Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Succulent Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Baked Salmon
Delight in Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon with this succulent baked recipe, perfect for a flavorful and elegant seafood feast that impresses every time. This Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Succulent Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Baked Salmon combines tender salmon fillets with a rich, savory stuffing of fresh crab and shrimp, baked to perfection for a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this recipe offers an unforgettable taste experience with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless elegance: The recipe uses simple techniques to create a restaurant-quality seafood dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to prepare.
- Bold flavor combination: The sweet crab and shrimp perfectly complement the rich, flaky salmon for an amazing balance of taste.
- Healthy and wholesome: Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, this meal nourishes your body while indulging your cravings.
- Versatile for any occasion: Perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or holiday celebrations — this dish fits right in.
- Visually stunning: Gorgeous presentation makes it ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh and straightforward ingredients is the key to making this Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Succulent Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Baked Salmon a standout meal. Each ingredient plays a vital role in enhancing texture, flavor, and color, making your cooking process simple yet rewarding.
- Fresh Salmon Fillets: Opt for skinless fillets about 6 ounces each to ensure even cooking and beautiful presentation.
- Crab Meat: Use lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture in the stuffing mixture.
- Shrimp: Finely chopped, peeled, and deveined shrimp add a delicate, briny sweetness to the filling.
- Cream Cheese: Helps bind the stuffing and adds a creamy consistency that balances the seafood.
- Lemon Zest and Juice: Provides a bright, fresh contrast that cuts through the richness of the dish perfectly.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds vibrant color and a subtle herbal note that lifts the flavor profile.
- Garlic: Just the right amount to add aromatic depth without overpowering the seafood.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: For a little crunch and structure in the stuffing.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps to brown the crust beautifully during baking.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out every flavor layer.
Variations for Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Succulent Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Baked Salmon
Feel free to personalize this classic by experimenting with ingredients and flavors that suit your preferences or dietary needs. The flexibility of this dish makes it easy to adapt without losing its delicious essence.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeño to the stuffing for some heat.
- Dairy-free option: Substitute cream cheese with mashed avocado or a vegan cream cheese alternative.
- Herbal twist: Incorporate fresh dill or tarragon instead of parsley for a different aromatic note.
- Crunchy topping: Mix chopped almonds or pecans with the breadcrumbs to add a nutty crunch.
- Shellfish swap: Try substituting shrimp with scallops or lobster meat for a decadent upgrade.
How to Make Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Succulent Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Baked Salmon
Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing
In a mixing bowl, combine the lump crab meat, finely chopped shrimp, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, lemon zest, fresh parsley, and panko breadcrumbs. Gently fold together, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, until well mixed but still chunky for texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket lengthwise in each salmon fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through. This pocket will hold the delicious crab and shrimp stuffing.
Step 3: Stuff the Fillets
Generously fill each salmon pocket with the prepared stuffing, pressing gently so the filling stays in place during baking. Use toothpicks if necessary to secure the opening.
Step 4: Season and Butter
Lightly brush the outside of each stuffed salmon fillet with melted butter, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. This step ensures a golden, succulent crust as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed fillets on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the stuffing is heated through.
Step 6: Final Touch
Once baked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets and garnish with extra parsley before serving for a bright, fresh finish.
Pro Tips for Making Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Succulent Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Baked Salmon
- Freshness matters: Use the freshest crab and shrimp available to maximize flavor and texture.
- Don’t overfill: Stuff the salmon pockets moderately to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
- Temperature control: Bake at a moderate temperature to keep the salmon moist without drying out the seafood stuffing.
- Rest before serving: Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute.
- Use toothpicks wisely: Secure fillings with toothpicks if needed, but remember to remove them before eating.
How to Serve Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Succulent Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Baked Salmon
Garnishes
Fresh herbs such as parsley or chives, along with lemon wedges, brighten the dish and add a pop of color and flavor right before serving.
Side Dishes
Pair this sumptuous seafood centerpiece with roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a light mixed green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, plate the stuffed salmon on a long platter garnished with edible flowers or citrus slices. Alternatively, serve each fillet on individual plates with drizzled lemon butter sauce for a restaurant-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Succulent Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Baked Salmon refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days to preserve freshness.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked stuffed salmon by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, storing for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes to retain moisture and avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen crab and shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture which can make the stuffing soggy.
What type of salmon is best for stuffing?
Skinless fillets like Atlantic or sockeye salmon work best because they are firm enough to hold the stuffing yet tender when baked.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed salmon fillets ahead and refrigerate them before baking, just add a few extra minutes when cooking.
Can I substitute cream cheese if I’m lactose intolerant?
Yes, try a lactose-free cream cheese or mashed avocado to provide similar creaminess without the dairy.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Final Thoughts
This Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Succulent Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Baked Salmon is an irresistible seafood dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With its vibrant flavors, elegant presentation, and straightforward preparation, it’s perfect for elevating everyday meals or creating memorable special occasions. Dive in and savor every succulent bite!
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Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Succulent Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Baked Salmon
Delight in this elegant Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon recipe that combines tender, flaky salmon fillets with a savory, creamy stuffing of fresh lump crab meat, chopped shrimp, and cream cheese, enhanced by bright lemon zest and fresh parsley. Baked to perfection, this dish is perfect for both special occasions and gourmet everyday meals, offering a healthy, protein-rich seafood feast with an impressive presentation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Seafood
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Seafood & Protein
- 4 skinless salmon fillets, about 6 ounces each
- 1 cup lump crab meat
- ½ cup finely chopped, peeled, and deveined shrimp
Stuffing & Flavorings
- ¼ cup softened cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (plus extra for serving)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for brushing)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Stuffing: In a mixing bowl, combine the lump crab meat, finely chopped shrimp, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, lemon zest, fresh parsley, and panko breadcrumbs. Gently fold together, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, until the mixture is well combined but still chunky for texture.
- Prepare the Salmon: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket lengthwise in each salmon fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through. This pocket will hold the crab and shrimp stuffing.
- Stuff the Fillets: Generously fill each salmon pocket with the prepared stuffing, pressing gently so the filling stays in place during baking. Use toothpicks if necessary to secure the opening.
- Season and Butter: Lightly brush the outside of each stuffed salmon fillet with melted butter, then sprinkle with salt and pepper for a golden, succulent crust when baked.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed fillets on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the stuffing is heated through.
- Final Touch: Once baked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets and garnish with extra parsley before serving for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- Use the freshest crab and shrimp available to maximize flavor and texture.
- Do not overfill the salmon pockets to prevent the stuffing from spilling out during baking.
- Bake at a moderate temperature to keep the salmon moist without drying out the stuffing.
- Let the salmon rest a few minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute.
- If using toothpicks to secure the stuffing, remember to remove them before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed salmon fillet
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
Keywords: crab stuffed salmon, shrimp stuffed salmon, baked salmon recipe, seafood stuffed salmon, healthy seafood dinner, elegant salmon dish
