Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan
A Bold, Creamy, and Savory Salmon Recipe That’s Sure to Impress
This Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan brings together bold Cajun-inspired spices, tender salmon, and a creamy cheese-and-spinach filling for a restaurant-quality dish you can make at home. Topped with a simple lemon butter sauce, this recipe is perfect for both a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Filling:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, sautéed
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and set aside.
2. Mix the Blackening Seasoning
In a small bowl, stir together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Rub the fillets with olive oil and coat both sides with the seasoning mixture.
3. Sauté the Spinach
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the minced garlic in a little oil for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, Parmesan, and mozzarella. Stir until well blended.
5. Stuff the Salmon
Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into the thick side of each fillet, being careful not to slice all the way through. Gently stuff each pocket with the spinach-cheese mixture.
6. Sear and Bake
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sear the salmon for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crisp. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Prepare the Sauce
While the salmon bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add lemon juice, stir, and let simmer for 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat.
8. Serve
Plate the salmon fillets and spoon the lemon butter sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this salmon with:
- Roasted or steamed vegetables
- Garlic mashed potatoes or herbed quinoa
- A crisp garden salad
- Rice pilaf or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich in Flavor: Smoky, spicy, creamy, and zesty—all in one bite.
- Healthy & Satisfying: High in protein and omega-3s with wholesome greens.
- Elegant but Easy: Perfect for both casual dinners and entertaining guests.
Nutrition & Health Benefits
- Salmon: A powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamin D.
- Spinach: Loaded with fiber, iron, and antioxidants.
- Cheese: Adds calcium and satisfying creaminess without overloading carbs.
This dish is naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients.
Conclusion
This Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan is a crave-worthy, comforting dish with a gourmet touch. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or yourself, it’s a recipe that delivers in both flavor and nutrition. Make it once, and it just might become your go-to salmon dinner!