If you’re looking for a show-stopper that’s effortless to pull off, allow me to introduce you to the Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Elegant Seafood Meal. Every bite is rich and irresistible, with juicy salmon enveloping a luscious creamy filling packed with sweet crab, tender shrimp, herbs, and just the right amount of savory zing. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or simply want to treat yourself on a weeknight, this dish is pure seafood magic—without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things refreshingly simple, using core ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the velvety cream cheese and zesty lemon to delicate seafood and a crispy panko topping, every element plays a vital role in building both flavor and texture.
- Salmon fillets: Choose center-cut, skinless fillets for easy stuffing and even cooking.
- Lump crab meat: Adds sweetness and luxury—double-check for shells for the best texture.
- Cooked small shrimp: Chop these up for a burst of ocean flavor in every forkful.
- Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the filling its irresistible creamy base.
- Mayonnaise: Balances richness and helps everything come together.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory depth and a light, cheesy backbone to the stuffing.
- Panko breadcrumbs: For structure and a hint of crunch.
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the filling and cuts through the richness.
- Old Bay seasoning: The classic seafood spice—a must for that unmistakable flavor.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Lends freshness and color, both inside and as a garnish.
- Minced garlic: Offers a punch of savory aroma.
- Olive oil: Drizzled over the top for added moisture and a touch of golden finish.
- Salt and pepper: Let the seafood flavors shine by seasoning thoughtfully.
How to Make Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Elegant Seafood Meal
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this makes cleanup a breeze and protects those delicate salmon fillets as they cook to perfection.
Step 2: Create the Crab & Shrimp Filling
In a medium bowl, gently mix together the lump crab meat, chopped shrimp, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, parsley, and minced garlic. Take your time to blend until the mixture is creamy and you see tasty chunks of crab and shrimp in every spoonful. This is the heart of your Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Elegant Seafood Meal!
Step 3: Slice and Season the Salmon
With a sharp knife, make a deep pocket in each salmon fillet by slicing horizontally, but don’t go all the way through. Now season each fillet, inside and out, with just enough salt and pepper to highlight their natural flavor. These little pockets will hold all that luscious seafood stuffing.
Step 4: Stuff the Salmon
Spoon the creamy crab and shrimp filling into each salmon pocket, dividing it evenly among all four fillets. Don’t worry if a bit of stuffing is peeking out—these rustic edges get golden and delicious in the oven!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Arrange your stuffed salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and give them a loving drizzle of olive oil. Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork and the filling will be bubbling and golden. Remove and let them rest a minute before serving your Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Elegant Seafood Meal hot and fresh.
How to Serve Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Elegant Seafood Meal
Garnishes
A little extra parsley sprinkled on top invigorates the plate with color, and an extra squeeze of lemon or some lemon wedges on the side adds a bright finishing touch. If you want to get fancy, a dusting of Old Bay or a drizzle of herb oil is always welcome.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides. Try roasted asparagus, garlicky green beans, or a soft rice pilaf to soak up the juices. A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of this Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Elegant Seafood Meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a bistro-inspired approach, plate the stuffed salmon atop a bed of sautéed spinach or along a vibrant beet puree. Stack your sides for restaurant-worthy elevation, or serve in individual ramekins for an intimate touch at the table—there are so many ways to showcase this elegant seafood dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra servings (lucky you!), store cooled Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Elegant Seafood Meal fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors settle beautifully, making for a fantastic next-day lunch.
Freezing
You can freeze the stuffed and baked salmon for up to two months. Wrap each cooled fillet tightly in foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently so the texture remains perfect.
Reheating
Reheat leftover fillets in a 325°F (160°C) oven, covered with foil to keep them moist, for about 10–12 minutes until warmed through. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the oven preserves that just-baked feeling for this elegant seafood meal.
FAQs
Can I use canned crab or imitation crab instead of fresh lump crab meat?
Yes, you can! While lump crab meat offers the best flavor and texture, high-quality canned crab (drained well) or even imitation crab in a pinch can work for this Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Elegant Seafood Meal. Just be sure to adjust for any added saltiness.
What if I don’t have Old Bay seasoning?
No problem—try a blend of paprika, celery salt, a dash of cayenne, black pepper, and a pinch of dried mustard for a homemade alternative. It won’t be exactly the same, but you’ll capture that classic seafood spice spirit.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The only gluten-containing ingredient here is the panko breadcrumbs, so simply swap in your favorite gluten-free panko or cracker substitute, and the entire Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Elegant Seafood Meal becomes gluten-free without sacrificing flavor or crunch.
Can I prepare the stuffed salmon ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed salmon up to a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate the stuffed, unbaked fillets, then bake just before you’re ready to serve. This makes entertaining so stress-free.
What wines pair well with this dish?
Bright, crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or a well-chilled Chardonnay are lovely partners for this elegant seafood meal. Their acidity cuts through the rich filling and highlights every layer of flavor in the Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Elegant Seafood Meal.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Elegant Seafood Meal enough when you want a dish that delivers both wow-factor and comfort. It’s surprisingly easy, truly stunning, and best of all, every bite is a mini celebration. Gather your loved ones, pour a glass of something special, and enjoy this seafood masterpiece—because you deserve it!
Print
Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Elegant Seafood Meal Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a luxurious seafood experience with this Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon recipe. Succulent salmon fillets are filled with a delectable mixture of lump crab meat, shrimp, and a blend of cheeses and spices, baked to perfection for an elegant main course.
Ingredients
Salmon Fillets:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
Seafood Stuffing:
- 1/2 cup lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/2 cup cooked small shrimp, chopped
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare stuffing: In a medium bowl, mix crab meat, shrimp, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan, panko, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, parsley, and garlic.
- Prepare salmon: Cut a pocket in each salmon fillet, season with salt and pepper, then stuff with seafood mixture.
- Bake: Place stuffed fillets on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 18–22 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley or lemon wedges and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Fresh dill can be used instead of parsley.
- This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or rice pilaf.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed fillet
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
