Spinach Stuffed Catfish Fillets

 

Spinach Stuffed Catfish Fillets

Creamy Spinach & Cheese–Infused Catfish Delight 🐟🌿🧀

Ingredients

Cheese & Spinach Filling:

▪️ 4 oz cream cheese, softened

▪️ 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella

▪️ 1/3 cup grated Parmesan

▪️ 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed & well-drained

▪️ 1/4 tsp garlic powder

▪️ 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes

Fish:

▪️ 4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each)

▪️ 3 tbsp olive oil (divided)

▪️ 1 tsp kosher salt

▪️ 1/2 tsp black pepper

Pan Sauce:

▪️ 2 tbsp butter

▪️ Juice of 1/2 lemon

Directions

1. Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.

▫️ Mix until creamy and well blended.

▫️ Set aside at room temperature.

2. Season the Fish

Lay the catfish fillets on a cutting board. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.

▫️ Rub the oil and seasoning into both sides of the fillets.

3. Slice & Stuff

Using a sharp knife, cut each fillet lengthwise to form a pocket or into two thinner pieces.

▫️ Spoon 1/4 of the spinach mixture inside each fillet and press lightly to close.

4. Pan-Sear the Catfish

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the remaining olive oil, butter, and lemon juice.

▫️ When the mixture begins to sizzle, add the stuffed catfish.

5. Cook to Perfection

Sear for about 6 minutes, then gently flip.

▫️ Spoon the buttery lemon pan juices over the top as it cooks.

▫️ Continue cooking another 6 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily.

6. Serve Warm

Plate immediately with extra pan sauce drizzled on top.

Delicious with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies.

⏱ Time Guide

▪️ Prep: 15 minutes

▪️ Cook: 20 minutes

▪️ Total: 35 minutes