Stuffed Catfish with Cheese, Spinach, and Shrimp

Stuffed Catfish with Cheese, Spinach, and Shrimp is a delightful and elegant dish that’s perfect for a special dinner or a gathering. The combination of tender catfish, creamy cheese, fresh spinach, and succulent shrimp makes for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

SERVINGS

• Serves: 4

INGREDIENTS

• Stuffing:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 oz (225g) baby spinach leaves
  • 1/2 cup small cooked shrimp, chopped
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Catfish:
  • 4 catfish fillets
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
• Topping:
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • 1. Prepare the Stuffing:
       • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
       • Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
       • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
       • Add the baby spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
       • Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped shrimp, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well combined and set aside.
    2. Prepare the Catfish:
       • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
       • Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
       • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
       • Sear the catfish fillets for about 2 minutes per side, until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove from heat.
    3. Stuff the Catfish:
       • Place the seared catfish fillets on a clean work surface.
       • Spoon an equal amount of the spinach and shrimp stuffing onto one half of each fillet.
       • Fold the other half of each fillet over the stuffing to create a pocket.
    4. Bake the Catfish:
       • Transfer the stuffed catfish fillets to the oven-safe skillet or a baking dish.
       • In a small bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the stuffed fillets.
       • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the topping is golden and bubbly.
    5. Serve:
       • Remove the stuffed catfish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
       • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot with your choice of sides such as rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

    TIPS

    • Fish Variations: You can use other types of fish like tilapia or sole if catfish is not available.
    • Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
    • Additions: For added texture and flavor, you can include chopped sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts in the stuffing.

    This Stuffed Catfish with Cheese, Spinach, and Shrimp is a delightful and elegant dish that brings together the best of land and sea. Enjoy the creamy, savory stuffing paired with the delicate flavor of catfish for a truly memorable meal.