Description
Buttery Cheesy Basa is a rich and comforting seafood dish featuring tender, flaky basa fish baked in a creamy garlic butter sauce topped with a melty blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. This easy-to-make recipe delivers indulgent flavor and a cheesy crust, perfect for a family-friendly meal or elegant dinner at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 fresh basa fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup grated cheese (1/2 cup Parmesan and 1/2 cup mozzarella)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Basa Fillets: Pat the basa fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which helps the butter and cheese adhere better and promotes even cooking.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, taking care not to brown the garlic. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice, then let the mixture simmer gently until it thickens and the flavors blend.
- Assemble the Dish: Place the basa fillets in a baking dish. Pour the garlic butter cream sauce evenly over the fish. Sprinkle the grated cheese mixture generously on top, creating an even cheesy crust.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dish for 15-18 minutes, until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the cheese topping is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and melty.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter for better blending in the sauce.
- Do not overcook the basa to keep it tender and moist; watch for flaking.
- Grate cheese fresh for more even melting and better flavor.
- Add lemon juice gradually and taste to balance brightness without losing richness.
- Allow the dish to rest a couple of minutes after baking to let the sauce set for easier plating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with sauce and cheese
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: basa fish recipe, cheesy fish bake, buttery fish, easy seafood dinner, creamy fish recipe, kid-friendly fish dish
