If you love seafood dishes that are bursting with flavor and have a delightful twist, you are going to fall head over heels for this Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese Recipe. Imagine tender, flaky salmon fillets with a crispy, smoky crust enveloping a creamy, cheesy spinach filling that melts in your mouth. This recipe combines the best of textures and tastes in one elegant yet easy-to-make dish, perfect for impressing guests or simply elevating your weeknight dinner. I can’t wait to share this crowd-pleaser with you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients, each adding a unique character that makes the salmon come alive. From the fresh, vibrant greens to the rich and tangy cheese, every element plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Salmon fillets (4, about 6 oz each): Fresh or thawed; choose skin-on for extra crispness or skinless for easier stuffing.
- Fresh spinach (2 cups): Adds vibrant color and a nutritious boost, wilted to soften perfectly into the stuffing.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Brings a nutty, salty depth that complements the salmon beautifully.
- Cream cheese (2 oz, softened): Provides creaminess that binds the spinach and Parmesan into a luscious filling.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the stuffing with warmth and aromatic flavor.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing the spinach and garlic to bring out their best flavors.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds a zesty brightness that lifts the whole dish.
- Blackened seasoning (1 tablespoon): The star spice blend lending that signature smoky, spicy crust.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season and highlight all ingredients.
- Lemon wedges (optional): Perfect for squeezing fresh juice over the finished salmon for an extra citrus punch.
How to Make Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach and Cheese Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until it becomes wonderfully fragrant, about a minute. This quick step releases the garlic’s rich aroma, setting the stage for the filling. Next, add your fresh spinach and cook until just wilted — you want it tender but still bright and fresh. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the softened cream cheese and grated Parmesan until everything is beautifully combined and creamy. Let this mixture cool just a bit so it’s easy to handle when stuffing the salmon.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon Fillets
Take each salmon fillet and carefully cut a deep pocket along the side. This is your little treasure chest for the spinach and Parmesan filling. Be careful to avoid cutting all the way through – you want a nice, generous pocket to hold all that cheesy goodness. Season the outside of each fillet with the blackened seasoning, salt, and pepper. This seasoning is the flavor powerhouse here, creating that perfect crust once baked.
Step 3: Stuff and Bake
Gently spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into the pockets of each salmon fillet, filling them up but not overstuffing. Place your stuffed fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Drizzle the lemon juice over the top, which will brighten the flavors during baking. Bake in your preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the filling is melted and hot. The result is an irresistible combination of tender fish and ooey-gooey stuffing.
How to Serve Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top gives a lovely pop of color and freshness. A few lemon wedges on the side not only look inviting but also let everyone add as much citrus as they like, enhancing the salmon’s flavor wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple, wholesome sides. Think roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts to keep things light and healthy, or a fluffy quinoa salad that adds texture and substance. If you want to keep it low carb, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette hits the spot every time.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant dinner party, plate each salmon fillet beside a colorful medley of vegetable ribbons or a bed of wild rice. You can even serve the stuffing mixture on the side for guests who want to customize their bites. A drizzle of a garlic butter sauce or a dollop of herbed Greek yogurt can elevate the presentation and flavor even further.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be hard to resist), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salmon will remain moist, and the flavors develop even more after resting overnight.
Freezing
This Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked and cooled stuffed fillets individually wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to one month. Be aware that the texture of the spinach might change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a low oven (around 275°F or 135°C) for 10-15 minutes so it heats evenly without drying out. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the fish’s texture tender and flaky.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid sogginess in the stuffing.
What if I don’t have blackened seasoning?
You can make your own with a blend of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. It’s easy and customizable to your spice preference.
Is it okay to use skin-on salmon fillets?
Definitely. Skin-on fillets add crispiness to the outside when cooked, but if you prefer, skinless works just as well for easier stuffing and eating.
Can I prepare the spinach and cheese filling in advance?
Yes! The filling holds up well in the fridge for up to a day before stuffing and cooking the salmon, making meal prep super convenient.
What wines or drinks go well with this dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir pairs nicely with the flavors of blackened salmon, spinach, and Parmesan, enhancing your dining experience.
Final Thoughts
This Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese Recipe is truly a gem in both flavor and ease. It’s perfect for when you want to treat yourself or your loved ones to something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Give this recipe a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to dishes for seafood nights. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb, Gluten Free
Description
This Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese is a delicious, healthy main course featuring tender salmon fillets filled with a creamy mixture of sautéed spinach, Parmesan, and cream cheese. The salmon is seasoned with bold blackened spices, baked to perfection, and finished with a bright drizzle of lemon juice, creating a flavorful and elegant dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Stuffing
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Sauté: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook Spinach Mixture: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and stir in the softened cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture is well combined. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Prepare Salmon Fillets: Cut a deep pocket into the side of each salmon fillet carefully without cutting all the way through. Season the outside of each fillet evenly with blackened seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the Salmon: Fill each salmon pocket generously with the spinach and cheese mixture, pressing gently to keep the stuffing inside.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the stuffed salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle lemon juice over each fillet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the filling is hot and melted.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with optional lemon wedges for added brightness.
Notes
- You can prepare the spinach and cheese stuffing mixture ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to use.
- For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes to the spinach filling.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
