Ultimate Creamy Spinach Stuffed Salmon with Honey Glaze: An Easy Weeknight Recipe

Prepare to elevate your weeknight dinner game with this absolutely exquisite creamy spinach stuffed salmon. Imagine perfectly baked, juicy, and flaky salmon fillets, generously stuffed with a rich and savory cream cheese and spinach mixture, then finished with a delightful honey glaze that adds a touch of sweet and spicy perfection. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that’s surprisingly easy to achieve, making it ideal for busy evenings or when you want to impress without the stress.

If you’re a true salmon enthusiast, you know the versatility and deliciousness this fish brings to the table. Beyond this incredible stuffed salmon recipe, you might also enjoy exploring other favorites such as crab-stuffed salmon for an extra touch of luxury, the vibrant flavors of firecracker baked salmon, or even a casual yet flavorful salmon burger. Each offers a unique way to enjoy this healthy, omega-3 rich fish, but this spinach-stuffed version truly stands out for its creamy texture and balanced flavors.

What truly sets this spinach stuffed salmon recipe apart and makes it so irresistibly good is the harmonious combination of its luscious filling and the vibrant, sticky glaze. The filling, a creamy blend of softened cream cheese, fragrant fresh garlic, and vibrant spinach, creates a delightful contrast against the tender salmon. Then, there’s the show-stopping glaze: a sweet-savory concoction of honey and sriracha sauce. While I personally don’t find the sriracha adds excessive heat, it provides a fantastic depth of flavor. If you prefer a milder taste or are sensitive to spice, you can easily omit the sriracha or substitute it with an equal amount of soy sauce for an umami kick, or even a dash of lemon juice for brightness. The magic truly happens when these elements come together, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions for Perfect Stuffed Salmon

Crafting the perfect spinach stuffed salmon starts with understanding your ingredients. Here’s a deeper dive into what you’ll need and how you can customize this recipe to fit your preferences:

• Salmon – The star of our dish! For the best results, opt for thick, fresh salmon fillets, ideally wild-caught for superior flavor and texture. While any type of meaty fish can work as a substitute, such as Chilean sea bass or cod, salmon offers a unique richness and healthy fats. Look for fillets that are vibrant in color and firm to the touch. If using frozen salmon, ensure it’s fully thawed and patted very dry before slicing and seasoning to prevent a watery outcome.
• Softened Cream Cheese – This is the foundation of our creamy, decadent stuffing. Softened cream cheese blends smoothly with other ingredients, creating a homogeneous mixture. If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, or simply want to try something different, goat cheese offers a tangy, earthy alternative, or you could experiment with mascarpone or even a well-drained ricotta for a lighter texture.
• Old Bay Seasoning – A classic seafood seasoning that brings a fantastic blend of spices and a subtle kick. If you don’t have Old Bay on hand, don’t fret! A simple seasoning of salt, black pepper, and a touch of garlic powder and paprika will also work wonderfully. For those who love bold flavors, a good quality Cajun seasoning is an excellent spice blend you can use as well, adding a bit more heat and complexity.
• Spinach – Fresh spinach is my preferred choice for its vibrant color and fresh taste, and it wilts down beautifully into the creamy mixture. However, frozen spinach is a perfectly acceptable alternative. If using frozen, make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This step is crucial to prevent the stuffing from becoming watery, which could affect the texture and taste of your stuffed salmon.
• Fresh Minced Garlic – There’s nothing quite like the aromatic punch of fresh garlic. It infuses the cream cheese mixture with incredible flavor. If fresh isn’t available, about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder can be used per fresh clove, but the fresh version truly shines here.
• Honey – Essential for the irresistible sweet and savory glaze. It caramelizes beautifully on the salmon during baking. For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, you can simply omit the honey from the glaze, or use a sugar-free alternative.
• Sriracha Sauce – This hot sauce adds a fantastic layer of subtle heat and tang to the honey glaze. As mentioned, feel free to adjust the amount to your spice preference, or swap it for soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a dash of red pepper flakes for a different kind of kick.
• Sesame Seeds & Lemon – These are optional garnishes but highly recommended. Toasted sesame seeds add a lovely nutty crunch, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the entire dish, cutting through the richness of the salmon and cream cheese.

