If you are craving a dish that combines bold flavors with a creamy, cheesy surprise, then the Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe is your new go-to! This recipe brings together perfectly seared, spicy salmon fillets with a luscious filling of garlicky spinach, cream cheese, and sharp Parmesan. Every bite offers a delightful contrast between the smoky blackened crust and the velvety interior, making it a standout meal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the list—each ingredient plays a simple but crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish shine. From the vibrant spinach to the fragrant spices, every element enhances your final plate without fuss.
- Salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each): Fresh, thick-cut fillets ensure juicy, tender fish that holds the stuffing well.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Adds a subtle richness and helps wilt the spinach while bringing all the ingredients together.
- Paprika (1 tsp): This smoky spice is the star of the blackening seasoning, giving the crust its signature deep color and flavor.
- Garlic powder (½ tsp): Provides a mellow garlic punch that complements both the filling and seasoning.
- Onion powder (½ tsp): Adds a subtle savory sweetness to the spice blend.
- Black pepper (½ tsp): Freshly cracked for a little heat and complexity.
- Salt (¼ tsp): Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish without overpowering.
- Lemon wedges: Their bright acidity offers a refreshing contrast at the end.
- Fresh spinach (2 cups): Provides vibrant color, nutrients, and a tender texture inside the salmon.
- Cream cheese (½ cup, softened): Creates a creamy, rich base that binds the filling deliciously.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (â…“ cup): Brings a sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the stuffing to the next level.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Fresh garlic infuses the spinach with fragrant, aromatic delight.
How to Make Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Spinach
Begin by heating your olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic first, allowing it to become fragrant for about 30 seconds, then add the fresh spinach. Stir and cook for just 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach wilts beautifully. This quick sauté softens the spinach and perfectly infuses it with garlic flavor, setting a delicious base for your stuffing.
Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling
Once the spinach is off the heat and slightly cooled, stir in the softened cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This decadent blend will provide a luscious texture that enriches the salmon from the inside out. Set this cheesy spinach filling aside as you prepare the salmon.
Step 3: Prepare the Salmon Fillets
Take a sharp knife and carefully create a horizontal pocket in each salmon fillet. This pocket should be deep enough to hold your spinach and Parmesan filling but not cut all the way through. This step is essential to ensure the stuffing stays neatly inside during cooking while allowing the bold blackened exterior to develop.
Step 4: Stuff the Salmon
Spoon the cheese and spinach mixture directly into each pocket, pressing gently so all the filling stays tucked inside. Don’t be shy—this step is where the magic happens, giving your salmon a rich surprise with every bite.
Step 5: Season the Fillets
In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub this aromatic seasoning all over the tops of each stuffed salmon fillet. This spice blend will create that irresistible blackened crust characteristic of this recipe, packing flavor with every sear.
Step 6: Sear the Salmon
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the salmon, searing each side for 2 to 3 minutes until a beautiful blackened crust forms. The contrast between the spicy crust and the creamy filling is what makes this meal unforgettable.
Step 7: Bake Until Perfect
Transfer the seared salmon to a preheated oven set at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through. Baking ensures the filling is warmed through and the fish remains moist and tender.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Serve your Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe hot with fresh lemon wedges on the side. The citrus cut through the richness wonderfully, balancing every bite with a bright, zesty finish.
How to Serve Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this dish beautifully. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds vibrant color and a hint of freshness, while lemon wedges offer an optional zingy squeeze that lightens the rich flavors. A few thinly sliced green onions or chives can also add a mild oniony crunch.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy quinoa salad to soak up the extra juices. Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans provide a crisp, fresh contrast, making your plate colorful and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or special meal, present each fillet on a pool of lemon-butter sauce or drizzle with a light herb vinaigrette for a restaurant-level touch. Layer the salmon on a bed of wild rice pilaf or artistically arrange grilled veggies around it to impress your guests visually and gastronomically.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days without losing their delightful flavors or texture.
Freezing
While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked salmon for up to 1 month. Wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer-safe container. Keep in mind the texture may change slightly after thawing and reheating.
Reheating
For gentle reheating, place the salmon in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent uneven heating and drying out the fish. This method keeps the creamy filling luscious and the salmon moist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach for the filling?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water before mixing it with the cream cheese and Parmesan to avoid a watery filling.
Is it necessary to use skinless salmon fillets?
Skinless fillets are easier to stuff and cook evenly in this recipe, but if you prefer skin-on, you can carefully stuff the fillets and cook skin side down first for a nice crisp texture.
Can I substitute Parmesan with another cheese?
Definitely! Pecorino Romano or Asiago can work well, offering a similar sharpness that complements the creamy spinach filling.
How spicy is the blackening seasoning?
This recipe uses paprika, which provides a deep smoky flavor without too much heat. If you like more spice, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or a light Sauvignon Blanc complements the richness of the stuffed salmon while cutting through the smoky blackened seasoning beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that combines ease, elegance, and unforgettable flavor, and the Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe fits that bill perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe delivers a satisfying and stylish meal that you’ll want to make again and again. So grab those ingredients and dive into this mouthwatering adventure—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious and elegant blackened salmon recipe stuffed with a creamy spinach and Parmesan cheese mixture. This dish features perfectly seared salmon fillets with a flavorful crust, baked to tender, flaky perfection. Ideal for a quick, nutritious dinner packed with protein and leafy greens.
Ingredients
For the Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
For the Filling
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- â…“ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions
- Sauté Spinach: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and spinach. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts and releases moisture.
- Mix Cheese: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Slice the Fillets: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a horizontal pocket into each salmon fillet, slicing almost through but keeping the fillet intact to hold the filling.
- Stuff the Salmon: Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into each salmon fillet pocket, pressing gently to secure the filling inside without overstuffing.
- Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub this seasoning blend evenly over the tops of the stuffed salmon fillets.
- Sear the Salmon: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed salmon fillets and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a dark blackened crust forms, carefully turning to avoid spilling the filling.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the seared salmon fillets to a baking dish or oven-safe pan and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish & Enjoy: Remove the salmon from the oven and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges to add a bright, zesty finish to the dish.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture in the filling.
- Do not overstuff the salmon fillets to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the salmon carefully to a baking dish after searing.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially the paprika and salt.
- Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
