Stuffed Salmon
There’s something undeniably special about a beautifully baked salmon fillet, especially when it’s bursting with flavor from a delicious stuffing. This Stuffed Salmon recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings. With a creamy filling loaded with fresh spinach, garlic, and cheeses, each bite is a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Pair it with a light salad or some roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a meal that’s not only satisfying but also impressive enough to serve to guests.
Why This Recipe Works
This Stuffed Salmon recipe not only delivers on flavor but also on ease of preparation. The natural richness of the salmon pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy filling, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make. The spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition, while the garlic and spices elevate the overall taste. Plus, salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish a healthy choice.
Ingredient Notes
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This adds a rich flavor and helps to keep the salmon moist while baking.
- Fresh Baby Spinach: Lightly sautéed, it adds freshness and a wonderful texture to the stuffing.
- Garlic: Minced garlic provides a robust flavor that complements the creaminess of the cheese.
- Kosher Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Adjust according to your taste.
- Ground Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat that balances the richness of the cheese.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch adds a hint of spice, making the dish more exciting.
- Reduced-Fat Cream Cheese: This forms the base of the stuffing, giving it a creamy consistency without being overly heavy.
- Shredded Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a stretchy texture to the filling.
- Finely Grated Parmesan: Adds a nutty flavor and richness that complements the other cheeses.
- Salmon Fillets: Opt for skin-on or skin-off fillets, depending on your preference. Just ensure they’re fresh for the best results.
Cook’s Kit
- Oven: Preheat your oven for even cooking.
- Baking Dish: A glass or ceramic dish works best for baking the salmon.
- Sauté Pan: For cooking the spinach and garlic.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine the stuffing ingredients.
- Sharp Knife: For cutting slits in the salmon fillets.
Make Stuffed Salmon: A Simple Method
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by heating 2 teaspoons of the extra virgin olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix the Stuffing
In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach and garlic with the cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Step 3: Prepare the Salmon
If using skin-on salmon fillets, place them skin side down on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a slit in the side of each fillet to create a pocket for the filling. Ensure not to slice all the way through.
Step 4: Stuff the Salmon
Generously fill each salmon fillet with the spinach and cheese mixture. Use your fingers or a spoon to pack it in gently but firmly.
Step 5: Bake the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed salmon fillets in a lightly greased baking dish. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top, and sprinkle with the remaining salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for added heat. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon if desired. Enjoy your perfectly stuffed salmon!
Holiday-Friendly Variations
- Herb-Infused Stuffing: Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the stuffing for an aromatic twist.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the filling for a burst of tangy flavor.
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the stuffing for a refreshing citrus note.
- Nutty Crunch: Stir in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Cook’s Notes
- Ensure your salmon is fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- You can use frozen salmon fillets; just thaw them completely and pat them dry before stuffing.
- Feel free to adjust the level of spice according to your preference.
- This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
Leftover stuffed salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed salmon before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Ask & Learn
Can I make the stuffing ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just stuff the salmon right before baking.
What sides pair well with Stuffed Salmon?
Stuffed salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed asparagus, quinoa salad, or a light arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
Can I use a different type of fish?
While salmon is ideal for this recipe, you can use other firm fish like cod or tilapia. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Weekend Projects
- Sally’s Baking Addiction for more delightful baking recipes.
- Pinch of Yum for creative and delicious meal ideas.
- Minimalist Baker for simple and wholesome recipes.
Hungry for More?
If you loved this Stuffed Salmon recipe, be sure to explore other delectable dishes on our blog. From comforting pastas to fresh salads, there’s something for everyone.
Indulge in the culinary adventure and create memorable meals that will impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Stuffed Salmon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating 2 teaspoons of the extra virgin olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach and garlic with the cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
- If using skin-on salmon fillets, place them skin side down on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a slit in the side of each fillet to create a pocket for the filling. Ensure not to slice all the way through.
- Generously fill each salmon fillet with the spinach and cheese mixture. Use your fingers or a spoon to pack it in gently but firmly.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed salmon fillets in a lightly greased baking dish. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top, and sprinkle with the remaining salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for added heat. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon if desired. Enjoy your perfectly stuffed salmon!
Notes
- Ensure your salmon is fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- You can use frozen salmon fillets; just thaw them completely and pat them dry before stuffing.
- Feel free to adjust the level of spice according to your preference.
- This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a light salad.
