Blackened Salmon Stuffed Spinach: 4 Flavorful Bites

July 24, 2025

Blackened salmon stuffed spinach has become my go-to for an impressive yet totally achievable weeknight dinner. I still remember the first time I tried making it – I was aiming for something a bit fancy for my parents, and the smell of the spices hitting the hot pan was incredible! That combination of the spicy, crispy blackened crust with the creamy, cheesy spinach inside is just pure magic. It’s truly an easy blackened salmon spinach recipe that always gets rave reviews. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Blackened Salmon Stuffed Spinach

This dish is a winner for so many reasons!

Incredible Flavor: The bold, spicy blackened crust perfectly complements rich, savory filling.
Quick Prep: You can have this blackened salmon stuffed with spinach and cheese ready in under 20 minutes of active prep.
Healthy Choice: Salmon is packed with omega-3s, and the spinach adds essential vitamins.
Budget-Friendly: It uses common pantry staples and affordable salmon fillets.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters often enjoy the mild, creamy spinach inside.
Impressive Presentation: It looks gourmet but is surprisingly simple to make.
Versatile: This blackened salmon stuffed with spinach and cheese works for casual weeknights and special occasions alike.

Ingredients for Blackened Salmon Stuffed Spinach

Gathering these blackened salmon stuffed spinach ingredients is the first step to a fantastic meal. I always opt for fresh ingredients to really let the flavors shine through. The salmon should be nice and firm, and the spinach should be vibrant green.

4 salmon fillets, skin removed – about 6 oz each, for perfect pockets
3 cups fresh spinach, chopped – the bulk of our creamy filling
1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded – adds a salty, nutty depth
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened – the key to a smooth, luscious stuffing
2 tablespoons olive oil – for searing and achieving that beautiful crust
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning – this is where the “blackened” magic happens!
1 teaspoon garlic powder – essential for savory flavor
1 teaspoon onion powder – complements the garlic and seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – adds a touch of smoky sweetness
1 lime, juiced – a little acidity brightens everything up
Salt and pepper, to taste – to enhance all the flavors

How to Make Blackened Salmon Stuffed Spinach

Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. This method ensures a perfectly cooked, flavorful meal every time.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, let’s get our delicious filling ready.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped, 1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded, and 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened. Add the 1 lime, juiced, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper, to taste. Mix everything together until it’s a creamy, well-combined filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Salmon: Take your 4 salmon fillets, skin removed. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the thickest part of each fillet. You want to create a generous pocket for the filling, but be sure not to cut all the way through, keeping the fillet intact.
Step 4: Stuff the Fillets: Generously spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into the pocket of each salmon fillet. Don’t be shy – pack it in there to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 5: Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, mix together the 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. This blend is key to that signature blackened flavor. Rub this spice mixture all over the outside of the stuffed salmon fillets, ensuring they are well-coated.
Step 6: Heat Oil: Place an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Let the oil get nice and hot; you’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers.
Step 7: Cook Salmon: Carefully place the seasoned, stuffed salmon fillets into the hot skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a beautiful, golden-brown crust to form – this is the start of that delicious blackened exterior. This step of pan-seared salmon stuffed with spinach adds an amazing texture.

Blackened Salmon Stuffed Spinach: 4 Flavorful Bites - Blackened Salmon Stuffed Spinach - additional detail

Step 8: Transfer to Oven: Once both sides are nicely seared, carefully transfer the entire skillet with the salmon into your preheated oven. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the filling is bubbly and heated through.
Step 9: Serve: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let the blackened salmon stuffed spinach rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for the most tender fish. Enjoy this flavorful dish!

Pro Tips for the Best Blackened Salmon Spinach Recipe

Want to elevate your blackened salmon spinach game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make this dish truly spectacular.

Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing; cook in batches if necessary to get that perfect crust.
Use a good quality Cajun seasoning blend – it makes all the difference for that authentic blackened flavor.
Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing; it makes for a much smoother, easier-to-stuff filling.
Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking. This is crucial for keeping it moist and tender.

What’s the secret to perfect Blackened Salmon Stuffed Spinach?

The real secret lies in achieving that perfect balance: a beautifully seared, flavorful blackened crust on the outside and a creamy, savory spinach filling inside. A hot pan and a good spice rub are key for the crust, while well-softened cream cheese ensures a luscious stuffing. For more culinary inspiration, explore our collection of recipes.

