Name: Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 2 large 16 oz filets Wild Caught Salmon; to taste salt; to taste pepper; 1 tbsp Old Bay; 1 8 oz cup Jumbo Lump Crab; 1/2 lb Shrimp; 4 oz cream cheese; 2 tbsp lemon juice fresh squeezed; 1/4 cup parsley chopped; 2 tbsp green onions; 4 cloves garlic cloves minced; 1 tsp cardamom; 1 tsp Badia complete seasoning; 1 tsp adobo seasoning; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp paprika separated; 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tbsp grated parmesan

There’s just something magical about a show-stopping seafood entrée, and this Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is truly a celebration of ocean flavors and creamy decadence. Imagine tender, flaky wild-caught salmon enveloping a rich stuffing brimming with sweet jumbo lump crab, succulent shrimp, fresh herbs, and a gloriously melty cheese blend—all kissed by hints of citrus and spice. It’s an elegant dish that’s way easier to pull off than you’d think, yet impressive enough to make any dinner feel extra special. This recipe will quickly become a favorite, whether you’re new to seafood dishes or a seasoned home cook looking for something memorable.

Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beautiful thing about Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is how each ingredient is vital—building layers of flavor, bringing vibrant color, or offering that perfect creamy texture. Don’t skip on the details here, because every addition has a role in turning out a dish worthy of your finest plates.

Wild Caught Salmon: Look for two large 16 oz filets; the freshness and rich flavor make all the difference as the foundation of the recipe.
Jumbo Lump Crab: An 8 oz cup of sweet, tender crab elevates the stuffing with a decadent seafood touch.
Shrimp: Half a pound, lightly seasoned and par-cooked, brings juicy texture and even more oceanic goodness.
Cream Cheese: Four ounces add creamy richness, helping hold the stuffing together.
Lemon Juice (fresh squeezed): Two tablespoons brighten the flavors, cutting through the richness with a refreshing zing.
Fresh Parsley (chopped): About a quarter cup adds color and herby freshness.
Green Onions: Two tablespoons lend sharpness and a gentle bite.
Garlic (minced): Four cloves for that familiar aromatic depth.
Old Bay: One tablespoon, reserved for seasoning the salmon filets, brings signature seafood seasoning and a bit of nostalgia.
Cardamom: A teaspoon for subtle sweet warmth that elevates the whole flavor profile.
Badia Complete Seasoning: Another teaspoon to boost savory notes—don’t skip it if you want authentic restaurant-level taste.
Adobo Seasoning: One teaspoon to add Earthy herbal undertones.
Onion Powder: A teaspoon for even more aromatics, layered into the hearts of the stuffing.
Paprika (separated): Two teaspoons give both stuffing and shrimp a hint of smokiness and beautiful color.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: A quarter cup melts beautifully for oozy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
Grated Parmesan: Two tablespoons, for a salty, nutty finish woven through the stuffing.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for perfect seasoning all around—taste as you go!

How to Make Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees and taking a few minutes to prep your aromatics—mince the garlic, and finely chop both parsley and green onions. Season your shrimp with salt and pepper, then set them aside while you line up the rest of your ingredients. A little organization here will make the whole process smooth and fun!

Step 2: Par-cook the Shrimp

Set a pan over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted and bubbling, toss in the minced garlic and one teaspoon of paprika. Let that aromatic combo sizzle together for about thirty seconds (enjoy the smells!), making sure the garlic doesn’t burn. Add your seasoned shrimp and cook just until they’re pinked up and lightly browned—about three minutes. You want them almost cooked through, as they’ll finish in the oven.

Step 3: Prepare the Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Filling

Pull out a big mixing bowl for the stuffing. Start by adding your cream cheese, freshly chopped parsley, green onions, and that zingy fresh lemon juice. Mix gently to soften the cream cheese and evenly distribute the green and citrus flavors. Next, fold in the jumbo lump crab, the par-cooked shrimp, mozzarella, Parmesan, and all the seasonings—except for the Old Bay, which you’ll reserve for the salmon filets. Stir gently until everything’s evenly incorporated (avoid overmixing to keep the crab chunky).

