If there was ever a dinner that could make you feel like you’re sitting in a fancy seaside restaurant without leaving your kitchen, this is it. Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is pure indulgence — buttery, flaky salmon fillets generously filled with a rich and creamy seafood stuffing that’s bursting with flavor. Every bite blends the sweetness of crab, the juiciness of shrimp, and the savory elegance of salmon into one unforgettable forkful.
Whether you’re hosting guests, celebrating a special night, or simply spoiling yourself (because you deserve it), this recipe brings restaurant-quality to your table with surprisingly little effort.
Why You’ll Love Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
- Seafood lovers’ dream — crab, shrimp, and salmon in one bite.
- Fancy without the fuss — looks gourmet, cooks easily.
- Customizable flavors — season to suit your taste.
- Perfect for special occasions or weeknight splurges.
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Pick thicker salmon fillets so you can cut a proper pocket for the filling.
- Use lump crab meat for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overbake — salmon is juiciest when slightly pink inside.
- Chill the stuffing for 10–15 minutes before filling to help it hold its shape.
Ingredients
1. 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
2. ½ lb lump crab meat, shells removed
3. ½ lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
4. 4 oz cream cheese, softened
5. 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
6. 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
7. 2 tablespoons lemon juice
8. 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
9. 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
10. ½ teaspoon garlic powder
11. Salt and pepper, to taste
12. 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)

Instructions
Step 1 – Preheat the Oven
Heat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2 – Prepare the Seafood Filling
In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, parsley, Old Bay, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Gently fold in crab meat and chopped shrimp. Chill for 10–15 minutes.
Step 3 – Prep the Salmon
Cut a slit lengthwise into each salmon fillet to create a pocket, being careful not to slice through the bottom.
Step 4 – Fill the Salmon
Spoon the chilled seafood filling into each pocket, pressing gently to secure.
Step 5 – Season & Bake
Place salmon on the baking sheet, brush with olive oil or butter, and season lightly. Bake 18–22 minutes until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily.
Step 6 – Serve & Enjoy
Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges for brightness.
Texture & Flavor Secrets
This recipe balances the creamy, decadent filling with the tender, flaky salmon for a mouthfeel that’s irresistible. Old Bay seasoning ties the flavors together, while fresh lemon juice keeps the richness in check.
How to Serve Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
Pair with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a simple mixed greens salad. For extra flair, drizzle with a lemon butter sauce or hollandaise.
Creative Leftover Transformations
- Seafood Pasta — Toss with linguine, olive oil, and Parmesan.
- Seafood Omelet — Fold chopped leftovers into fluffy eggs.
- Seafood Salad — Shred salmon and stuffing, mix with mayo, and serve on crackers.
Additional Tips
- Thin salmon fillets? Spread filling on top instead of stuffing.
- Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 6 hours before baking.
- For a golden top, broil for 2–3 minutes after baking.
Make It a Showstopper (Presentation Ideas)
Serve on a white platter over a bed of lemon slices, with fresh parsley for color. A light drizzle of lemon butter just before serving gives it that glossy, irresistible look.
FAQ’s
- Can I use canned crab? Yes, but fresh lump crab tastes best.
- Do I need to cook the shrimp first? No, it cooks inside the salmon.
- Can I grill instead of bake? Yes, use a fish basket or foil to secure the filling.
- Is skin-on salmon okay? Yes, it helps hold shape during baking.
- Can I freeze stuffed salmon? Best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze before baking.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Low oven heat to avoid drying.
- Can I add cheese to the filling? Parmesan or mozzarella works well.
- What if I don’t have Old Bay? Use paprika, garlic powder, and celery salt.
- How do I know it’s done? Salmon should reach 145°F internally.
- What sides work best? Roasted veggies, rice pilaf, or salad.
Conclusion
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon isn’t just a recipe — it’s an experience. Elegant, comforting, and packed with flavor, it’s the kind of dish that makes every dinner feel like a celebration.
PrintCrab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
This Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a decadent seafood dish featuring tender salmon fillets filled with a rich mixture of lump crab, shrimp, cream cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a special dinner, it’s flavorful, creamy, and elegant yet simple to prepare.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- ½ lb lump crab meat, shells removed
- ½ lb shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Gently fold in crab meat and chopped shrimp. Chill for 10–15 minutes.
- Cut a slit lengthwise into each salmon fillet to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Spoon the chilled seafood filling into each salmon pocket, pressing gently to secure.
- Place salmon on the baking sheet, brush with olive oil or melted butter, and season lightly. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily.
- Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges for extra brightness.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the filling.
- Ensure crab meat is free of shells before mixing.
- Use wild-caught salmon for the best taste and texture.
- This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed salmon fillet
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 46g
- Cholesterol: 175mg