It’s an impressive yet surprisingly approachable dish that’s perfect for holidays, date nights, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines three seafood favorites—salmon, shrimp, and crab—into one decadent entrée. The cream cheese base makes the stuffing luscious, while fresh parsley, lemon, and garlic brighten the flavors. With seasoning blends like Old Bay, paprika, and adobo, every bite is bold and satisfying. The presentation is show-stopping, but the method is simple enough for a weeknight splurge.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Wild-caught salmon fillets

• Jumbo lump crab meat

• Shrimp

• Cream cheese

• Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Green onions, chopped

• Garlic, minced

• Old Bay seasoning

• Cardamom

• Complete seasoning

• Adobo seasoning

• Onion powder

• Paprika

• Shredded mozzarella cheese

• Grated parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper

• Butter

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Mince garlic, chop parsley and green onions. Season shrimp with salt and pepper.

2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add garlic and 1 tsp paprika, cooking for 30 seconds. Add shrimp and cook for 3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.

3. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, parsley, green onions, and lemon juice. Mix gently. Add crab, shrimp, mozzarella, parmesan, and remaining seasonings (except Old Bay). Mix until combined, without over-mixing.

4. Season both salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and Old Bay. Place stuffing over one fillet, corner to corner. Top with the second fillet. Reserve some stuffing for topping later.

5. Place salmon in an oven-safe pan, dot with butter, and bake for 20 minutes. Remove, spread reserved stuffing on top, and broil for 5 minutes.

6. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Grilled: Cook on a cedar plank on the grill for a smoky flavor.

• Dip-style stuffing: Use the filling on its own as a hot seafood dip with crackers or bread.

• Single-serve portions: Instead of stacking two fillets, slice one thick fillet and stuff with crab-shrimp mixture for individual servings.

• Spicy twist: Add cayenne or crushed red pepper for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheat: Warm gently in the oven at 300°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving to prevent the salmon from drying out.

• Freezing: Not recommended, as seafood texture may suffer once thawed.

FAQs

Can I use imitation crab instead of lump crab?

Yes, but lump crab gives the best flavor and texture. Imitation crab will work if you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative.

What type of salmon is best?

Wild-caught salmon works best because it has a firm texture and rich flavor that balances the creamy stuffing.

Do I have to use cream cheese?

Cream cheese helps bind the stuffing and keeps it creamy, but you could substitute with ricotta or mascarpone for a lighter version.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the stuffing and season the salmon a day ahead. Assemble and bake just before serving.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F at its thickest point.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely, pat dry, and season before cooking.

What sides go best with this dish?

Steamed asparagus, roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or rice pilaf pair beautifully.

Can I use skin-on salmon?

Yes, but skinless fillets are easier to stuff and layer. If using skin-on, place the skin side down on the bottom fillet.

What if I don’t have Old Bay seasoning?

You can substitute with a mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne.

Can I broil for longer than 5 minutes?

Only broil until the top is lightly golden. Longer broiling can overcook the salmon.

Conclusion

Crab & shrimp stuffed salmon is a seafood-lover’s dream, combining rich flavors, creamy stuffing, and perfectly baked salmon in one elegant dish. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare yet worthy of special occasions. Serve it with your favorite sides and watch it become the star of any dinner table.

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