Step 4: Assemble the Salmon

Grab an oven-safe pan and season both salmon filets with a generous sprinkle of salt, pepper, and Old Bay. Lay one filet flat and heap the stuffing from corner to corner, creating a delicious seafood “sandwich.” Top with the second salmon filet, nestling it gently over the stuffing. Make sure to reserve a scoop of the stuffing to crown the fish midway through cooking—it brings extra moisture and color.

Step 5: Bake and Broil

Dot the top of your assembled salmon with a tablespoon of butter for golden richness, then bake uncovered for twenty minutes. After the initial bake, remove the salmon from the oven and carefully spread your reserved stuffing over the top. Pop the pan back in under the broiler for an additional five minutes to crisp up the topping and achieve an irresistible browned finish.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is bubbling hot and beautifully golden, top it off with a handful of fresh parsley for vibrant color. Slice and serve while it’s still warm, with your choice of complementary sides.

How to Serve Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

Garnishes

Finish your Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon with a flurry of freshly chopped parsley, an extra squeeze of lemon, or even a few delicate lemon twists for a pop of color. A light dusting of paprika just before serving can also highlight the smoky warmth inside—those little touches make your dish restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

This rich main dish pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides—think roasted asparagus, garlic sautéed green beans, or buttery broccolini. For a heartier meal, pile the salmon alongside creamy mashed potatoes, a fragrant wild rice pilaf, or a crisp green salad brightened with citrus vinaigrette. The goal is balance; let the Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon remain the star!

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining or want to make dinner extra special, slice the salmon into thick “steaks” and arrange neatly on a platter, then spoon some of the stuffing that escaped onto the pan right back over the top. For an elegant touch, set each serving atop a swirl of herbed yogurt or a bed of lightly dressed greens, then scatter microgreens or edible flowers around the plate for a look worthy of a fancy restaurant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon keeps surprisingly well! Let the salmon cool to room temperature, then wrap tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. It’ll remain delicious in the fridge for up to two days—just remember that seafood can be sensitive to long storage times, so enjoy promptly for best flavor.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze leftovers or prep ahead, wrap the baked, cooled salmon snugly in plastic wrap and then foil, or use an airtight freezer-safe container. It’s best used within one month for optimal freshness and taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to prevent drying out.

Reheating

The gentlest way to reheat Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is in a low oven—try 300 degrees, covered loosely with foil, for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. (A microwave can work too, but cover with a damp paper towel and use short bursts to avoid drying the fish or overcooking the stuffing.) Serve hot and enjoy!

FAQs

Can I use frozen seafood for the stuffing?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the crab and shrimp thoroughly before cooking, as excess moisture can make the stuffing watery. Frozen seafood is often flash-frozen at peak freshness, so it’s a great choice when fresh isn’t available.

How do I know when my stuffed salmon is cooked through?

Look for the salmon to flake easily with a fork and turn opaque; an instant-read thermometer should register 145 degrees in the thickest part. The stuffing will be golden and bubbling, with beautiful browning on top after broiling.

Can I make Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon ahead for a party?

Yes! You can assemble the stuffed salmon up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. Bake just before your guests arrive, giving it a few extra minutes to come to temperature if starting cold from the fridge.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese in the stuffing?

If you prefer, you can swap in soft goat cheese or whipped ricotta for a slightly tangier flavor. Mascarpone cheese also works beautifully for an ultra-creamy texture—you’ll still get the signature richness that makes the stuffing so irresistible.

Can I make this recipe without cheese for a dairy-free version?

You definitely can! Try using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and skip the shredded cheese. The result will still be deliciously moist and packed with seafood flavor—consider adding a little extra lemon juice or a spoonful of Greek-style plant yogurt for creaminess.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about sharing Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon that brings a little extra excitement to the table—it’s a dish that looks impressive, tastes luxurious, and is surprisingly simple to master. Give this recipe a try and watch your family and friends light up with every bite. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!