Stuffed catfish with cheese, spinach and shrimp

Here’s a rich and flavorful recipe for Stuffed Catfish with Cheese, Spinach & Shrimp — perfect for a special dinner but simple enough for home cooking.

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🐟 Stuffed Catfish with Cheese, Spinach & Shrimp

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the catfish:

• 4 catfish fillets (6–8 oz each)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the stuffing:

• 1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the filling

1. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
3. Add spinach and sauté until wilted (about 2–3 minutes). Remove from heat.
4. In a bowl, combine sautéed spinach, chopped shrimp, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.

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2️⃣ Prepare the catfish

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat catfish fillets dry.
3. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
4. Carefully slice a pocket into the thickest part of each fillet (don’t cut all the way through).

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3️⃣ Stuff and bake

1. Spoon stuffing mixture evenly into each fillet pocket.
2. Place stuffed fillets in a lightly greased baking dish.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Bake 18–22 minutes, or until fish flakes easily and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

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Optional Finishing Touch

Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a lightly golden top.

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Serving Ideas

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Lemon butter rice
• Roasted asparagus
• Simple side salad

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Tips

• If fillets are thin, you can layer stuffing on top instead of making a pocket.
• Add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to the filling for a slightly firmer texture.
• For extra richness, drizzle with melted garlic butter before serving.

If you’d like, I can also give you a Cajun-style version with bold seasoning and a creamy Cajun sauce on top.