Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

Introduction

Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a luxurious seafood dish that combines the rich, buttery flavor of salmon with a decadent crab and shrimp stuffing. Perfect for special occasions, holiday dinners, or when you simply want to impress, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your table.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Seafood-stuffed fish dishes have roots in coastal cuisines worldwide, where fresh catches were often layered, stuffed, or baked together for maximum flavor. In American fine dining—especially along the East and Gulf coasts—stuffed salmon has become a hallmark entrée, symbolizing indulgence and culinary elegance. Combining salmon with crab and shrimp highlights the abundance of the sea, creating a dish that feels celebratory and timeless.

Ingredients Quantity

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on)
• 6 oz lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
• 6 oz cooked shrimp, chopped
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or seafood seasoning)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Optional Additions

• Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper for spice
• Swap breadcrumbs for crushed Ritz crackers for a buttery flavor
• Top with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of paprika before baking
• Serve with a drizzle of garlic butter sauce or hollandaise

Tips for Success

• Use fresh salmon fillets with enough thickness to cut a pocket for stuffing.
• Don’t overmix the stuffing—keep it light so the crab and shrimp shine.
• Avoid overbaking salmon; it’s best when moist and flaky (145°F internal temperature).
• Let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving so the juices redistribute.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Prepare the salmon fillets: Using a sharp knife, cut a slit lengthwise down the center of each fillet to form a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
3. In a bowl, combine crab meat, chopped shrimp, breadcrumbs, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan, green onions, lemon juice, Dijon, Old Bay, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
4. Spoon the seafood stuffing into each salmon pocket, pressing lightly to secure.
5. Place the stuffed salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish. Brush tops with olive oil or melted butter.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until salmon is flaky and cooked through (internal temperature 145°F).
7. Garnish with extra parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Description

Each bite of Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a symphony of flavors: the rich, tender salmon contrasts beautifully with the creamy, savory crab and shrimp stuffing. The herbs and lemon brighten the dish, while the Parmesan and cream cheese bring just the right touch of indulgence.

Nutritional Information (per serving, 1 of 4)

• Calories: ~430
• Protein: 42g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Sugar: 1g
• Fiber: <1g

Conclusion and Recommendation

This dish is perfect for a romantic dinner, a festive holiday spread, or even a weekend family meal when you want something special. It pairs beautifully with roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp garden salad.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

To keep it lighter, use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise, whole-grain breadcrumbs, and reduced-fat cream cheese. You’ll still enjoy the indulgent flavor while making it a little more waistline-friendly.