Description
Succulent Southern classic Stuffed Catfish with Cheese, Spinach and Shrimp blends Gulf Coast flavors into a luxurious seafood experience. Creamy cheese, tender shrimp, and fresh spinach create a mouthwatering filling that elevates this hearty catfish dish for dinner lovers.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 4 catfish fillets (medium to large)
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
Cheese and Dairy:
- 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (or Parmesan)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or paprika)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for a crispy topping)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coat a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Create a vibrant filling by mixing chopped shrimp, spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, minced garlic, Old Bay and Cajun seasonings, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined.
- Carefully slice each catfish fillet to create a pocket for stuffing, then season both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Generously distribute the shrimp and spinach mixture into the prepared fillet pockets, gently folding or rolling the fish to completely enclose the filling. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Arrange the stuffed fillets in the prepared baking dish, brush the surface with melted butter, and sprinkle breadcrumbs for added texture and crunch.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, ensuring the fish turns opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
- Finish by drizzling with fresh lemon juice and garnishing with chopped parsley. Serve alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun and Old Bay seasonings to match your spice preference, making the dish milder or more intense.
- Replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond meal for a celiac-friendly version.
- Pat shrimp and spinach dry before mixing to prevent a watery filling that might make the fish soggy.
- Swap shrimp with crab meat or diced chicken for different flavor profiles while maintaining the creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg