Lemon Garlic Shrimp-Stuffed Salmon: A Restaurant-Worthy Dish You Can Make at Home
If you’re craving a restaurant-style dinner that’s rich, buttery, and packed with bright flavor, look no further than this Lemon Garlic Shrimp-Stuffed Salmon recipe. Succulent salmon fillets are generously filled with a garlicky, herb-seasoned shrimp mixture, then baked to perfection and drizzled with a silky lemon garlic sauce. This dish is gourmet-level but surprisingly simple, making it perfect for weekend indulgence or an impressive date night at home.
Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or someone just learning their way around the kitchen, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal fuss. It’s ideal for seafood lovers, keto-friendly eaters, and anyone looking for a high-protein, low-carb meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste for nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant yet easy : This dish looks and tastes fancy but comes together with basic kitchen tools and pantry staples.
- Healthy and hearty : Salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, and shrimp is a lean source of protein. Together, they make a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
- Versatile for any occasion : From a quick family dinner to an anniversary celebration, this recipe adapts beautifully.
- Customizable : Add spinach for a pop of green, or swap in different herbs or sauces based on your pantry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For Salmon and Shrimp:
- 2 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
- 12–16 shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh spinach (optional)
For the Lemon Garlic Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh lemon slices (for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Skillet
- Baking dish
- Parchment paper or baking spray
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Tongs or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Shrimp
In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt , black pepper , smoked paprika , and garlic powder . Cook for 2–3 minutes , or until the shrimp are opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Salmon
Lay your salmon fillets on the baking dish. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the center of each fillet. Be cautious not to cut all the way through.
4. Make the Stuffing
Optional but recommended: In the same skillet, sautéed chopped spinach in leftover butter and oil until wilted. Chop the cooked shrimp into smaller pieces and mix with spinach and minced garlic. Spoon the mixture into the salmon pockets.
5. Bake the Salmon
Drizzle the fillets with olive oil and fresh lemon juice . Season with oregano , parsley , salt , and pepper . Place lemon slices around the fillets for added flavor. Bake for 15–20 minutes , or until the salmon flakes easily.
6. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce
While the salmon bakes, heat 1 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp olive oil in a saucepan. Add minced garlic and sauté for a minute. Pour in broth and lemon juice , let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly reduced. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Garnish
Remove the salmon from the oven and drizzle with your warm lemon garlic sauce. Garnished with fresh parsley and extra lemon slices. Serve immediately with your favorite side.
Tips and Shortcuts
- Use pre-cooked shrimp : If you’re short on time, pre-cooked shrimp can be chopped and added to the stuffing mixture after a quick sauté with garlic.
- No spinach? No problem. The spinach is optional, but you can also substitute it with kale, arugula, or even sautéed mushrooms for a more earthy taste.
- Make it spicy : Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Go dairy-free : Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or more olive oil.
Pairing Suggestions
Side Dishes:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Lemon herb rice pilaf
- Steamed asparagus or green beans
- Roasted baby carrots or Brussels sprouts
Drinks:
- A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
- Sparkling water with lemon
- A light, citrusy IPA or wheat beer
Storing and Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days . To reheat, place the salmon in a covered oven-safe dish and warm at 300°F for about 10 minutes , or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may dry out the salmon and make the shrimp rubbery.
Freezing is not recommended due to the delicate texture of cooked seafood and the stuffed filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the shrimp stuffing and stuff the salmon up to 12 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Q: Can I use frozen salmon or shrimp?
A: Absolutely. Just ensure both are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking for best results.
Q: What can I substitute for salmon?
A: Steelhead trout, cod, or even thick tilapia fillets work well, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, as written, this recipe is gluten-free. Just double-check your broth ingredients to ensure no hidden gluten.
Q: Can I make this on the stovetop or grill instead of baking?
A: While it’s possible, baking helps keep the filling intact. If grilling, use foil packets to prevent the stuffing from falling out.
Final Thoughts
Lemon Garlic Shrimp-Stuffed Salmon is the kind of dish that makes home cooking feel special. It brings together the richness of baked salmon, the savory bite of garlic shrimp, and the bright, tangy finish of lemon—all with simple ingredients and easy techniques.
Whether you’re cooking for someone special or treating yourself, this recipe delivers gourmet satisfaction without restaurant prices.
