Description
This delicious Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese combines tender salmon fillets with a creamy and flavorful filling of sautéed spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan. The salmon is seasoned with a bold blackened spice blend and baked to perfection, making it a healthy and elegant main course perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Stuffing
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
To Serve
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the spinach filling: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the softened cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper and set aside.
- Stuff the salmon fillets: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each salmon fillet, making sure not to slice all the way through. Evenly spoon the spinach-Parmesan mixture into each pocket, filling the fillets generously but neatly.
- Season the salmon: Brush the outside of each stuffed salmon fillet with olive oil. Then, rub all sides evenly with the blackened seasoning to coat the fillets thoroughly. This will give the salmon a flavorful, slightly spicy crust once baked.
- Bake the salmon: Place the stuffed and seasoned salmon fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a lightly greased oven-safe skillet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the stuffing inside is hot and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges. Pair it with a side of rice, roasted vegetables, or a light salad for a complete and nutritious meal.
Notes
- You can substitute kale or Swiss chard for spinach if preferred or to vary the greens.
- For extra richness and gooeyness, add a touch of shredded mozzarella cheese to the filling along with the Parmesan.
- Be careful not to cut the salmon fillets through completely when making the pocket to keep the filling secure during cooking.
- Use fresh lemon wedges to brighten the flavors when serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
