Looking to bring something luxurious, flavorful, and slightly unexpected to your dinner table? This Stuffed Catfish with Spinach, Shrimp, and Cheese combines Southern soul with creamy, cheesy richness for a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. If you’re a fan of seafood or simply searching for a new way to enjoy fish, this recipe is bound to become a weeknight favorite or an impressive dinner party feature.
Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a total standout.
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Catfish Recipe
- 🐟 Light yet indulgent – flaky catfish paired with a creamy, cheesy shrimp and spinach stuffing
- 🌿 Wholesome ingredients that create an impressive presentation with minimal effort
- 🍤 Protein-packed from shrimp and cheese, making it a hearty and satisfying meal
- 🍽️ Perfect for all skill levels, whether you’re new to seafood or a seasoned home chef
- 🔁 Versatile and customizable – swap in your favorite fish or greens and enjoy a whole new twist
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of what goes into this rich and flavorful seafood dish:
- 4 catfish fillets
- 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Tip: Use wild-caught catfish and fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. You can also opt for pre-cooked shrimp to save time.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board and knife
- Baking dish
- Toothpicks (optional, for securing fillets)
- Oven
- Spatula or spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get ready for baking the catfish to tender perfection.
2. Cook the Shrimp and Spinach Filling
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Then add the shrimp, cooking until they turn pink and are fully cooked through—about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, then remove from heat.
Shortcut: Use baby spinach to skip chopping, and pre-cooked shrimp to cut your cooking time in half.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp and spinach mixture with:
- Mozzarella
- Cream cheese
- Parmesan
- Lemon zest
- Salt and pepper
Mix thoroughly until you get a rich, cheesy filling.
4. Stuff the Catfish Fillets
Place each catfish fillet on a clean surface. Spoon the filling onto one side of each fillet and fold over to form a “pocket.” If needed, secure with toothpicks to hold them closed.
Tip: Don’t overfill the fillets—leave a little room for expansion during baking.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the stuffed fillets in a lightly greased baking dish. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added crunch (optional).
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the tops are lightly golden.
6. Serve and Garnish
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed catfish fillets are incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas for complete, balanced plates:
Side Dishes:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Lemon butter asparagus
- Roasted zucchini and squash
- Cajun rice or dirty rice
- Buttered corn on the cob
Drink Pairings:
- White wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
- Sparkling water with citrus slices
- Lemon iced tea with fresh mint
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare because they’re that good), follow these steps:
Refrigeration:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F for about 10 minutes, covered loosely with foil.
- Microwave: Reheat on medium power for 1–2 minutes, though the texture may soften slightly.
Note: Avoid freezing due to the cream cheese in the filling—it may alter the texture when thawed.
Tips & Variations
- 🧀 Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese or ricotta for a tangier, creamier filling
- 🐠 Fish Alternatives: Use tilapia, cod, or flounder if catfish isn’t available
- 🌶️ Add a kick: Mix in a pinch of Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes
- 🍄 Mushroom Mix: Add sautéed mushrooms to the filling for earthy depth
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen catfish fillets?
Yes, just make sure they’re completely thawed and patted dry before stuffing and baking.
What can I substitute for catfish?
Tilapia, sole, or any other flaky white fish works well in this recipe.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the catfish a few hours ahead, then refrigerate until ready to bake.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
To make it keto-friendly, omit the breadcrumbs and double-check your cheese selections for added sugars.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffed Catfish with Spinach, Shrimp, and Cheese recipe is a flavorful celebration of everything we love about Southern comfort food—fresh seafood, creamy richness, and that unmistakable touch of lemon and garlic. It’s hearty, it’s elegant, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re treating your family to something special or planning a romantic seafood dinner, this dish never disappoints.
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