Description

This Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese is a delicious and elegant seafood dish featuring tender salmon fillets stuffed with a creamy mixture of sautéed spinach, garlic, cream cheese, and Parmesan. The seasoned salmon is seared to form a flavorful crust then baked to perfection, resulting in a moist and flavorful entrée perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner.

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

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Instructions

Sauté Spinach: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and fresh spinach. Cook, stirring occasionally, 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. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts slightly and the mixture is smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
Slice the Fillets: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a horizontal pocket into the thick side of each salmon fillet without slicing all the way through, creating a cavity for the stuffing.
Stuff the Salmon: Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into each salmon pocket, pressing gently to ensure the filling stays inside during cooking.
Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub this seasoning evenly over the tops of the stuffed salmon fillets for a flavorful crust.
Sear the Salmon: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the stuffed salmon fillets seam side up and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, forming a blackened crust.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the seared salmon to an oven-safe dish and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish & Enjoy: Serve the blackened stuffed salmon immediately, garnished with lemon wedges for a bright, zesty finish that complements the rich flavors.

Notes

Use fresh salmon fillets with even thickness for uniform cooking.
Ensure not to slice through the fillet fully to keep the filling intact.
The searing step adds essential texture and smoky flavor, don’t skip it.
If you prefer, substitute cream cheese with ricotta for a lighter filling.
Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.