Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines tender, flaky salmon with creamy, cheesy goodness.
• The garlic cream sauce adds a luxurious finishing touch.
• Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.
• Packed with nutritious spinach and protein-rich salmon.
• Ready in just 40 minutes, making it weeknight-friendly.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (skinless)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Filling:

• 2 cups fresh spinach, sautéed
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine sautéed spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the filling.
3. Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into each salmon fillet and stuff them with the prepared spinach mixture. Arrange the stuffed fillets in the lined baking dish.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly golden. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked.
5. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute, then stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Pour the creamy sauce over the baked salmon. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Calories: 460 kcal per serving

Variations

• Keto-Friendly: Use a low-carb cream cheese and omit the mozzarella for a lower-carb option.
• Seafood Mix: Swap the salmon with trout or cod for a different flavor profile.
• Add Mushrooms: Sauté diced mushrooms with the spinach for an earthy twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling or sauce.
• Herbal Boost: Incorporate chopped fresh dill or basil into the spinach filling.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the salmon.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before preparing.

2. Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute the cream cheese and mozzarella with dairy-free alternatives and use coconut cream for the sauce.

3. What can I serve with stuffed salmon?

Pair it with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light green salad.

4. How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

5. Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the filling can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

6. Can I freeze stuffed salmon?

It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the creamy filling may separate upon thawing.

7. Can I use pre-cooked spinach?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked or frozen spinach, but make sure to squeeze out excess water.

8. How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Let it simmer for a bit longer, or whisk in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

9. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Simply adjust the ingredients proportionally and use a larger baking dish.

Conclusion

This Creamy Stuffed Salmon with Spinach and Cheese is a show-stopping dish that’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for special occasions. With its rich, creamy flavors and elegant presentation, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Serve it with your favorite sides for a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.