Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon 🦀🍤🐟

If you’re looking for a show-stopping seafood dish that combines elegance with ease, this Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is the ultimate recipe. Imagine a tender, buttery salmon fillet stuffed with a creamy crab mixture, seared to golden perfection, then topped with juicy shrimp and a fresh lemon-herb drizzle. It’s the kind of dish that looks restaurant-worthy but is simple enough to make at home in under an hour. 🌿✨

Why This Recipe Works 💡

• Perfect balance of rich salmon, sweet crab, and juicy shrimp.
• Quick and easy prep—yet impressive for holidays and dinner parties.
• Light lemon-herb drizzle keeps the dish bright and refreshing.
• High in protein, omega-3s, and healthy fats.

Ingredients You’ll Need 🛒

For the Salmon

• 1 large salmon fillet, butterflied
• 6–8 jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 Tbsp olive oil (for searing)
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Crab Stuffing

• 1 cup lump crab meat
• 2 Tbsp cream cheese, softened
• 1 Tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

For the Lemon-Herb Drizzle

• 2 Tbsp melted butter
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Juice & zest of 1 lemon
• 1 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions 👩‍🍳

1. Make the Crab Stuffing

In a bowl, combine crab meat, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, breadcrumbs, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice. Mix until creamy but slightly chunky. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Salmon

Butterfly the salmon fillet and season with salt and pepper. Spread the crab mixture evenly inside the salmon, then fold it closed.

3. Sear the Salmon

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed salmon for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a baking dish.

4. Roast with Shrimp

Arrange shrimp on top of the salmon. Roast in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes until shrimp turn pink and salmon is fully cooked.

5. Make the Lemon-Herb Drizzle

In a small saucepan, melt butter with olive oil and garlic. Stir in lemon juice, zest, dill, and parsley. Drizzle over the salmon before serving.

Chef’s Expert Tips 👨‍🍳

• Chef Gordon Ramsay: “Always let the salmon rest for 5 minutes before slicing—it keeps it juicy and flavorful.”
• Ina Garten: “Use fresh crab meat whenever possible for the best flavor.”
• Bobby Flay: “Finish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika for depth and color.”
• Ree Drummond: “Serve with garlic mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus for a complete meal.”

Nutrition & Health Benefits 🥗

Health Tips & Safety Considerations ⚠️

• Always check that salmon reaches an internal temp of 145°F (63°C) for food safety.
• Choose wild-caught salmon when possible for higher omega-3s and lower toxins.
• Use jumbo shrimp for easy layering and elegant presentation.
• Pair with a light salad or roasted veggies for balance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ❓

1. Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before stuffing.

2. Can I substitute imitation crab?

It’s possible, but lump crab meat gives a much better flavor.

3. Can I grill instead of roast?

Yes! Wrap in foil and grill over medium heat for 20 minutes.

4. What side dishes go best with this?

Garlic mashed potatoes, lemon rice, or roasted asparagus pair perfectly.

5. Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the stuffed salmon a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.

6. How do I reheat leftovers?

Warm in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes—avoid microwaving to prevent drying out.

7. Can I make it dairy-free?

Use vegan cream cheese and mayonnaise for a lighter version.

8. What wine pairs best with this dish?

A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements it beautifully.

9. Can I add cheese to the stuffing?

Yes, Parmesan or Gruyère add a rich, nutty flavor.

10. Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Yes, cook at 375°F for 15 minutes, checking halfway through.

Related Recipes You’ll Love 🍴

• Easy Lemon Butter Salmon
• Garlic Butter Shrimp
• Classic Maryland Crab Cakes

Final Thoughts 💡

This Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is an unforgettable seafood experience—perfect for holidays, romantic dinners, or simply treating yourself. With layers of flavor from creamy crab stuffing, golden salmon, and buttery shrimp, it’s a dish that wows every single time. 🦀🍤🐟