Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a rich, satisfying seafood dish that brings elegance to any dinner table. Flaky salmon fillets are filled with a savory mixture of crab, shrimp, and seasonings, then baked to perfection. It’s a restaurant-worthy meal that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it delivers bold seafood flavor with minimal effort. The creamy, cheesy stuffing contrasts beautifully with the tender, buttery salmon. It’s perfect for special occasions, but easy enough for a weeknight dinner. The stuffing is versatile, the cooking is straightforward, and the results are always impressive.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
salmon fillets (skinless, thick cut)
lump crab meat
small cooked shrimp, chopped
cream cheese
mayonnaise
Parmesan cheese, grated
green onions, chopped
garlic, minced
lemon juice
Old Bay seasoning
paprika
salt and black pepper
Directions
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I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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I slice a pocket into the thickest part of each salmon fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through.
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In a mixing bowl, I combine the crab meat, chopped shrimp, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning. I mix until fully combined.
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I carefully stuff each salmon fillet with the seafood mixture, packing it in generously.
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I place the stuffed fillets in a baking dish, sprinkle them with paprika, salt, and pepper, then drizzle a little oil or butter over the top.
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I bake the salmon for about 20–25 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the stuffing is hot and slightly golden.
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I finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 and takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, making the total time roughly 35 minutes.
Variations
Sometimes I add chopped spinach or bell peppers into the stuffing for extra color and nutrients. For a spicier kick, I like to include a dash of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño. When I want a lighter version, I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. And if I’m out of shrimp, I simply double the crab meat.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I place the salmon in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through. I avoid microwaving to prevent the fish from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use canned crab and shrimp?
Yes, I can use canned versions, but I always drain them well and check for shells. Fresh seafood tastes better, but canned works in a pinch.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
I sometimes substitute cream cheese with ricotta or mascarpone for a similar creamy texture.
Can I grill the stuffed salmon instead of baking?
Yes, I can grill it over medium heat using foil to keep the stuffing intact and avoid sticking.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
I check that the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F. The stuffing should also be hot and slightly golden on top.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, I often prepare the stuffing and stuff the fillets a few hours ahead, keeping them covered in the fridge until I’m ready to bake.
Conclusion
Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. It’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor, yet so simple to make. Whether I’m hosting guests or treating myself to a fancy dinner, this dish always hits the spot.

Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is a rich, satisfying seafood dish featuring flaky salmon fillets filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture of crab, shrimp, and seasonings, baked to perfection for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (skinless, thick cut)
- 1 cup lump crab meat
- ½ cup small cooked shrimp, chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice a pocket into the thickest part of each salmon fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- In a mixing bowl, combine crab meat, chopped shrimp, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix until well combined.
- Carefully stuff each salmon fillet with the seafood mixture, packing it in generously.
- Place the stuffed fillets in a baking dish, sprinkle with paprika, salt, and pepper, then drizzle with a little oil or melted butter.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the stuffing is hot and slightly golden.
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh seafood for best flavor, but canned crab and shrimp can work in a pinch.
- Add chopped spinach or bell peppers to the stuffing for extra nutrients.
- Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise for a lighter version.
- Prepare and stuff the salmon ahead of time for easy baking later.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed fillet
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
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