Looking for a show-stopping dinner idea that’s packed with flavor and surprisingly simple to make? Say hello to this stuffed salmon recipe with creamy mashed potatoes! This dish combines tender, flaky salmon stuffed with a rich spinach and cream cheese filling, served alongside velvety mashed potatoes. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to impress your family, this stuffed salmon recipe is a winner. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this restaurant-quality meal at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stuffed salmon recipe is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. The salmon is perfectly seasoned, stuffed with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture, and seared to golden perfection. Paired with buttery, creamy mashed potatoes, it’s a meal that feels indulgent yet approachable. Plus, it’s a great way to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress guests at your next dinner party.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 4)
For the Stuffed Salmon:
🐟 1.5 lbs (680g) salmon fillet, skin removed
🧈 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
🧀 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
🥛 1/4 cup sour cream
🧀 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
🧀 1/2 cup grated Italian cheese blend (Parmesan, Asiago, Romano)
🌿 1 bag fresh spinach (about 5 oz)
🧄 1 teaspoon garlic and herb seasoning
🍋 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
🌶️ 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
🧂 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
🥔 2 lbs (900g) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
🧈 1/2 cup heavy cream
🧈 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
🌿 1 sprig of fresh rosemary
🌿 1 sprig of fresh thyme
🧄 1 teaspoon garlic paste (or minced garlic)
🧂 Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Salmon
- Remove the Skin: Cut a small slit in the edge of the salmon fillet and slide your hand between the meat and skin to remove it.
- Trim and Cut: Cut the salmon into 6-7 oz fillets, about 2.5-3 inches wide. Trim any uneven pieces for even cooking.
2. Make the Stuffing
- Cook the Spinach: Sauté the spinach in a skillet until wilted. Transfer to a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, Italian cheese blend, cooked spinach, garlic and herb seasoning, lemon pepper, and Old Bay. Mix until well combined.
3. Stuff and Season the Salmon
- Season the Salmon: Brush the fillets with avocado oil and season with salt, pepper, lemon pepper, Old Bay, and smoked paprika.
- Create a Pocket: Use a sharp knife to cut a slit down the center of each fillet, creating a pocket for the stuffing.
- Stuff the Salmon: Fill each pocket with the spinach and cheese mixture, pressing it in firmly.
4. Sear the Salmon
- Heat the Skillet: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat with 2 tablespoons of avocado oil.
- Sear the Salmon: Place the stuffed fillets in the skillet, searing for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Baste with Butter: Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and baste the salmon for 60 seconds.
- Finish in the Oven: Transfer the skillet to a 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 5 minutes to cook through.
5. Make the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the Potatoes: Cook the peeled and chopped potatoes in salted boiling water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Steep the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream, butter, rosemary, thyme, and garlic paste over low heat for 7-10 minutes.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Cover with a towel to absorb excess moisture. Gradually add the steeped cream mixture, mashing until smooth and creamy.
6. Plate and Serve
- Plate the Potatoes: Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate.
- Add the Salmon: Place a stuffed salmon fillet on top of the potatoes.
- Garnish: Drizzle with the pan butter from the skillet and add a charred lemon wedge for a pop of flavor and presentation.
Explore More Recipes:
→ Trendy Balsamic Glazed Salmon Recipe
→ Delicious Garlic Shrimp Gratin Recipe
→ Grilled Salmon Recipe with Lemon Butter Sauce
Tips for Success this stuffed salmon recipe
- Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon ensures the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overstuff: Be careful not to overfill the salmon pockets to prevent the filling from leaking out.
- Creamy Potatoes: Add the cream mixture slowly to achieve your desired consistency.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Serving Suggestions
- With Lemon: Serve with a squeeze of charred lemon for a bright, tangy finish.
- Add a Side: Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish perfectly.
Conclusion
This stuffed salmon recipe with creamy mashed potatoes is a restaurant-quality meal you can easily make at home. With its flavorful filling, perfectly seared salmon, and velvety mashed potatoes, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this stuffed salmon recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
