Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! My mouth waters just thinking about this delicious Stuffed Salmon with Creamy Sauce. Picture this: tender, flaky salmon fillets stuffed with a savory blend of crabmeat, cheeses, and spices, all finished off with a rich, creamy sauce. It’s definitely a dish that steals the spotlight at any dinner table.
I first discovered this recipe during a family gathering where I wanted to impress everyone with my cooking skills. I mean, who wouldn’t want to gobble down some decadent salmon stuffed to perfection? The reaction from my family was priceless – not a single crumb was left behind! Since then, I’ve made it countless times for both special occasions and just a regular Tuesday night when I need a taste of indulgence. Now, let’s dive into everything you need to know to recreate this flavorful masterpiece!
What’s in Stuffed Salmon with Creamy Sauce?
Salmon fillets: The star of the dish! I like to use fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor. You can find them in the seafood section of your local grocery store.
Cooked crab meat (or shrimp): This adds a lovely sweetness and a luxurious touch. If I can’t find fresh crab, I often go for lump crab meat from a can – it works wonders!
Breadcrumbs: These provide a fantastic texture to the stuffing. I usually use panko breadcrumbs, as they are extra crunchy and light.
Cream cheese: Creamy and tangy, this cheese binds the stuffing together and adds richness.
Grated Parmesan cheese: A dash of fancy flavor, the nutty notes of Parmesan really elevate the dish.
Garlic: Because garlic makes everything better, right? The more, the merrier!
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle for freshness – both in taste and color!
Lemon juice: This brightens up the dish, cutting through the richness of the salmon and cream.
Old Bay seasoning: This is optional, but man, it gives the seafood flavor an extra kick. A little goes a long way!
Olive oil: You’ll need this for searing the salmon to perfection.
Heavy cream: This is the base for the creamy sauce. I opt for heavy cream to make it rich and indulgent (and totally worth it).
Chicken broth: Adds depth and flavor to the sauce. You can use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
Dried thyme and paprika: These spices bring warm flavors that marry beautifully with the dish.
Is Stuffed Salmon with Creamy Sauce Good for You?
Oh, you bet it is – well, in moderation! Let’s delve into some of the health benefits and considerations.
Salmon: It’s a wonderful source of protein and packed with omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health.
Crab meat: Another protein powerhouse, plus it’s low in calories. It adds some deliciousness without too much guilt.
Heavy cream and cream cheese: Okay, let’s be honest, they add a little indulgence. However, they’re also calcium-rich. If you’re looking to make it a bit lighter, consider using low-fat cream cheese or half-and-half instead.
Now, on to the not-so-great news: this dish is a bit rich, so if you’re watching your saturated fat and calorie intake, it’s best enjoyed on special occasions. Pair it with plenty of veggies to balance out the meal!
Ingredients List
This recipe serves 4 people:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cooked crab meat (or shrimp)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
How to Make Stuffed Salmon with Creamy Sauce?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and get ready for some deliciousness!
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked crab meat (or shrimp), breadcrumbs, cream cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, parsley, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a baking dish. Scoop and fill each salmon fillet generously with that tasty stuffing mixture.
4. In a skillet over medium heat, splash in the olive oil. Once it’s hot, sear the stuffed salmon fillets for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a glorious golden brown. If your skillet is small, feel free to do this in batches.
5. Transfer those beautifully seared fillets to the baking dish and pop them in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. While the salmon is baking, let’s whip up that creamy sauce: in the same skillet, add the heavy cream, chicken broth, dried thyme, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
7. Once the salmon is done, take it out of the oven and drizzle the creamy sauce over the top. Garnish with additional parsley for that chef’s touch!
8. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides – I love pairing it with macaroni and cheese and asparagus!
Get Creative with Your Stuffed Salmon!
Here’s where you can have a bit of fun! Feel free to adjust the level of seasoning based on what you and your loved ones enjoy. Throw in some chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the stuffing for an extra layer of flavor. And if you’re in the mood for a different protein, swap out the crab for a good quality shrimp.
I love wrapping this dish up as a cozy meal for friends and family to come together around the table. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and give this Stuffed Salmon with Creamy Sauce a try – I can’t wait to hear how much you loved it! Just imagine the smiles around your dinner table as you serve up your culinary creation. Happy cooking!
