Delicious Stuffed Salmon Recipes for Every Occasion

Ella
Ella
Hi, I'm Ella- the voice and heart behind YummyHorizon. I believe that every dish tells a story, and through this blog, I share recipes inspired by...
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Stuffed salmon is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience. With its rich, flaky texture packed with savory fillings like creamy spinach, herbs, or even crab meat, this crowd-pleaser delivers gourmet flavor with surprisingly little effort. Whether you’re planning a special meal or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner game, this stuffed salmon recipe is one you’ll want to keep reading for.

This easy dinner recipe blends American comfort with coastal flavors.
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serving Size: 1 plate

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets skin-on about 6 ounces each
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup baby spinach chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped
  • 1 tablespoon green onion finely sliced

Equipment

  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowl
  • Small spoon or spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or foil
  • Pastry brush

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup.
  2. Make the stuffing: In a mixing bowl, stir together the cream cheese, chopped spinach, garlic, Parmesan, lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, and green onion. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended. It should be fragrant and easy to spread.
  3. Prepare the salmon: Use a sharp knife to gently create a deep pocket along the side of each fillet. Be careful not to cut all the way through. You want enough space to hold the filling without the fish splitting apart during baking.
  4. Season generously: Drizzle the salmon with olive oil and rub it over the surface. Then sprinkle both the inside and outside of each piece with salt and pepper. This step makes a big flavor difference so give it a good treatment.
  5. Stuff the salmon: Take your filling and gently spoon it into each pocket. The key here is to fill them well but not overstuff—aim for a generous scoop and press lightly to close. It is okay if a little peaks out.
  6. Bake it right: Arrange the stuffed fillets skin-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the filling is hot and bubbling. A slight golden color on the filling surface is perfect.
  7. Rest before serving: Let the salmon rest for 5 minutes. This gives the juices time to settle and the fish stays tender. Garnish with a bit more fresh dill or lemon slices for a pretty finish.

Nutrition per serving

Calories 320
Protein 25g
Carbohydrates 3g
Fat 22g
Sugar 0g
Fiber 0g
Sodium 580mg

Description

Imagine cutting into a thick, juicy fillet of salmon, only to reveal a warm, creamy filling bursting with savory goodness. Stuffed salmon is the kind of dish that instantly elevates any dinner table. The delicate flakiness of baked fish wraps around a heart of cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and fresh spinach, delivering a perfect balance of buttery richness and light, ocean-fresh flavor. Every bite melts in your mouth, offering contrasting textures and just the right amount of indulgence.

Stuffed salmon has that restaurant-quality feel, yet it is surprisingly simple to make at home. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner for two or hosting a small gathering, this elegant entrée is sure to wow your guests. The aroma of roasting salmon with herbs and garlic floats through the kitchen and signals that something special is on the table—a dish that feels both comforting and luxurious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stuffed salmon recipe checks all the boxes—quick to assemble, packed with flavor, and flexible enough to adapt to your taste or dietary needs. You can easily make it low-carb or boost the protein by customizing the filling. Plus, it only requires a few simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressive weekend dinners.

Not only is it visually stunning, but this recipe also brings balance to your plate. Omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, fiber and vitamins from the spinach, and a creamy filling that satisfies without feeling heavy—this dish is a wholesome and lovely way to enjoy seafood any night of the week.

Serving and Storage Tips

Stuffed salmon is best served fresh out of the oven, but leftovers store beautifully. Refrigerate any remaining portions in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 300°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may dry out the fish. You can also prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, making assembly the next day much faster. For freezing, wrap each stuffed fillet tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw completely in the fridge before baking.

Course, Cuisine, Keywords

Main Course, American, salmon, seafood, stuffed salmon, easy dinner, low carb, weeknight meal, healthy protein

Servings, Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Serving Size

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serving Size: 1 stuffed fillet

For extra flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and do not skip the lemon zest. Leftovers keep well for 2 days in the fridge.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

What type of Parmesan works best?

Use real Parmigiano-Reggiano and grate it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese will not melt evenly and lacks flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.

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Stuffed Salmon with Cream Cheese and Spinach

Elevate your dinner table with this restaurant-quality stuffed salmon: fillets filled with a creamy blend of cream cheese, spinach, garlic, herbs, and lemon. It’s surprisingly simple yet indulgent, offering flaky fish wrapped around a flavorful, luscious filling. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 salmon fillets skin-on, about 6 ounces each
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup baby spinach chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped
  • 1 tablespoon green onion finely sliced

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  • In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped dill, and green onion. Stir until well combined.
  • Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into the side of each salmon fillet. Do not cut all the way through.
  • Season both the outside and inside of each fillet with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
  • Use a spoon to stuff each fillet with the prepared cheese and spinach mixture, pressing gently to fill the pocket fully.
  • Place the stuffed salmon fillets onto the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the filling is hot and creamy.
  • Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional dill or lemon wedges if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 36gFat: 26gSodium: 510mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g
Keyword salmon, seafood, stuffed salmon, easy dinner, low carb, weeknight meal, healthy protein
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Hi, I'm Ella- the voice and heart behind YummyHorizon. I believe that every dish tells a story, and through this blog, I share recipes inspired by home, travel, and the joy of simple ingredients. From cozy comfort food to bold global flavors, YummyHorizon is your place to explore, taste, and create. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just getting started, I'm here to guide you through flavorful journeys- one delicious recipe at a time. Welcome to my kitchen, where every meal opens a new horizon.