Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese

ByLovely Recipes

Introduction

This Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese is a flavorful, restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to make at home. The salmon is coated in a smoky, bold blackening seasoning and stuffed with a creamy, cheesy spinach mixture that adds a burst of flavor with every bite. Perfect for a special dinner or a healthy, protein-packed meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bold & Smoky Flavor – The blackened seasoning gives the salmon a delicious crust.
  • Creamy & Cheesy Filling – A savory mix of spinach, Parmesan, and cream cheese.
  • Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
  • Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp dried thyme

For the Spinach & Parmesan Filling:

  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • ½ cup cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ tsp lemon zest
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach & Parmesan Filling

  1. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, Parmesan, chopped spinach, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Set aside while you prepare the salmon.

Step 2: Prepare the Blackened Salmon

  1. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, oregano, and thyme.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
  3. Cut a pocket into the side of each salmon fillet, being careful not to cut all the way through.
  4. Stuff each fillet with a generous amount of the spinach and Parmesan mixture.
  5. Brush each fillet with olive oil or melted butter, then coat evenly with the blackened seasoning.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon

Stovetop Method

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil.
  2. Sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, until the crust is blackened and crispy and the salmon is cooked through.

Oven Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place salmon on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until flaky and cooked through.

Air Fryer Method

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place salmon fillets in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

  1. Remove from heat and let the salmon rest for a few minutes.
  2. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Tips for the Best Stuffed Salmon

  • Don’t Overstuff – Use just enough filling so the salmon stays intact while cooking.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh spinach and real Parmesan cheese add the best flavor.
  • Adjust the Spice Level – Reduce cayenne if you prefer a milder dish.
  • Cook to Perfection – Salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
  • Freeze uncooked stuffed salmon for up to 2 months. Thaw before cooking.

This Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese is a showstopping dish packed with flavor. Perfect for an elegant dinner or a quick weeknight meal! Enjoy! 🐟🧀🌿