You’re in for a decadent treat! This Garlic Butter Shrimp-Stuffed Salmon is a restaurant-worthy dish made at home — rich, buttery salmon fillets are filled with a savory shrimp stuffing, all kissed with garlic, herbs, and lemon. Perfect for date night, holidays, or a luxurious dinner with minimal effort.
🐟 Garlic Butter Shrimp-Stuffed Salmon
🕒 Total Time: 40 minutes
🍽️ Serves: 2–4
💡 Skill: Easy to moderate
🧾 Ingredients
For the Salmon:
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2 large salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless), about 6–8 oz each
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
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1 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
For the Garlic Butter Shrimp Filling:
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1 tbsp butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 lb raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, finely chopped
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2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
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2 tbsp grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Optional: pinch of chili flakes for a kick
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Prep the Salmon:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Pat salmon fillets dry. Use a sharp knife to cut a deep pocket lengthwise down the center of each fillet, careful not to slice through the bottom.
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Lightly season salmon with salt, pepper, and paprika. Set aside.
2. Make the Shrimp Filling:
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In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
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Add chopped shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, until just turning pink. Remove from heat.
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Stir in cream cheese, Parmesan, lemon juice, parsley, and chili flakes if using. Mix until creamy. Let cool slightly.
3. Stuff the Salmon:
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Spoon the shrimp filling into each salmon pocket, mounding it slightly.
4. Bake or Pan-Sear & Finish in Oven:
Option A – Oven Only (easier):
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Place salmon fillets on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily and filling is hot.
Option B – Sear & Finish (crispier):
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Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet. Sear stuffed salmon 2–3 minutes per side.
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Transfer skillet to oven and bake 10 minutes more.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
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Garlic mashed potatoes
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Lemon rice pilaf
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Steamed asparagus or roasted green beans
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A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
🧄 Tips & Variations:
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Add spinach or chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for extra depth.
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Use crab or lobster instead of shrimp for an even more indulgent twist.
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Garnish with fresh dill, parsley, or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.