Can I make Blackened Salmon Stuffed Spinach ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing and stuff the salmon fillets up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. Just be aware that you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they are going into the oven cold. If you’re looking for other make-ahead meals, consider our Turkey Meatloaf Recipe.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Blackened Salmon Stuffed Spinach?

A common pitfall is overcooking the salmon, which can make it dry. Keep a close eye on it and test for flakiness. Another mistake is not getting the pan hot enough for searing – a good crust won’t form if the pan is too cool. Finally, make sure your cream cheese is truly softened for the best stuffing consistency. For tips on achieving perfect textures, you might find information on cooking salmon helpful.

Blackened Salmon Stuffed Spinach: 4 Flavorful Bites - Blackened Salmon Stuffed Spinach - additional detail

Best Ways to Serve Blackened Salmon with Spinach Filling

This flavorful dish is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, I love serving the blackened salmon with spinach filling alongside roasted asparagus or a simple quinoa salad. The tender salmon and creamy spinach create a rich base that complements lighter vegetables beautifully. You might also enjoy our Crispy Roasted Cauliflower as a side.

If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, consider serving it with garlic mashed potatoes or a wild rice pilaf. For a comforting, family-style meal, you could even treat it like a blackened salmon spinach casserole by arranging it over a bed of pasta or alongside some crusty bread to soak up any extra juices. It’s a dish that truly shines with simple, complementary sides. For a similar creamy delight, check out our Boat Dip Rotel Ranch Dip.

Blackened Salmon Stuffed Spinach Nutrition

This blackened salmon stuffed spinach dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 480 kcal
Fat: 34g
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: N/A
Fiber: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, consult resources on nutrition.gov.

How to Store and Reheat Blackened Salmon Stuffed Spinach

Once your delicious blackened salmon stuffed spinach is cooked and enjoyed, you might have some leftovers – lucky you! To store, let any remaining portions cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to freeze them for later, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and pop them into the freezer for up to 3 months. This makes for a super convenient meal later on. For another convenient meal option, consider our Korean BBQ Meatballs.

When you’re ready to reheat, you can gently warm leftovers in the oven at around 325°F (160°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain the integrity of the dish. For a truly quick blackened salmon stuffed spinach reheat, you can use a microwave, but be mindful that the texture might change slightly. Aim for short bursts of heating, checking frequently to avoid overcooking the delicate salmon.

Frequently Asked Questions About Blackened Salmon Stuffed Spinach

What is blackened salmon stuffed spinach?

It’s a dish where tender salmon fillets are expertly seasoned with a bold Cajun spice blend for a “blackened” crust, and then stuffed with a creamy, savory mixture of spinach and cheese. It’s a flavorful and satisfying way to enjoy salmon.

Can I use frozen salmon for this blackened salmon recipe with spinach stuffing?

While fresh salmon is always best for texture and flavor, you can use frozen salmon if needed. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before you start preparing the dish. This ensures it cooks evenly and the stuffing stays put. If you’re interested in weight loss recipes, you might find our Zepbound Weight Loss Recipes helpful.

What are good side dishes for blackened salmon stuffed spinach?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! I often serve it with roasted asparagus, a fresh green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. A simple rice pilaf or some crusty bread to soak up any extra juices from the stuffing also works beautifully. For a unique side, try our Keto Cottage Cheese Bread Recipe.

How do I get a good “blackened” crust on my salmon?

The key to a perfect blackened crust is a hot pan and a generous coating of your spice blend. Make sure your skillet is properly preheated with oil before adding the seasoned salmon. Don’t move the salmon too much during the initial sear; let it develop that delicious dark crust undisturbed.

Variations of Blackened Salmon Stuffed Spinach You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, there are so many fun ways to switch up this dish! For a lighter take, try using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a tangy, blackened salmon stuffed with creamy spinach filling that’s still incredibly flavorful. You could also experiment with different cheeses, like Gruyere or Monterey Jack, for a new flavor profile. For a sweet treat, don’t miss our Frozen Banana Snickers.

If you’re not a fan of pan-searing, you can totally grill this dish! Grill the seasoned, stuffed salmon over medium-high heat for about 5-6 minutes per side, then finish it on indirect heat or in a cooler part of the grill until cooked through. For a vegetarian option, you could even try stuffing large portobello mushrooms with the spinach and cheese mixture and baking them until tender.