Stuffed Catfish with Cheese

Stuffed Catfish with Cheese, Spinach & Shrimp (or Crab)

Ingredients:

4 catfish fillets

1 tbsp olive oil or butter

1/2 cup onion, finely chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup fresh spinach (or more if you like)

1/2 lb cooked shrimp or crab meat (chopped if large)

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan

1/2 tsp Old Bay or Cajun seasoning

Salt & pepper to taste

Paprika for topping

Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Sauté the filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil/butter. Add onion and cook until soft, then garlic and cook for 30 sec. Toss in spinach until wilted.

3. Stir in shrimp or crab meat. Cook for 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in cream cheese, shredded cheese, Parmesan, and seasoning.

4. Stuff the catfish: Lay fillets flat. Spoon the filling onto half of each fillet and fold over (or roll, depending on the cut). Secure with toothpicks if needed.

5. Place stuffed fillets in the baking dish. Sprinkle with paprika.

6. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until the fish flakes easily.

7. Optional: Broil for 2 minutes for a golden top.

8. Serve with lemon wedges and maybe a side of rice, grits, or roasted veggies.