Create a rich and flavorful Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon at home with creamy Boursin cheese, lump crab meat, and succulent shrimp. Ready in under 30 minutes for an elegant, restaurant-quality meal.
Looking for an impressive seafood dinner without the need to dine out? Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon offers a deliciously creamy and flavorful option that turns ordinary salmon into a luxurious meal. Packed with lump crab meat, shrimp, Parmesan cheese, and a kick of Cajun seasoning, this dish is easy enough to prepare at home, yet it looks and tastes like something straight out of a fine restaurant.
Pair this decadent salmon with lighter sides like Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds to create a balanced meal. For a perfect salmon-themed night, consider trying our Cajun Honey Butter Salmon, which pairs beautifully with many of the same flavors.
Key Ingredients
Below are the key ingredients for creating the Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon:
Stuffed Salmon:
- Salmon Fillets (4, 7 oz each): Fresh fillets for the best flavor.
- Avocado/Olive Oil (2 tbsp, divided): Helps to sear and flavor the salmon.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Smoked Paprika (½ tsp + more for shrimp): Adds a smoky flavor.
- Cajun Seasoning (1 tsp + more for shrimp): Adds a spicy kick.
- Frozen Spinach (4 oz, thawed): Squeeze out excess water before using.
- Boursin Shallot & Chive Cheese (5 oz): Creamy cheese to enhance flavor.
- Jalapeno (1, deseeded and diced): For a mild heat.
- Lump Crab Meat (8 oz): Adds a meaty texture and rich flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, grated): Adds a salty, umami depth.
- Garlic (2 tsp, minced): For added flavor.
- Medium Shrimp (12-16, peeled and cleaned): Used to top the salmon.
Cajun Butter Sauce:
- Unsalted Butter (2 tbsp, melted): Forms the base of the sauce.
- Lemon Juice (from 1 lemon): Adds brightness.
- Cajun Seasoning (¼ tsp): Enhances the flavor.
- Smoked Paprika (¼ tsp): Complements the smoky taste of the salmon.
Equipment Needed
To make Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon, you’ll need:
- Large Baking Sheet: Lined with parchment for baking the salmon.
- Mixing Bowls: To combine ingredients for the stuffing and shrimp.
- Sharp Knife: For making slits in the salmon fillets.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
- Total Time: 27-30 minutes
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Follow these steps to make the Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon:
Prepare the Salmon and Filling
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season the Salmon:
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of oil over the salmon fillets. Rub with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Cajun seasoning on both sides.
- Using a sharp knife, make a deep cut in the center of each fillet, cutting about two-thirds deep but not all the way through. Set aside.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Squeeze any excess liquid out of the thawed spinach. In a medium-sized bowl, mix the spinach, Boursin cheese, jalapeno, crab meat, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble and Bake
- Stuff the Salmon:
- Fill the slits in the salmon fillets with the crab mixture. Top each fillet with the seasoned shrimp.
- Bake the Salmon:
- Place the stuffed salmon on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with the Cajun butter sauce (made by combining melted butter, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika).
- Bake in the oven for about 15-17 minutes, until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Serve the Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon with lemon wedges for added brightness.
Tips and Tricks
- Quality Salmon: Fresh, wild-caught salmon works best for this recipe. Ensure that it’s thick enough to easily make slits for the stuffing.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t skimp on the Cajun seasoning—it adds a lot of flavor to the salmon and the shrimp.
- Clean Cuts: Use a sharp knife to make the slit in the salmon for a neat, easy stuffing process.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 580 kcal per serving
- Protein: 55g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 8g This dish is packed with high-quality protein and healthy fats, making it both delicious and nutritious.
FAQs
- Q: What type of salmon works best for stuffing?
A: Fresh, wild-caught salmon (such as king or Atlantic salmon) is ideal. Ensure it’s thick enough to easily make a slit for the stuffing. - Q: Can I use cream cheese instead of Boursin?
A: Yes, you can use cream cheese as a substitute, but consider adding some chives to mimic the flavor of Boursin. - Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Let the salmon cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze for up to 1 month. - Q: Can I use other types of seafood for the stuffing?
A: Yes, you can substitute lump crab meat with imitation crab or even use scallops for a different flavor profile. - Q: Why does the salmon produce white stuff when cooking?
A: The white substance is called albumin, a protein that coagulates when the fish cooks. It’s completely safe to eat, though you can minimize its appearance by cooking the salmon at a lower temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- With Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread for an extra indulgent touch.
- Steamed Vegetables: Pair with steamed asparagus or green beans to balance out the rich flavors.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting, complete meal, serve alongside garlic mashed potatoes.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: You can also freeze the stuffed salmon for up to 1 month. Reheat straight from the freezer or thaw first for quicker heating.
- Reheat: Warm up in a 350°F oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until fully heated through.
Conclusion
Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is the perfect dish to impress guests or make a fancy dinner at home. It combines creamy, decadent flavors with fresh seafood in a simple, quick recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds. Pair it with our Sautéed Green Beans for a balanced and elegant meal that brings the taste of fine dining to your home.
