Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this crab and shrimp stuffed salmon! It’s like a party in your mouth! Imagine tender salmon fillets, perfectly cooked and bursting with a creamy, delightful filling of crab and shrimp. I love making this dish because it’s not only impressive enough for guests, but it’s also super easy to prepare. You won’t believe how simple the steps are, yet the flavors will have everyone thinking you spent hours in the kitchen. Trust me, the combination of fresh seafood with just the right seasoning makes this a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a fancy gathering, this dish steals the show every time! Get ready to savor every bite!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this crab and shrimp stuffed salmon truly shine! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each, skinless is best for easy stuffing)
- 1 cup crab meat (fresh or canned, just make sure it’s well-drained)
- 1 cup shrimp, peeled and chopped (I like to use medium-sized shrimp for a nice bite)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened, so it mixes easily—trust me, you don’t want lumps)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned, depending on your flavor preference)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed if you can, it adds a zesty punch)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or use dried if you’re in a pinch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (because garlic makes everything better!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy—seasoning brings the flavors alive!)
Having these ingredients prepped and ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable!
How to Prepare Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon
Preheat the Oven
Let’s get started by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the salmon cook evenly, making sure every bite is deliciously tender. Give your oven about 10-15 minutes to reach the right temperature before you pop your stuffed salmon in. You want it nice and hot to seal in all those flavors!
Prepare the Filling
While the oven is heating up, let’s whip up that scrumptious filling! In a large bowl, combine the crab meat, chopped shrimp, softened cream cheese, breadcrumbs, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Sprinkle in the garlic powder along with some salt and pepper to taste. Now, get in there and mix it all together until it’s well combined and creamy. You might want to taste the mixture at this point to see if you want to adjust any seasoning—feel free to add a little more lemon juice for that zesty kick if you like!
Stuff the Salmon
Now, let’s stuff those salmon fillets! Carefully take each fillet and make a pocket by slicing into the thickest part, but don’t cut all the way through. You want enough space to hold that amazing filling. Generously spoon the crab and shrimp mixture into each pocket, but be careful not to overstuff them. You want to leave a little room so the filling doesn’t spill out while it cooks. Just a nice, heaping portion will do!
Bake the Salmon
Place your stuffed salmon fillets in a greased baking dish, seam side up. Now it’s time to bake! Pop them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The filling should be bubbling and golden on top, making your kitchen smell like pure heaven. Enjoy the anticipation—it’s almost time to dig in!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the estimated nutritional data for this delicious crab and shrimp stuffed salmon! Each serving packs a punch with approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying main dish. You’ll get about 22 grams of fat, with 5 grams being saturated fat, and a hearty 30 grams of protein to keep you full and fueled. Plus, there are around 10 grams of carbohydrates and just 1 gram of sugar! Remember, these numbers are estimates, but they give you a good idea of how healthy this meal can be. Enjoy every nutritious bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This crab and shrimp stuffed salmon is truly a gem in my recipe collection, and here’s why you’re going to fall in love with it too:
- Quick Preparation: It takes just 15 minutes to prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties!
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of succulent crab and shrimp with creamy filling creates a mouthwatering taste that’s simply irresistible.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and heart-healthy fats, this dish is a delicious way to nourish your body without sacrificing flavor.
- Impressive Presentation: Stuffed salmon looks fancy and elegant, making it ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself to a special meal.
- Versatile Pairings: Serve it with a side of veggies or rice for a complete meal that fits any occasion.
Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Tips for Success
To make sure your crab and shrimp stuffed salmon turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips that I swear by:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh crab and shrimp. It makes a world of difference in flavor! If you use canned crab, make sure it’s high quality and well-drained.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the filling, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can make the mixture tough, and we want it creamy and luscious!
- Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Every oven is different, so start checking your salmon at the 20-minute mark. You want it perfectly cooked—opaque and flaking easily, but not dry.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a wedge of lemon on the plate can elevate the dish visually. It adds a pop of color and freshness!
- Let it Rest: After baking, let the salmon rest for a few minutes before serving. It helps the juices redistribute, making each bite even more succulent.
With these tips, you’ll be a pro at this recipe in no time! Enjoy every delicious moment!
Variations
One of the great things about crab and shrimp stuffed salmon is how adaptable it is! I love getting creative with this recipe, and you can too! Here are a few fun variations to try:
- Different Seafood: Swap out the crab for lobster or scallops for a luxurious twist. You can also use just shrimp if that’s what you have on hand.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the filling for a little kick. It adds a wonderful depth of flavor!
- Herb Infusions: Experiment with different herbs like dill or chives instead of parsley. Each will bring a unique freshness to your dish.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix in some shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for a gooey, melty filling that takes it to the next level!
- Asian Flair: Incorporate some soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired flavor profile that’s absolutely delightful!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas, and don’t hesitate to let your culinary creativity shine through! Enjoy the process!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover crab and shrimp stuffed salmon properly ensures you can enjoy it again! After it cools down, transfer any uneaten fillets to an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll last for about 2-3 days in the fridge, but trust me, you’ll want to eat them up before then—they’re just too delicious!
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but be careful; it can overcook quickly and lose that lovely texture. Just heat it in short bursts, checking frequently. Enjoy those tasty leftovers!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen shrimp and crab meat?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before using them in the filling. Fresh is great, but frozen works too!
What can I serve with crab and shrimp stuffed salmon?
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of fluffy rice. You can even serve it with some lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor!
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just stuff the salmon right before baking for the best results!
How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the salmon; it should flake easily and be opaque throughout. If you have a food thermometer, it should read 145°F (63°C).
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap out the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative, and you’re good to go. Enjoy your delicious meal without worry!
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon: Irresistible Delight Awaiting
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Delicious salmon fillets stuffed with a mixture of crab and shrimp, seasoned perfectly.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cup crab meat
- 1 cup shrimp, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix crab meat, chopped shrimp, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, lemon juice, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Make a pocket in each salmon fillet and stuff it with the crab and shrimp mixture.
- Place stuffed salmon in a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
Notes
- Serve with a side of vegetables or rice.
- Use fresh seafood for the best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning based on your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: crab and shrimp stuffed salmon