Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe

This Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is an elegant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a delicious weeknight dinner! Imagine flaky salmon fillets filled with a creamy shrimp and spinach stuffing, all baked to perfection with a crispy panko topping. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make and delivers a restaurant-quality meal that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Elegant: The combination of succulent shrimp, creamy cheese, and fresh spinach creates a delicious and sophisticated filling that complements the salmon beautifully.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Salmon and shrimp are excellent sources of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish a healthy and satisfying choice.
• Versatile: Serve this Shrimp Stuffed Salmon with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a simple salad. It’s also great for meal prepping or special occasions.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: Use fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture.
• Butter or oil: Used to cook the shrimp and create a flavorful base for the stuffing.
• Minced garlic: Adds a fragrant and savory punch to the stuffing.
• Shrimp: Peeled, deveined, and tails removed, they add a delicate sweetness and succulent texture.
• Cream cheese: Adds a creamy and tangy element to the stuffing.
• Spinach: Adds a healthy dose of greens and a vibrant color.
• Garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, pepper, celery salt, and paprika: Seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the stuffing.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Adds a crispy and golden brown topping to the salmon.
• Garnishes: Fresh parsley and lemon wedges add a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Shrimp Stuffed Salmon

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Chop the shrimp into ½-inch pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp and Make the Stuffing

Heat the butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the chopped shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes, or until they turn opaque but are not fully cooked through. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cream cheese, spinach, garlic powder, parsley, salt, pepper, celery salt, and paprika until well combined.

Step 3: Stuff the Salmon

Line a baking sheet or large baking dish with parchment paper or grease it with oil. Pat the salmon fillets dry and butterfly each fillet by slicing through the middle horizontally, stopping about ½ inch from the edge to create a pocket. Season each fillet with salt and pepper to taste. Spoon the shrimp and cream cheese mixture into the pocket of each salmon fillet. If needed, use toothpicks to secure the edges of the opening, but it’s okay if some of the stuffing spills out.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the tops of the stuffed salmon fillets. Lightly spray with cooking oil spray and place the baking sheet or dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 16-18 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flaky and the panko is golden brown. Remove from the oven and serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use high-quality salmon: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, high-quality salmon fillets.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: The shrimp will continue to cook in the oven, so don’t overcook them in the skillet.
• Use a meat thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure the salmon is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F.
• Make it gluten-free: Simply omit the panko breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the shrimp stuffing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply stuff the salmon fillets and bake as directed.

How to Serve

This Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is delicious with a variety of sides:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, add a healthy and colorful touch.
• Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf complements the richness of the salmon and shrimp filling.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Shrimp Stuffed Salmon is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can! Other firm-fleshed fish, such as cod, mahi-mahi, or sea bass, would also work well in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as goat cheese, ricotta cheese, or a blend of cheeses.

3. Can I make this recipe without the breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can! The breadcrumbs add a nice crispy texture, but you can omit them if you prefer.

4. Can I add other ingredients to the stuffing?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, such as chopped vegetables, herbs, or spices.

This Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a flavorful and elegant meal. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and impressive presentation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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