Crab Stuffed Salmon Recipe

Crab stuffed salmon is the ultimate seafood indulgence combining two luxurious and flavorful ocean treasures into one show-stopping dish. Perfect for special occasions, date nights, or a weeknight meal that feels fancy, this recipe offers restaurant-quality results without the hefty price tag. The tender, flaky salmon perfectly complements the rich, creamy crab stuffing, which is seasoned to perfection and brimming with textures and taste.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to impress your guests, this dish delivers. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare at home using simple ingredients you can find in most grocery stores.

Read on to discover why crab stuffed salmon is a must-try and how you can make it flawlessly every single time.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant yet simple: This dish looks gourmet but is easy enough for beginners to cook.
• Delicious contrast of flavors: Sweet crab, savory seasonings, and buttery salmon are a match made in heaven.
• Perfect for entertaining: Great for dinner parties, holidays, or date nights.
• Healthy protein: Both salmon and crab are lean protein sources rich in omega-3s.
• Customizable: You can adjust the stuffing to your taste or dietary needs.

🧂 What You Need to Prepare Crab Stuffed Salmon?

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this elegant seafood masterpiece:

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (skinless, center-cut)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon (sliced, for garnish)

For the Crab Stuffing:

• 8 oz lump crab meat (drained and checked for shells)
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or paprika)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Optional:

• A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
• Chopped celery or bell pepper for added texture

🍽️ How to Make Crab Stuffed Salmon Step-by-Step?

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

Using a sharp knife, make a horizontal slit in the side of each salmon fillet to create a pocket for stuffing. Be careful not to cut all the way through. Season the salmon with salt and pepper inside and out.

Step 3: Mix the Crab Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, cream cheese, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic, parsley, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, and optional ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the crab meat intact.

Step 4: Stuff the Salmon

Spoon the crab mixture generously into each salmon pocket. Press lightly to secure the filling inside the fish. If there’s leftover stuffing, place it on top or around the fillets in the baking dish.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Drizzle the salmon fillets with olive oil or a bit of melted butter. Bake for 18–22 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley before serving.

🔄 Variations

This crab stuffed salmon recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted based on taste, dietary preferences, or available ingredients. For a keto or low-carb version, substitute almond flour or crushed pork rinds for breadcrumbs. If you prefer a dairy-free stuffing, omit the cream cheese and cheese, and add an extra spoon of mayo and a splash of lemon juice for creaminess.

You can also change up the flavors: try using chopped shrimp or lobster instead of crab, or combine different seafood for a mixed-stuffing twist. Want more veggies? Finely diced bell pepper, spinach, or mushrooms sautéed in garlic can be added to the filling. For a Mediterranean flair, swap in feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano. Want spice? Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix.

Don’t have salmon? This recipe works beautifully with thick fillets of cod, trout, or halibut. For a grilled version, wrap stuffed fillets in foil and cook over medium heat for 15–20 minutes. The possibilities are endless!

🍳 Cooking Note

To get the best flavor and texture, always use fresh, high-quality salmon and real lump crab meat. Imitation crab can be used in a pinch but won’t offer the same sweet, briny taste. Pat the salmon dry before slicing to avoid slipping while cutting the pocket. A sharp, thin-blade knife works best for this task.

Make sure your crab meat is thoroughly drained and picked clean of any shell fragments. If you’re preparing the stuffing ahead of time, store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also stuff the salmon in advance and refrigerate it covered for a few hours before baking—perfect for entertaining!

Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets. Keep an eye out and use a fork to check for doneness. The fish should be opaque and flake easily, while the crab mixture should be golden on top.

Want extra browning? Broil the fillets for the final 2–3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Crab stuffed salmon is rich and flavorful on its own, so keep your side dishes light and complementary. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or arugula tossed in olive oil makes a refreshing pairing. For something heartier, try roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or garlic green beans.

For starch options, consider a side of wild rice, lemon butter pasta, or creamy mashed cauliflower. You can also serve it over a bed of quinoa with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a complete and nutritious meal.

To elevate your presentation, drizzle the plate with a lemon-dill sauce or garlic butter. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant restaurant-style look.

Pair it with a glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for the perfect dining experience.

🔧 Helpful Tips

1. Use center-cut salmon fillets: These are thicker and more uniform, making them easier to stuff and cook evenly.
2. Don’t overmix the crab filling: You want to keep some chunks of crab for texture and flavor.
3. Use a binder: Mayo and cream cheese not only bind the filling but also add richness.
4. Taste the stuffing before filling: Make sure your seasoning is balanced—you won’t get a chance to fix it later!
5. Seal the pocket gently: Don’t press too hard on the fish. You want the filling to stay inside but not get compacted.
6. Check for doneness: Use a thermometer if needed—salmon is done at 145°F (63°C).
7. Broil for extra color: A short broil at the end will add golden color and crisp the top.
8. Let it rest: Rest for 3–5 minutes after baking before serving to let the juices redistribute.

🧑‍🍳 Tips for the Best Crab Stuffed Salmon

• Choose the right cut: Opt for thick, even-sized salmon fillets for easier stuffing and consistent cooking.
• Fresh is best: Always use fresh or high-quality crab meat for maximum flavor and texture.
• Don’t skip the lemon: A touch of citrus brightens the dish and balances the richness of the stuffing.
• Add some crunch: Toast the breadcrumbs before mixing them in for added texture.
• Season generously: Don’t forget to season both the salmon and the stuffing to ensure every bite is delicious.

🕒 Timing Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

🧾 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 36g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 1g

❓ FAQs

Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, but make sure it’s well-drained and ideally labeled “lump” for the best texture.

Can this be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and stuff the salmon a few hours in advance, then bake when ready.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze cooked leftovers for up to 1 month.

What wine pairs well with crab stuffed salmon?
Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Pinot Grigio are excellent choices.

Can I grill this instead of baking?
Yes! Wrap in foil and grill over medium heat for 15–20 minutes.

✅ Conclusion

Crab stuffed salmon is a dish that feels like fine dining but is surprisingly easy to make in your own kitchen. The marriage of flaky salmon and creamy, flavorful crab stuffing results in an unforgettable meal that’s sure to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary. With endless variations, helpful tips, and serving ideas, this recipe can become a new favorite in your seafood rotation.

Whether for a holiday feast or a quiet night in, crab stuffed salmon brings gourmet flair to your table with minimal effort. Make it once and you’ll keep coming back to it again and again.

Bon appétit! 🦀🐟

Print