The Kirkland Signature Crab Stuffed Salmon from Costco is a delicious, convenient, and impressive-looking entrée that offers fantastic value for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests. It combines a fresh, mild Atlantic salmon with a rich, savory seafood stuffing that’s packed with flavor.
Found in the pre-made meals section of the refrigerated aisles, this is one of those Costco finds that makes you look like a gourmet chef with minimal effort. But does the taste live up to the beautiful presentation? We bought one to find out.
How Much Does the Stuffed Salmon Cost at Costco?
The Costco Kirkland Signature Stuffed Salmon costs $12.99 per pound. The package we purchased weighed 3.05 pounds for a total price of $39.62. The item number is 26043.
Keep in mind that these are catch-weight items, so the total price of your package will vary depending on its exact weight. For over three pounds of salmon plus stuffing, this is a very reasonable price, especially considering the quality of the ingredients and the convenience.
How Do You Cook Stuffed Salmon From Costco?
The best way to cook Costco’s stuffed salmon is in the oven, but for an even crispier topping, you can use an air fryer. The goal is to cook the salmon through until it’s flaky and opaque while heating the stuffing to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Official Oven Instructions (From the Package)
This is the official method recommended by Costco on the product label.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Remove the plastic lid from the black oven-safe tray.
- Place the tray on a baking sheet and position it on the middle oven rack..
- Bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Check that the stuffing’s internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) with a food thermometer.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
How to Cook Costco Stuffed Salmon in an Air Fryer
For a single portion with a crispier, golden-brown top, the air fryer is our Pro-Tip method.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut a single portion of the stuffed salmon and place it in the air fryer basket. You may want to use a liner for easy cleanup.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your piece.
- Check that the salmon is cooked through and the stuffing has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can You Cook The Salmon From Frozen?
Yes, you can cook the salmon from frozen, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. If cooking from frozen in the oven, plan to add at least 15-20 minutes to the total bake time. Always rely on a food thermometer to ensure the stuffing reaches the safe temperature of 165°F.
What Is Costco’s Stuffed Salmon Made Of?
The Kirkland Signature Stuffed Salmon is made of two main components: farm-raised Atlantic salmon and a seafood stuffing. The stuffing is a creamy and savory blend that includes imitation crab, shrimp, lobster, and various seasonings.
Here are the key ingredients listed on the package label:
- Salmon: Fresh Farm-Raised Atlantic Salmon.
- Stuffing: Imitation Crab (made from Alaska Pollock), Water, Wheat Starch, Sugar, Potato Starch, Egg Whites, Sorbitol, and Snow Crab. It also contains Shrimp, Onions, Cream, Lobster, and a blend of spices like Paprika, Celery Seed, and Turmeric.
Allergens: This product contains Fish (Salmon, Pollock), Crustacean (Shrimp, Lobster, Crab), Wheat, Soy, Milk, and Egg. It is made in a facility that also processes peanuts and tree nuts.
Is Costco Stuffed Salmon Good? (The Taste Test)
Yes, the Costco stuffed salmon is very good, delivering a fantastic savory flavor with a wonderful mix of textures. The salmon itself is mild, moist, and flaky, providing the perfect base for the rich and creamy seafood stuffing.
The stuffing is the star of the show. It’s not overly “fishy” at all. Instead, it has a rich, buttery, and savory flavor reminiscent of a good crab dip. You can taste the sweetness from the crab and shrimp, balanced by savory notes from the onions and spices. When cooked in the oven or air fryer, the top of the stuffing gets beautifully golden-brown and slightly crispy, which contrasts nicely with the soft, creamy interior and the tender salmon.
This is a very satisfying and decadent-tasting meal that feels much fancier than the effort required to prepare it. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side of roasted asparagus or a fresh salad.
How Many Calories Are in Costco Stuffed Salmon? (Nutrition Facts)
While the exact nutritional information can vary slightly by package, a typical serving of Costco’s stuffed salmon is estimated to contain around 300-400 calories.
This is not a low-calorie food, primarily due to the rich, creamy stuffing which contains ingredients like cream, oil, and starch. However, it’s also packed with high-quality protein from the salmon and other seafood.
So, is it healthy? It’s a mix. Salmon is an excellent source of healthy Omega-3 fatty acids and protein. The stuffing adds significant calories, fat, and sodium. It’s best viewed as a delicious entrée to be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced meal.
The Final Verdict: Is The Kirkland Stuffed Salmon Worth Buying?
Absolutely. The Kirkland Signature Stuffed Salmon is a definite buy for anyone looking for an easy, delicious, and impressive meal without a lot of work. The quality of the fish is excellent, the stuffing is flavorful and rich, and the price offers solid value for what you get.
| Rating | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Taste | 9/10 | Deliciously savory and rich. |
| Convenience | 10/10 | Just pop it in the oven. Zero prep work. |
| Value | 8/10 | Great price for a high-quality, ready-to-cook entrée. |
| Nutrition | 6/10 | High in protein but also in calories and fat. |
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
- Buy it if: You need a quick and impressive dinner for guests, you love seafood, or you want an easy weeknight meal that feels special.
- Pass it if: You are on a strict low-calorie or low-sodium diet, or you do not enjoy creamy seafood stuffings.
Costco Stuffed Salmon FAQ
Is the Costco stuffed salmon discontinued?
No, currently, the Kirkland Signature Stuffed Salmon is not discontinued. However, its availability can be seasonal or vary by location, so it may not be in stock at every warehouse all the time.
Can you freeze Costco stuffed salmon?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze the stuffed salmon. Since the stuffing itself was previously frozen, it is safe to refreeze the entire product. For best results, wrap it tightly or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It should be consumed within 2-3 months.
What is in the crab stuffing?
The stuffing is a seafood blend. The primary ingredient is imitation crab made from Alaska Pollock, but it also contains real snow crab, shrimp, and lobster, mixed into a creamy base with spices.