How To Make Spinach Stuffed Salmon Step By Step: A Simple Guide

Creating this impressive spinach stuffed salmon is much simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps for a perfectly cooked and flavorful meal:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even cooking once your salmon is ready to go in.
2. Prepare the Creamy Filling and Honey Glaze: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, the two cloves of fresh minced garlic, and the chopped fresh spinach. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they are well incorporated and the spinach is evenly distributed throughout the creamy base. The mixture should be thick and cohesive. In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the honey and sriracha sauce until they are fully combined and form a smooth, glossy glaze. This separation ensures both components are ready when needed.
3. Prepare the Salmon Fillets: Carefully take each salmon fillet and, using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal pocket into the thickest part of the fish. Be sure not to cut all the way through to the other side; you want to create a pocket for the stuffing. Aim to cut about three-quarters of the way through. Once the pockets are made, season both sides of each salmon fillet generously with Old Bay seasoning. If using salt and pepper, season lightly to taste.
4. Stuff, Glaze, and Bake: Now for the fun part! Gently fill each salmon pocket with 1-2 tablespoons of the prepared cream cheese and spinach mixture. Don’t overstuff, as the filling might ooze out during baking. Once stuffed, lightly brush the tops of the salmon fillets with the honey-sriracha glaze. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Bake in the preheated oven for 16 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145 degrees F (63 degrees C) at its thickest point.
5. Garnish and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the salmon from the oven. If desired, sprinkle with a teaspoon of toasted sesame seeds for an added crunch and visual appeal. Serve immediately with a fresh lemon wedge on the side, allowing guests to squeeze fresh lemon juice over their portion for a burst of bright flavor. Enjoy your delicious homemade spinach stuffed salmon!

Top Tips For The Perfect Stuffed Salmon Every Time

Achieving restaurant-quality spinach stuffed salmon at home is within reach with these expert tips:

• Choose Your Salmon Wisely: The quality of your salmon significantly impacts the final dish. I consistently recommend using fresh salmon over frozen, as it tends to have a better texture and richer flavor. Wild-caught varieties like King salmon or Sockeye salmon are excellent choices for this recipe due to their firm texture and vibrant color. If using frozen, thaw it completely and pat it meticulously dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture, which can make the salmon steam rather than bake beautifully.
• Make it Low Carb & Keto-Friendly: For those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, this recipe is easily adaptable. Simply omit the honey from the glaze mixture. The sriracha, garlic, and Old Bay seasoning will still provide plenty of robust flavor, ensuring a delicious and healthy meal that fits your dietary needs.
• Elevate Your Side Dishes: To truly transform this dish into a restaurant-quality experience, pair it with complementary sides. Fluffy white rice is a classic choice, soaking up any delicious juices. Alternatively, creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting contrast. Other fantastic options include roasted asparagus, green beans almandine, a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette, or even quinoa for a wholesome grain.
• Storage and Reheating Leftovers: If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them properly to maintain freshness. Place any remaining spinach stuffed salmon in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in an oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until just warmed through, to prevent drying out the fish. The microwave can also be used, but use short intervals on a lower power setting to preserve moisture.
• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon cooks relatively quickly, and overcooked salmon can become dry and tough. Keep a close eye on it, especially during the last few minutes of baking. It’s done when it easily flakes with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees F. A meat thermometer is your best friend here!

What Is The Best Method To Cook Stuffed Salmon?

While baking in the oven is a fantastic and often preferred method for this stuffed salmon recipe due to its ease and even cooking, it’s not the only way to achieve delicious results. Different cooking methods can yield slightly different textures and flavors, offering versatility based on your preference and available equipment.

