Crab-Stuffed Salmon is a luxurious yet approachable seafood dish that combines two favorites—tender, flaky salmon and rich, savory crab filling—into one unforgettable meal. The salmon is gently stuffed with a creamy, seasoned crab mixture and baked until perfectly moist, creating a beautiful balance of flavors and textures.
This dish feels special enough for entertaining or celebrations, yet it’s simple enough to prepare for a weeknight dinner when you want something a little extra. With fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, crab-stuffed salmon brings restaurant-quality elegance right to your home kitchen.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s impressive without being complicated. The crab filling adds richness and depth, while the salmon stays light and flaky. It’s one of those dishes that looks stunning on the plate and always earns compliments.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
- Combines two premium seafood favorites
- Elegant presentation with simple preparation
- Packed with protein and healthy fats
- Perfect for special occasions or date nights
- Easily customizable with herbs and seasonings
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 18–22 minutes
- Total Time: 40–45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~460 calories per serving (approx.)
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: American / Seafood
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Crab Stuffing
- 8 oz lump crab meat, drained and picked over
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs or panko
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Optional Topping
- Paprika or extra Old Bay, for sprinkling
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Cooking Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare Salmon: Cut a slit lengthwise in the center of each salmon fillet to form a pocket. Season with salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice.
- Make Crab Filling: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Dijon, lemon juice, Old Bay, and parsley. Gently fold in crab meat.
- Stuff Salmon: Spoon crab mixture evenly into each salmon pocket, pressing gently.
- Bake: Place stuffed salmon in baking dish. Sprinkle with paprika or Old Bay if desired. Bake for 18–22 minutes until salmon flakes easily and filling is heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with lemon slices and fresh herbs.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
- Preheat oven and prepare baking dish.
- Create pockets in salmon fillets and season.
- Mix creamy crab stuffing carefully.
- Stuff salmon evenly.
- Bake until salmon is tender and flaky.
- Rest briefly, garnish, and serve.
How to Serve
Serve Crab-Stuffed Salmon with roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or lemon rice. A crisp green salad or sautéed spinach balances the richness beautifully. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness.
Recipe Tips
- Use lump crab meat for best texture
- Be gentle when folding crab to keep pieces intact
- Don’t overbake—salmon cooks quickly
- Use a thermometer (145°F / 63°C internal temp)
- Let salmon rest a few minutes before serving
Variations (Detailed)
- Spinach Crab-Stuffed Salmon: Add sautéed spinach to the filling
- Keto-Friendly: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne
- Herb-Forward: Add dill, chives, or tarragon
- Air Fryer Version: Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes
Freezing and Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 2 days
- Freezer: Freeze uncooked stuffed salmon for up to 1 month
- Reheating: Reheat gently in oven at 325°F to avoid drying
Special Equipment Needed
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Baking dish
- Meat thermometer (recommended)
Conclusion
Crab-Stuffed Salmon is a stunning yet simple dish that brings elegance and flavor to any meal. With its creamy crab filling and perfectly baked salmon, it’s a recipe that feels indulgent while remaining approachable. Whether for a special celebration or a refined weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress and delight every time.
Crab-Stuffed Salmon
Crab-Stuffed Salmon is a luxurious yet approachable seafood dish that combines two favorites—tender, flaky salmon and rich, savory crab filling—into one unforgettable meal. The salmon is gently stuffed with a creamy, seasoned crab mixture and baked until perfectly moist, creating a beautiful balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
For the Crab Stuffing
Optional Topping
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
-
Prepare Salmon: Cut a slit lengthwise in the center of each salmon fillet to form a pocket. Season with salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice.
-
Make Crab Filling: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Dijon, lemon juice, Old Bay, and parsley. Gently fold in crab meat.
-
Stuff Salmon: Spoon crab mixture evenly into each salmon pocket, pressing gently.
-
Bake: Place stuffed salmon in baking dish. Sprinkle with paprika or Old Bay if desired. Bake for 18–22 minutes until salmon flakes easily and filling is heated through.
-
Serve: Garnish with lemon slices and fresh herbs.
