Description
This Stuffed Catfish with Cheese, Spinach, and Shrimp is a deliciously savory seafood dish! Tender catfish fillets are filled with a flavorful mixture of shrimp, spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella, then baked to perfection. A perfect combination of rich flavors with a touch of Cajun and Old Bay seasoning. Serve it with your favorite sides for a meal that will wow your guests
Ingredients
- 4 catfish fillets (medium to large)
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (or Parmesan)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning (or paprika)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for a crispy topping)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter. -
Make the Filling:
In a bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, spinach, cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, Cajun seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well incorporated. -
Prepare the Catfish:
Lay each catfish fillet flat and make a small slit in the middle (if needed) to create space for stuffing. Season both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. -
Stuff the Fish:
Spoon the shrimp and spinach mixture evenly onto one side of each fillet. Fold the fillet over or roll it up to enclose the filling. Secure with toothpicks if necessary. -
Top & Bake:
Place the stuffed fillets in the prepared baking dish. Brush the tops with melted butter and, if desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the fish for an extra crispy topping. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the fish is opaque and flaky. -
Serve:
Drizzle the stuffed catfish with a little more lemon juice and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Notes
- Feel free to use any firm white fish (like tilapia or flounder) if catfish is not available.
- Add more Cajun or Old Bay seasoning for an extra kick of flavor.
- You can prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the catfish right before baking.
- Serve with your favorite sides, like roasted potatoes or a fresh salad, to complement the dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed catfish fillet
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 150mg