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Elegant crab and shrimp stuffed salmon dish served on a plate.

Crab Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

This luxurious Crab Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is the perfect combination of rich flavors and elegant presentation. Perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Seafood
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon
  • 4 pieces fresh salmon fillets Choose fatty cuts; they stay juicier and are easier to stuff.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter Provides moisture and richness.
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice Brightens and tenderizes the salmon.
  • 1 tsp salt Fundamental seasoning.
  • 1 tsp black pepper Fundamental seasoning.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Enhances salmon’s natural aroma.
  • 1 tsp paprika Adds color and mild smokiness.
For the Crab & Shrimp Stuffing
  • 1 cup lump crab meat Sweet seafood richness.
  • 1 cup chopped shrimp Juicy texture that complements crab.
  • 4 tbsp cream cheese Creamy binding for stuffing.
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise or sour cream Adds smoothness and flavor depth.
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan Adds nutty, salty richness.
  • 1 clove garlic (minced) Fresh aroma.
  • 2 tbsp chopped green onions Provides bright contrast.
  • 2 tbsp finely diced celery Adds crunch and texture balance.
  • 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning Essential seafood flavor.
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning Adds heat and smokiness.
  • 1 tsp lemon zest Fragrant and fresh.
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley Herbal lift.
  • to taste salt & white pepper Balanced seasoning.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat dry the salmon using paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Create the salmon pocket by gently slitting the side of each fillet with a sharp knife.
  3. Mix olive oil (or melted butter), lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture inside the pocket and on the outside of the salmon. Let rest for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Chop the shrimp into small pieces to ensure they mix evenly.
  5. In a bowl, combine crab meat, chopped shrimp, cream cheese, and mayo or sour cream to make the stuffing.
  6. Add garlic, green onions, celery, Old Bay seasoning, Cajun seasoning, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan to the stuffing. Gently fold in the ingredients.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before stuffing.
Cooking
  1. Open each salmon pocket and spoon 2-3 tbsp of the stuffing into each fillet. Secure the pocket gently without overfilling.
  2. Brush the top of the stuffed salmon with butter to add shine.
  3. Optionally, for deeper caramelization, heat a pan and add butter with herbs. Quickly sear the salmon skin-side down for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (205°C). Place lemon slices on top for aromatic steam during roasting. Butter-baste halfway through cooking.
  5. Check the internal temperature of the salmon; it should read 125-130°F (51-54°C) for perfect tenderness.
  6. Once cooked, let the salmon rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
  7. Garnish the salmon with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon, and finish with a drizzle of garlic butter.

Notes

You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and keep it chilled for ease. This dish can be grilled as well, just be gentle with the salmon to avoid it breaking apart.