Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 89 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan is a flavorful and elegant dish featuring tender salmon fillets filled with a creamy mixture of sautéed spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan, and garlic. The salmon is seasoned with a smoky blackening spice blend, seared to perfection for a crisp crust, then baked until flaky and juicy. Served with fresh lemon wedges, this recipe offers a delicious balance of rich and fresh flavors perfect for a healthy and impressive meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Salmon & Stuffing

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skinless)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasoning & Cooking

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving


Instructions

  1. Cook the Spinach: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the fresh spinach until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Drain off any excess liquid to prevent sogginess. In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach with softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a smooth, creamy stuffing.
  2. Create Salmon Pockets: Carefully slice each salmon fillet horizontally with a sharp knife to make a pocket without cutting all the way through. This pocket will hold the spinach and cheese mixture.
  3. Stuff the Salmon: Spoon the spinach and cheese stuffing into each salmon pocket, filling them generously and evenly to ensure each bite is flavorful.
  4. Prepare the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub this seasoning blend evenly over the top surfaces of the stuffed salmon fillets to enhance flavor and create the signature blackened crust.
  5. Sear the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the stuffed salmon skin-side down and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until the top is blackened and crispy, locking in moisture and flavor.
  6. Bake the Salmon: Transfer the seared salmon fillets to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 10-12 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  7. Serve: Plate the blackened salmon fillets stuffed with the spinach and Parmesan mixture, serving each with fresh lemon wedges on the side to brighten the dish. Enjoy your meal!

Notes

  • You can substitute cream cheese with ricotta for a lighter stuffing.
  • Make sure not to overfill the salmon pockets to avoid spilling during cooking.
  • Use fresh lemon wedges to add a burst of acidity when serving.
  • If you prefer a spicier crust, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
  • Check salmon doneness by ensuring it flakes easily with a fork but remains moist inside.
  • Skinless fillets are recommended for ease of eating, but you can leave skin on and cook skin side down for a crispier texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American