If you’re on the lookout for a dish that feels both luxurious and comforting, you’ll absolutely fall in love with this Stuffed Catfish with Spinach, Shrimp, and Cheese Recipe. Imagine tender catfish fillets filled with a creamy, flavorful mix of sautéed spinach, succulent shrimp, and gooey cheeses—each bite bursting with freshness and savory goodness. It’s a celebration of coastal flavors that’s surprisingly simple to pull together, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something truly special at home.

Stuffed Catfish with Spinach, Shrimp, and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Bringing this delicious Stuffed Catfish with Spinach, Shrimp, and Cheese Recipe to life is all about balancing fresh, wholesome ingredients that complement each other both in taste and texture. Each element plays a critical role, from the delicate fish to the creamy filling enriched with garlic and lemon zest.

4 fresh boneless catfish fillets: Choose firm, thick fillets to hold the stuffing without falling apart.
1 cup small peeled shrimp, chopped: Adds a sweet, tender bite that pairs beautifully with the fish.
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped: Brings vibrant color and a mild leafy flavor to the stuffing.
4 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates that rich, creamy texture that helps bind the filling together.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses a sharp, savory depth to boost the overall flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Essentials for aromatic warmth and a little bite.
1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the dish, cutting through the richness with a fresh zing.
2 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing and drizzling to keep everything moist and flavorful.
Salt, to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
Black pepper, to taste: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped: Sprinkle on top as a fresh, herbal garnish.

How to Make Stuffed Catfish with Spinach, Shrimp, and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Begin by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it just until you can smell that incredible aroma filling the kitchen. Next, add the fresh spinach and cook until beautifully wilted. Stir in the chopped shrimp and gently cook until they turn pink and tender—this sweet little touch is what elevates your filling from good to unforgettable. Take the skillet off the heat, then mix in the cream cheese, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until everything comes together in a silky, dreamy mixture. Let it cool slightly, so it’s ready to stuff without melting through the fish.

Step 2: Prepare the Catfish

Pat your catfish fillets dry with paper towels to ensure they sear nicely and don’t steam in the oven. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. Carefully make a horizontal slit in each fillet, creating a pocket—this is where all the delicious filling will go. Be gentle to avoid cutting all the way through.

Step 3: Stuff the Catfish Fillets

Generously stuff each catfish fillet pocket with the luscious spinach, shrimp, and cheese mixture. If you want to be sure none of that heavenly filling escapes during baking, secure the edges with toothpicks. It’s a small but smart step for neat, perfect portions.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the stuffed fillets on a greased baking dish or one lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top to lock in moisture and encourage beautifully golden edges. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque. That soft, flaky texture signals your masterpiece is ready!

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once baked, carefully remove any toothpicks from the fillets. For an extra flash of brightness, drizzle some fresh lemon juice over the top or sprinkle chopped herbs like parsley or dill. This final touch makes the dish pop with fresh flavor—it’s the little details that take this Stuffed Catfish with Spinach, Shrimp, and Cheese Recipe from delicious to unforgettable.

How to Serve Stuffed Catfish with Spinach, Shrimp, and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

Keep it fresh and vibrant with chopped parsley or dill; their mild herbal notes add a lovely contrast to the richness of the filling. A wedge of lemon on the side invites your guests to squeeze on as much zestiness as they like, balancing creamy and tangy in each bite.

Side Dishes

This Stuffed Catfish with Spinach, Shrimp, and Cheese Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides that won’t compete with the main star. Consider roasted baby potatoes tossed in herbs, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, or even buttery rice pilaf to soak up those lovely juices.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, serve the catfish on a bed of lightly sautéed seasonal vegetables or pile it atop a creamy mashed cauliflower for a lower-carb option. You can also plate individual portions on small plates garnished with microgreens and edible flowers—perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which might be a rare occasion!), allow the catfish to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days, ensuring the flavors stay fresh and the fish maintains its wonderful texture.

Freezing

Freezing stuffed fish can be tricky because the texture might change slightly, but it is possible. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your stuffed catfish gently in a 325°F (160°C) oven to maintain moisture and prevent overcooking. Heat for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you can, since it tends to dry out delicate fish dishes like this.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! While catfish is perfect for its firm texture and mild flavor, you can substitute with other firm white fish like tilapia, cod, or snapper. Just ensure the fillets are thick enough to hold the stuffing.

Is it necessary to peel and chop the shrimp?

Yes, small peeled shrimp chopped into bite-sized pieces integrate smoothly into the filling, offering tender shrimp bites evenly distributed without overpowering each spoonful.

Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Definitely! You can make the filling up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature before stuffing the fillets for best results.

What cheese works best if I don’t have Parmesan?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago are excellent alternatives that offer a similar sharp, salty flavor to Parmesan. You can also try a mild white cheddar for a different but tasty twist.

How do I know when the catfish is fully cooked?

The fish is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily when gently tested with a fork. Baking times can vary with thickness, so keep an eye on the fillets after 20 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Catfish with Spinach, Shrimp, and Cheese Recipe is a true delight to make and savor. It brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both indulgent and approachable, perfect for creating memorable meals with little fuss. If you’re craving a dish that impresses without stress, give this one a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy catfish!