Perfectly seasoned salmon fillets seared with bold blackened spices, then stuffed with a creamy spinach-Parmesan filling. Juicy, spicy, cheesy — irresistible!

⭐ Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

For the Blackened Salmon

• 2–3 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp cayenne (or less for mild)

• ½ tsp thyme

• ½ tsp oregano

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt

Stuffing Mixture

• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan

• 2 tbsp cream cheese (or Greek yogurt)

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt & pepper to taste

🍽 Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Salmon

1. Pat salmon dry.

2. Use a sharp knife to cut a deep pocket in the side of each fillet.

3. Mix all blackened seasonings in a bowl.

4. Rub salmon with olive oil, then coat all sides generously with the spice blend.

Step 2 — Make the Spinach–Parmesan Stuffing

1. In a pan over medium heat, sauté garlic 30 seconds.

2. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted (1–2 minutes).

3. Remove from heat and mix in:

   • Parmesan

   • Cream cheese

   • Salt & pepper

4. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 3 — Stuff the Salmon

1. Spoon the spinach-Parmesan mixture into the pockets.

2. Press to seal gently (use toothpicks if needed).

Step 4 — Cook the Salmon

Option 1 — Pan Sear + Oven Finish (Best):

1. Heat oil in an oven-safe pan over medium-high.

2. Sear salmon 2 minutes per side until blackened.

3. Transfer pan to a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 8–10 minutes.

Option 2 — Air Fryer:

• Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.

Option 3 — Oven Only:

• Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes.

🌿 Serving Suggestions

• Lemon butter drizzle

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• Rice pilaf or quinoa

• Roasted broccoli or asparagus

• Creamy tzatziki for Mediterranean twist

❓ Q/A

Q: Can I use frozen salmon?

A: Yes, just thaw and pat dry well before seasoning.

Q: Can I replace the cream cheese?

A: Greek yogurt, ricotta, or mascarpone also work great.

Q: Is this recipe spicy?

A: Slightly. Reduce cayenne for mild or increase it if you want extra heat.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?

A: Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese + nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Q: What’s the best salmon for stuffing?

A: Thicker center-cut fillets hold the pocket well and stay juicy.