Spinach Stuffed Flounder

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful seafood dish that’s as impressive as it is simple, look no further than Spinach Stuffed Flounder. This dish combines tender flounder fillets with a creamy, savory filling of spinach, cream cheese, and tangy feta, making it a perfect option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With a touch of Old Bay seasoning, this recipe highlights the delicate flavor of the flounder while adding a burst of taste. It’s a meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Why Cooks Rave About It

The beauty of Spinach Stuffed Flounder lies in its versatility. It’s a dish that balances elegance and ease, making it a favorite among home cooks and food enthusiasts alike. The creamy filling adds richness to the light flounder, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s not just delicious; it’s also loaded with nutrients from the spinach, making it a wholesome choice for those looking to indulge without the guilt.

Ingredient Breakdown

To create this flavorful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 6 flounder fillets (about 4-6 ounces each, boneless & skinless) – The star of the dish, tender and mild in flavor.
• 1 tsp Old Bay Seasoning or to taste – Adds a classic seafood flavor that enhances the dish.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – For cooking and adding richness.
• 3 oz cream cheese (softened) – Brings creaminess to the filling.
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese (shredded) – Melts beautifully and adds a stretchy texture.
• ½ cup feta cheese (crumbled) – Adds a tangy flavor that complements the spinach.
• 3 oz baby spinach (roughly chopped) – The healthy green that brightens the filling.

What’s in the Gear List

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary kitchen tools:

• Sharp knife – For slicing and preparing the flounder and spinach.
• Mixing bowl – To combine the filling ingredients seamlessly.
• Baking dish – To bake the stuffed flounder to perfection.
• Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot dishes!
• Spatula – For gently transferring the stuffed fillets.

Spinach Stuffed Flounder — Do This Next

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Spinach Stuffed Flounder:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your flounder cooks evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, crumbled feta, and chopped spinach. Season the mixture with a pinch of Old Bay seasoning. Use a fork to mix everything until it’s well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Season the Flounder

Take your flounder fillets and place them on a clean surface. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle the remaining Old Bay seasoning over them. Ensure each fillet is evenly coated to enhance the flavor.

Step 4: Stuff the Fillets

Spoon a generous amount of the spinach filling onto one end of each flounder fillet. Gently roll the fillet over the filling, securing it in place. If needed, you can use toothpicks to hold them together.

Step 5: Arrange in Baking Dish

Place the stuffed flounder fillets seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Make sure they are arranged neatly and not overcrowded.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the flounder in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The filling should be hot and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. These flounder fillets are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, perhaps with a side of rice or a green salad.

Season-by-Season Upgrades

To keep your Spinach Stuffed Flounder exciting throughout the year, consider these seasonal upgrades:

• Spring: Add fresh herbs like dill or chives to the filling for a burst of freshness.
• Summer: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a sweet touch.
• Fall: Mix in some grated butternut squash for added sweetness and nutrition.
• Winter: A sprinkle of nutmeg can warm up the flavors of the filling.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Even experienced cooks can stumble when making Spinach Stuffed Flounder. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overstuffing: While it’s tempting to add extra filling, overstuffing can lead to messy results and uneven cooking.
• Not seasoning enough: Flounder is mild, so be generous with the seasoning to enhance its natural flavor.
• Using cold filling: Ensure your filling is at room temperature for easy spreading and even cooking.
• Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven for consistent cooking and to achieve that perfect flaky texture.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Planning a busy week? You can easily prepare Spinach Stuffed Flounder ahead of time:

To make ahead, prepare the filling and stuff the flounder fillets as directed. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove the cover and bake as directed.

For storage, leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the flakiness of the fish.

Reader Q&A

Can I use other types of fish instead of flounder?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other mild, flaky fish like sole or tilapia. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for cream cheese. Just keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly.

Is it possible to freeze the stuffed flounder?

Yes! You can freeze the uncooked, stuffed flounder. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

This Spinach Stuffed Flounder recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your cheese labels to ensure they don’t contain any additives that may include gluten.

Explore More

If you’re inspired to explore more delicious recipes, check out these options:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction – Delightful desserts and baking tips.
• Pinch of Yum – Wholesome and hearty meal ideas.
• Minimalist Baker – Simple, plant-based recipes to inspire your cooking.

Serve & Enjoy

And there you have it—your very own Spinach Stuffed Flounder! This dish is not only delicious but also a fun way to bring a taste of the sea into your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe is bound to be a hit. The combination of creamy filling and flaky fish creates a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and let the flavors of Spinach Stuffed Flounder take you on a culinary adventure!