Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan

A bold, restaurant-style salmon dish featuring smoky Cajun seasoning and a creamy spinach–Parmesan filling. Crispy outside, tender and flavorful inside — perfect for an impressive weeknight dinner or special occasion.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

🐟 Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz / 170 g each), skin removed, thick-cut

• 1–2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp melted butter (for searing)

🌶 Blackening Seasoning (Homemade)

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ¼–½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust heat)

(Or use 2 tbsp store-bought Cajun seasoning.)

🥬 Spinach Parmesan Filling

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup cream cheese, softened

• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Filling

1. Heat a small pan over medium heat.

2. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add spinach and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).

4. Remove from heat and cool slightly.

5. Mix spinach with cream cheese, Parmesan, mozzarella, salt, and pepper.

6. Set aside.

2️⃣ Prepare the Salmon

1. Pat salmon dry with paper towels.

2. Using a sharp knife, cut a deep pocket into the side of each fillet (do not cut through).

3. Spoon spinach mixture evenly into each pocket.

3️⃣ Season

1. Mix blackening spices.

2. Brush salmon lightly with olive oil.

3. Coat generously with seasoning on all sides.

4️⃣ Cook (Stovetop Method – Best Crust)

1. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high until very hot.

2. Add melted butter.

3. Place salmon in skillet and cook 4–5 minutes per side.

4. Reduce heat if needed to avoid burning.

5. Internal temperature should reach 125–130°F (52–54°C) for medium.

Optional: Finish in 375°F (190°C) oven for 5 minutes if fillets are thick.

5️⃣ Rest & Serve

Let rest 3–5 minutes before serving.

Serve with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• Roasted asparagus

• Lemon wedges

• Creamy rice or quinoa

🔥 Oven-Only Method

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes depending on thickness.

❓ Q & A – Blackened Salmon Stuffed with Spinach & Parmesan

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes. Thaw completely and pat very dry before stuffing.

Q2: How do I prevent overcooking?

Use a thermometer. Remove at 125°F — it will rise slightly while resting.

Q3: Can I air fry this?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes.

Q4: Can I substitute the filling?

Absolutely. Try:

• Crab + cream cheese

• Feta + sun-dried tomatoes

• Ricotta + herbs

Q5: What if I don’t like spicy food?

Reduce or omit cayenne and use mild paprika only.

Q6: How long does it keep?

Refrigerate up to 2 days in an airtight container.