Stuffed Catfish with cheese spinach and shrimp

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Cooking Intensity: Moderate
Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Filling:

1. Cook Spinach:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and minced garlic, and cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. Combine Filling Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked shrimp, wilted spinach, shredded mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Stuff the Catfish:

1. Prepare Fillets:
   • Lay the catfish fillets flat on a clean surface. Season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper.
2. Add Filling:
   • Divide the filling mixture evenly among the fillets, placing it in the center of each fillet.
3. Roll and Secure:
   • Carefully roll up each fillet around the filling, starting from the narrower end. Secure the rolls with toothpicks if necessary.

4. Bake the Stuffed Catfish:

1. Arrange in Baking Dish:
   • Place the stuffed catfish fillets in the prepared baking dish, seam side down.
2. Add Butter:
   • Dot the top of each fillet with small pieces of butter.
3. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the catfish is cooked through and the filling is hot and bubbly.

5. Serve:

1. Remove Toothpicks:
   • Carefully remove any toothpicks from the fillets before serving.
2. Serve Hot:
   • Serve the stuffed catfish hot, garnished with lemon wedges.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 380
• Total Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 135mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 34g

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Catfish:

• Freshness: Ensure the catfish fillets are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
• Variations: Substitute the shrimp with crab meat or lobster for a different twist.
• Accompaniment: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Enjoy your delectable Stuffed Catfish with Cheese, Spinach, and Shrimp!