This crab stuffed salmon is pure delight! With juicy salmon filled with a creamy crab mix, it’s almost too good to be true. The flavors all blend together beautifully!
Honestly, it feels fancy but is super easy to make. I love serving it with some steamed veggies for a healthy twist. You’ll impress your friends, or just treat yourself! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: I love using fresh salmon fillets, but you can also use frozen fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Skin-on salmon stays moist and can add texture, but skinless works too if you prefer.
Crab Meat: Lump crab meat gives the dish a sweet and rich flavor. If it’s not available, you can substitute with imitation crab, but the flavor won’t be as rich. Canned crab is also an option if you’re looking for convenience!
Mayonnaise: This ingredient adds creaminess. If you want to lighten it up, try Greek yogurt or low-fat mayonnaise. Just be aware that it may change the flavor slightly.
Cream Cheese: This gives your stuffing a nice texture. If you’d like a dairy-free version, you can substitute with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. It will still hold together nicely!
Herbs: Fresh parsley and chives brighten up this dish. Feel free to swap in other herbs like dill or basil if you like those flavors better.
How Do I Make the Perfect Stuffed Salmon?
Stuffing the salmon might seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think! Start by making a pocket in each fillet without cutting all the way through. This will hold the delicious crab mixture.
- Make the pocket: Use a sharp knife to cut into the side of the salmon, creating a opening. Leave the sides intact.
- Fill with crab mixture: Don’t be shy about filling it! Stuff it generously – the more, the better.
- Top it off: If you’re not comfortable with stuffing, simply spread the crab mix on top of the fillet.
- Baking: Bake until the salmon is flaky and the crab topping is golden. Cooking times depend on the thickness – just keep an eye on it!
These tips will help ensure your salmon turns out beautifully every time. Enjoy making this dish!
Melt-in-your-mouth Crab Stuffed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off as preferred
- 8 oz lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 cup finely diced green onions (white and green parts)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for brushing salmon)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon fresh chopped chives
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crab stuffed salmon takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook, totaling about 35 minutes. Just enough time to whip up an impressive meal without much hassle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a baking dish with some cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
2. Mixing the Crab Stuffing:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the lump crab meat, mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, chives, green onions, Parmesan cheese, Old Bay seasoning (if you’re using it), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Be gentle with the crab; you want to combine everything without breaking up the lumps too much. Aim for a chunky texture!
3. Preparing the Salmon Fillets:
Take your salmon fillets and pat them dry using paper towels. This helps with browning. Then, using a sharp knife, carefully cut a slit along the side of each fillet to create a pocket for the stuffing. Make sure you don’t cut all the way through – just enough for stuffing!
4. Stuffing the Salmon:
Now, it’s time to fill each salmon pocket generously with your crab mixture. If you find it easier, you can simply spread the crab stuffing on top of the salmon fillets instead.
5. Baking the Salmon:
Place the stuffed salmon fillets into your prepared baking dish. Brush the tops and sides with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle with a little salt and pepper for extra flavor. Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 18-22 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the crab topping is just starting to get golden brown.
6. Making the Cream Sauce:
While the salmon is baking, prepare the cream sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the heavy cream, lemon zest, and chives. Let it simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens a bit. Season with salt and pepper to your taste, and keep warm.
7. Serving the Dish:
Once your salmon is fully cooked, take it out of the oven and gently plate it. Drizzle the warm cream sauce over or beside the salmon. If you like, garnish with some extra chopped chives or parsley for a touch of color. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite side dishes like roasted potatoes or steamed veggies!
Now you’re ready to enjoy your melt-in-your-mouth crab stuffed salmon! It’s a stunning dish that looks and tastes amazing.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before preparing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or place the vacuum-sealed packet under cold running water for quicker results.
What Can I Substitute for Crab Meat?
If you can’t find crab meat, you can use imitation crab or even canned tuna as alternatives. However, the flavor will differ slightly, with crab providing a more luxurious taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or oven until warmed through, but be mindful not to overcook the salmon again!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Stuffing?
Definitely! You can customize the stuffing by adding ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even different herbs like dill or thyme for varied flavors. Just keep the overall consistency similar to maintain the stuffing’s integrity!