Description
Delicious blackened salmon fillets stuffed with a creamy mixture of sautéed spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan, creating a flavorful, wholesome meal perfect for a quick dinner. The salmon is seasoned with a smoky spice blend, seared to create a blackened crust, then finished in the oven for tender, flaky perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Spinach Filling
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions
- Sauté Spinach: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and fresh spinach, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and fragrant.
- Mix Cheese: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the softened cream cheese and grated Parmesan 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 without cutting all the way through, creating space for the filling.
- Stuff the Salmon: Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into each salmon fillet pocket, pressing gently to secure the filling inside without spilling.
- Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub this seasoning mix evenly over the tops of the stuffed salmon fillets.
- Sear the Salmon: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until a dark blackened crust forms on both sides.
- Bake: Transfer the seared salmon fillets to a preheated oven set to 375°F (190°C). Bake them for 10-12 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish & Enjoy: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges to add a bright, zesty flavor to the dish.
Notes
- Ensure the pocket in the salmon fillets is deep enough to hold the filling without tearing the fillet apart.
- Use fresh spinach for best flavor and texture; frozen spinach can be used if thawed and well-drained.
- You can substitute cream cheese with ricotta or mascarpone for a different creaminess.
- Adjust seasoning according to your spice preference, adding cayenne pepper for extra heat if desired.
- Use a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet to prevent sticking during searing.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and eaten within 2 days but are best enjoyed freshly cooked.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
