Baked Stuffed Salmon Recipe
Introduction
This baked stuffed salmon recipe is a delicious way to elevate your weeknight dinner with minimal effort. The creamy spinach and garlic filling pairs perfectly with tender, flaky salmon, all finished under a hot broiler for a golden top.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (approximately 4-6 ounces each)
- 4 tablespoons butter (cut into 1-tablespoon pieces)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon seasoning blend of choice (we used blackened redfish magic)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 8 ounce package cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (packed)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your broiler to high, around 500-550°F. Place the 4 tablespoons of butter, cut into 1-tablespoon pieces, in an oven-proof skillet or baking dish.
- Step 2: Carefully cut slits or pockets about three-quarters of the way through the sides of each salmon fillet. Be sure not to cut all the way through.
- Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, fresh spinach, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, and salt and pepper. Stir until well blended.
- Step 4: Stuff the filling into the pockets of each salmon fillet, packing it in as fully as possible. Brush the tops of the fillets with olive oil and sprinkle with your chosen seasoning blend.
- Step 5: Place the stuffed salmon fillets into the prepared skillet with the butter. Position the pan on a rack about 8-10 inches from the broiler’s heating element.
- Step 6: Broil the salmon for 6-9 minutes, depending on your desired doneness — 6 minutes for medium rare, up to 9 minutes for well done. The top should be browned and the salmon cooked through.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for 3-4 minutes. Serve by spooning the melted butter from the pan over the salmon fillets for extra flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh herbs like dill or parsley in the filling for added brightness.
- Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a different leafy green texture.
- Try cream cheese mixed with a little lemon zest for a tangy kick.
- If you don’t have a broiler, bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes instead, checking for doneness.
Storage
Store leftover stuffed salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F to maintain texture, or warm briefly in the microwave, covering loosely to retain moisture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed salmon to ensure even cooking and to properly stuff the fillets. If using frozen salmon, thaw completely and pat dry before preparing.
What can I serve with baked stuffed salmon?
This dish pairs well with simple sides like steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a crisp green salad to balance the rich filling.
PrintBaked Stuffed Salmon Recipe
This Baked Stuffed Salmon recipe features tender salmon fillets filled with a creamy mixture of spinach, garlic, cream cheese, and Parmesan, then broiled to perfection with a hint of seasoning and butter. Perfect for a flavorful and elegant weeknight dinner or special occasion, it delivers a delicious balance of rich and fresh ingredients while keeping preparation simple.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 salmon fillets (approximately 4–6 ounces each)
- 4 tablespoons butter (cut into 1-tablespoon pieces)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon seasoning blend of choice (blackened redfish magic used)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Filling
- 8 ounce package cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (packed)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Butter: Place 4 tablespoons of butter, cut into 1-tablespoon pieces, in an oven-proof skillet or baking dish. Preheat your broiler on high, around 500-550°F, to get ready for cooking the salmon.
- Prepare Salmon Fillets: Using a sharp knife, cut slits or pockets about 3/4 of the way through the sides of each salmon fillet. Be careful not to cut all the way through, so the fillets hold their shape while being stuffed.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, packed fresh spinach, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir the ingredients thoroughly to create a smooth, well-mixed filling.
- Stuff the Salmon: Carefully stuff the mixture into the slits or pockets of each salmon fillet, pressing in as much filling as possible. Then, brush the tops of the fillets evenly with olive oil and sprinkle the seasoning blend over each fillet.
- Broil the Salmon: Transfer the stuffed salmon fillets to the prepared baking dish with the butter pieces. Place the dish on a rack positioned about 8-10 inches from the top heating element. Broil the salmon on high heat for 6 minutes for medium rare or up to 9 minutes for well done, ensuring the fish is browned and cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the salmon from the broiler and let it rest for 3-4 minutes before serving. Serve the fillets on plates and spoon the melted butter from the pan over the top for added richness and flavor. Enjoy your delicious baked stuffed salmon!
Notes
- Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature or microwave briefly at reduced power to ensure easy mixing and stuffing.
- Adjust broiling time depending on the thickness of the salmon fillets and desired doneness preference.
- Using an oven-proof skillet or baking dish makes it easy to transfer directly to the broiler.
- Feel free to substitute the seasoning blend with your favorite herbs or spices.
- Spoon the melted butter over the salmon just before serving for enhanced flavor.
Keywords: baked stuffed salmon, salmon recipe, broiled salmon, cream cheese stuffed salmon, easy dinner recipes, healthy seafood