Baking (Oven Method)

As detailed in the recipe, baking this salmon in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 16 minutes is ideal. This method allows the salmon to cook gently and evenly, ensuring the creamy spinach filling heats through without drying out the fish. It’s a hands-off approach, perfect for when you’re preparing side dishes simultaneously. The honey glaze will beautifully caramelize, forming a slightly sticky, flavorful crust.

Stovetop (Pan-Searing Method)

If you prefer a crispy skin and a quicker cook time, pan-searing is an excellent alternative. To cook your stuffed salmon on the stovetop:

• Heat a tablespoon of high-smoke-point oil (like avocado or canola) in a large, oven-safe skillet (cast iron works wonderfully) over medium-high heat until shimmering.
• Carefully place the salmon fillets, skin side down first (if they have skin). Cook for 5-6 minutes on the skin side, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure full contact with the pan. This will render the fat and make the skin wonderfully crisp.
• Flip the salmon and cook for another 3-5 minutes on the flesh side, or until the salmon is cooked through to your liking. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your fillets.
• The thickest part of the salmon fillet should have a minimum internal temperature of 145 degrees F (63 degrees C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• You can still apply the honey glaze in the last few minutes of cooking on the stovetop, brushing it on the flesh side.

Air Fryer Method (Quick & Crispy)

For an even quicker and slightly crispier finish, an air fryer can be used. Prepare the salmon as directed, then air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-14 minutes, depending on thickness, flipping halfway through. Keep a close eye on it to prevent drying out.

No matter which method you choose, the goal is tender, moist salmon with a perfectly cooked interior. Always monitor the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.

Variations & Customizations

This spinach stuffed salmon recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing for numerous variations to suit your taste and pantry. Don’t hesitate to get creative!

• Cheese Swaps: While cream cheese is fantastic, consider swapping it out or mixing it with other soft cheeses. Feta cheese adds a salty, tangy Mediterranean flair, while crumbled goat cheese offers a unique earthy flavor. For an extra gooey texture, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or Gruyere can be added to the cream cheese mixture.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can significantly enhance the flavor profile. Finely chopped dill, parsley, chives, or even a touch of fresh basil would be delightful additions to the spinach and cream cheese filling.
• Vegetable Boost: Want to add more vegetables? Sautéed mushrooms, finely diced bell peppers, or even a handful of sun-dried tomatoes (patted dry and chopped) can be mixed into the stuffing for added texture and flavor. Just make sure any additional vegetables are finely chopped and pre-cooked if they release a lot of moisture.
• Spice Level Adjustment: If you love heat, increase the amount of sriracha in the glaze, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture. For a completely different kind of spicy, a touch of smoked paprika or a tiny bit of cayenne pepper can be incorporated.
• Glaze Alternatives: The honey-sriracha glaze is delicious, but you can experiment! A lemon-garlic butter sauce (melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic) brushed on top before baking creates a bright, rich flavor. A teriyaki glaze or a sweet chili sauce could also add an Asian-inspired twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about making spinach stuffed salmon:

• Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
  Yes, you can. If using frozen salmon, ensure it is completely thawed in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water. It’s crucial to pat the fillets very dry with paper towels before cutting and seasoning to remove any excess moisture, which can lead to a less desirable texture.
• How do I know when my salmon is fully cooked?
  Salmon is typically done when it flakes easily with a fork at its thickest point and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh should change from translucent to opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as salmon can quickly become dry.
• Can I prepare the stuffed salmon ahead of time?
  You can prepare the spinach and cream cheese filling a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also make the honey glaze ahead of time. However, it’s best to stuff the salmon just before baking to prevent the salmon from becoming soggy from the filling.
• What are good side dishes to serve with spinach stuffed salmon?
  This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Some popular choices include fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables (like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts), a fresh green salad, quinoa, or even couscous.
• Is this recipe healthy?
  Absolutely! Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. Spinach adds a boost of vitamins A, C, and K, plus iron. While cream cheese adds richness, using a lighter cream cheese option can reduce calories and fat. The overall dish provides a balanced and nutritious meal.

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