Imagine biting into a perfectly blackened salmon fillet, crisp on the outside and bursting with a creamy spinach and Parmesan filling inside. The smoky, slightly spicy crust enhances the tender, flaky fish, while the cheesy spinach adds a rich, savory contrast. Topped with a buttery lemon sauce, this dish is an irresistible blend of bold flavors and creamy textures.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight meal, an elegant dinner for guests, or a way to elevate your seafood game, this Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan is the perfect choice. It’s packed with protein, nutrients, and restaurant-quality taste—all made in your own kitchen.
Let’s dive into this incredible blackened salmon recipe that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with bold flavors – The blackened seasoning creates a smoky, slightly spicy crust.
- Creamy, cheesy filling – Spinach, Parmesan, and mozzarella add a rich, melty surprise inside.
- Quick and easy – Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Healthy and protein-rich – A great low-carb, keto-friendly seafood option.
- Versatile and elegant – Perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan at home:
For the Salmon
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Salmon fillets (6 oz each) | 4 |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp |
| Onion powder | ½ tsp |
| Cayenne pepper (optional) | ¼ tsp |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
For the Filling
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh spinach, sautéed | 2 cups |
| Shredded Parmesan cheese | ½ cup |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | ½ cup |
| Garlic, minced | 1 clove |
For the Sauce
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
How to Make Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan
1. Prepare the Filling
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the spinach and sauté for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Remove from heat and mix with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Set aside.
2. Season the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure a crispy crust.
- In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the salmon fillets with olive oil, then generously coat each fillet with the blackening seasoning.
3. Stuff the Salmon
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each salmon fillet, making sure not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each fillet with an equal amount of the spinach and cheese mixture.
4. Cook the Salmon
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Place the stuffed salmon fillets in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until blackened and crispy.
5. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over low heat.
- Stir in lemon juice and let it simmer for 30 seconds.
- Drizzle the sauce over the cooked salmon before serving.
6. Serve & Enjoy!
- Plate the salmon and garnish with fresh parsley or lemon slices.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Pro Tips for the Best Blackened Salmon
- Use fresh, high-quality salmon – Wild-caught salmon has the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook the fish – Salmon is done when it reaches 125-130°F for medium doneness.
- Let the salmon rest – Allow it to sit for 5 minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
- For extra crispiness, finish the salmon under the broiler for 2 minutes.
- Adjust the spice level – Add more cayenne or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Not recommended, as the texture of the filling may change.
Reheating
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet with a splash of broth or butter.
- Microwave: Use 30-second intervals, but be careful not to overcook.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Protein | 45g |
| Fat | 32g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 550mg |
What to Serve with Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan
Pair this flavorful stuffed salmon with these side dishes:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes balance the bold seasoning.
- Roasted Asparagus – A fresh, healthy side with a hint of lemon.
- Cilantro Lime Rice – Adds a bright, zesty contrast.
- Caesar Salad – A light and refreshing option.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to switch things up? Try these ideas:
- Cheese Swap – Use goat cheese, feta, or cream cheese instead of Parmesan.
- Dairy-Free Version – Replace cheese with dairy-free alternatives and use olive oil instead of butter.
- Baked Version – Bake the stuffed salmon at 375°F for 15-18 minutes instead of pan-searing.
- Extra Veggies – Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms to the filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just thaw it completely in the fridge overnight and pat it dry before seasoning.
2. What’s the best way to cut a pocket in the salmon?
Use a sharp knife and cut a slit in the thickest part of the fillet, leaving the sides intact.
3. Can I grill this salmon instead of pan-searing?
Absolutely! Use a medium-high grill and cook for about 4 minutes per side.
4. Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s low in carbs and packed with healthy fats and protein.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and season the salmon ahead of time, then cook it fresh when ready.
6. How do I make this dish spicier?
Increase the cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Final Thoughts: Try This Blackened Salmon Recipe Tonight!
Now that you know how to make Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan, it’s time to bring bold flavors and creamy textures to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Try it today and share your results! Let us know how it turned out in the comments or tag us on social media.