Stuffed salmon recipe is the kind of dish that makes you feel like a gourmet chef, even if you’re just cooking for yourself or a small group. Imagine perfectly seared salmon fillets, tender on the inside, stuffed with a creamy crab filling that is just bursting with flavor. This dish isn’t just delicious, it’s also surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion like a romantic dinner or holiday feast.
If you’ve ever thought about impressing guests with a dish that looks and tastes like it’s from a five-star restaurant, crab-stuffed salmon is the way to go. The sweet, succulent crab meat combined with the rich flavors of salmon creates a perfect harmony on your palate. And with a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.
Table of contents
Why this Stuffed Salmon Recipe Works
What makes crab-stuffed salmon such a winner is the contrast of flavors and textures. The delicate, flaky salmon is paired with the sweet, savory crab filling, creating a symphony of tastes. The crab mixture is enriched with cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, which enhance the natural sweetness of the crab without overpowering it. The result is a balanced, flavorful dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly light.
This recipe is also highly customizable. You can use different types of crab meat, depending on what’s available, such as lump crab, claw crab, or imitation crab if you prefer a more affordable option. For those with dietary preferences, you can swap the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative or use a different type of cheese like goat cheese for a tangy twist. Additionally, you can adjust the level of seasoning to suit your taste, whether you prefer a touch of heat with some chili flakes or a more subtle flavor profile.
Recipe Card
Stuffed Salmon Recipe
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium4
servings15
minutes20
minutes450
kcalA decadent stuffed salmon recipe filled with a creamy crab mixture, perfect for an indulgent dinner that’s easy to prepare yet packed with rich flavors.
Ingredients
- For the Salmon
4 salmon fillets (6-8 oz each, skinless)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving
- For the Crab stuffing
1 cup cooked crab meat, finely chopped
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon green onions, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
Directions
- Step 1: Prepare the Crab Stuffing
- In a bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, green onions, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, and garlic. Mix until smooth.
- Fold in the crab meat gently to avoid breaking it apart. Set aside.
- Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a sharp knife, make a pocket in the thickest part of each salmon fillet without cutting all the way through.
- Season the salmon with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Step 3: Stuff and Bake
- Fill each salmon fillet with the crab stuffing mixture.
- Place the stuffed salmon on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked and the top is golden.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Fresh vs. Canned Crab: Fresh crab meat is ideal, but canned crab can be used as a budget-friendly option.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing mixture up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate it.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Tips for perfect Stuffed Salmon Recipe
- Choose Fresh Crab Meat: For the best flavor, opt for fresh or frozen crab meat instead of imitation crab. Fresh crab meat makes all the difference in terms of taste and texture.
- Pat the Salmon Dry: Before stuffing the salmon fillets, pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures that the filling sticks better and that you achieve a nice, crispy exterior when you sear the fish.
- Use a Toothpick or Skewer to Secure the Filling: If you find that the filling is escaping from the salmon, use a toothpick or skewer to hold the edges of the fillet together while cooking. This keeps the filling intact and ensures that each bite is perfectly stuffed.
- Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon is best when it’s cooked just until it flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking it can cause it to dry out. Keep an eye on the fish while cooking to ensure it’s perfectly tender.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the crab stuffing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious when you assemble the dish.
Variants of Stuffed Salmon Recipe
Crab-Stuffed Salmon with Spinach
For an added layer of flavor and nutrition, incorporate spinach into the crab stuffing. Sauté fresh spinach with garlic and mix it into the crab mixture. The earthy spinach complements the sweetness of the crab and adds a burst of color.
Lobster and Crab-Stuffed Salmon
If you’re feeling extra indulgent, try mixing lobster meat with the crab filling. The combination of the two shellfish adds complexity and an even richer flavor to the dish. This variant is perfect for a special celebration or dinner party.
Cheese Lover’s Crab-Stuffed Salmon
If you’re a fan of cheese, consider adding a bit of parmesan or mozzarella to the stuffing for an extra creamy, cheesy texture. You can even sprinkle extra cheese on top of the salmon before baking it for a melty, golden finish.
Spicy Crab-Stuffed Salmon recipe
For those who like a bit of heat, mix some diced jalapeños or chili flakes into the crab stuffing. The spice balances out the richness of the salmon and adds a kick to the dish, making it even more exciting.
FAQs
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before using.
Shrimp or lobster can be used as substitutes if you prefer a different seafood flavor.
Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and skip the Parmesan.
Yes, you can grill it over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
Final Thoughts
Crab Stuffed salmon is the kind of dish that brings a bit of elegance to any meal without requiring hours of preparation. It’s versatile, delicious, and makes for a perfect centerpiece at any dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a special celebration, this recipe is sure to impress.
If you enjoyed this crab stuffed salmon recipe, you might also love our Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe, a perfect side dish to pair with this savory seafood delight!
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