If you are craving a dish that’s incredibly comforting yet elegant, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: the Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe. This delightful meal combines tender basa fillets smothered in a luxuriously creamy cheese sauce that’s rich with buttery goodness and a perfect harmony of Parmesan and mozzarella. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing friends over the weekend, this recipe is simple to make yet packed with flavor that truly wows the palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe lies in its simplicity, with ingredients that are easy to find but absolutely essential for creating that melt-in-your-mouth experience. Each component brings its own special touch, from the delicate creaminess of the butter and cheeses to the fresh kick of garlic and herbs that elevate the flavor.
- Basa fillets (4, about 4 oz each): Mild-flavored fish that cooks quickly and stays moist in the cheesy sauce.
- Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps sear the fish beautifully without overpowering the flavors.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Infuses the sauce with a fragrant, savory aroma.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Creates the luscious, creamy base for the cheese sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds sharpness and depth to the cheesy blend.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup): Melts into gooey, stretchy deliciousness that’s utterly irresistible.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): Brings a subtle earthiness that complements the creamy richness.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance every flavor note.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (1 tbsp): Adds a fresh, herbal finish and beautiful color as garnish.
- Lemon, sliced (1): Brightens the dish with a pop of citrusy zest when served.
How to Make Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe
Step 1: Season the Basa Fillets
Start by seasoning your basa fillets generously on both sides with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. This simple seasoning creates a flavor foundation that complements the buttery cheesy sauce without overpowering the delicate fish.
Step 2: Sear the Fish in Butter and Olive Oil
Heat the olive oil and unsalted butter together in a large skillet over medium heat. The combination ensures a beautiful golden crust and juicy interior. Once the butter has melted and the pan is hot, place the seasoned fillets in and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re perfectly browned and cooked through. Remove them from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Prepare Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it releases its heavenly fragrance. Pour in the heavy cream while scraping the bottom of the pan to lift up those delicious browned bits left from the fish. This step enriches your sauce with extra flavor you really don’t want to miss.
Step 4: Melt the Cheeses Into a Velvety Sauce
Turn the heat down to low and add both the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses into the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt fully, creating a smooth and indulgently creamy sauce ready to coat your fish.
Step 5: Combine the Fish and Sauce
Return the basa fillets to the skillet, spooning the thick cheesy sauce generously over the top. Let them cook together for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the fish heats through and the sauce melds beautifully with the basa.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish. Add lemon slices on the side for a zingy contrast that cuts through the buttery richness. Your Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe is now ready to delight anyone lucky enough to taste it.
How to Serve Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice to bring a burst of herbal freshness and vibrant green color to your dish. Lemon slices or wedges not only look charming but also add a refreshing citrus note when squeezed over the fish, balancing the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that let the buttery cheesy basa shine. Think fluffy white rice to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce, steamed or roasted vegetables for a healthy crunch, or even a crisp garden salad to offer contrast and freshness on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or buttered pasta to double down on the comfort factor. You can also plate each fillet with a drizzle of extra sauce and a sprinkle of finely chopped herbs. These little touches make the meal look as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 days. Make sure to keep the sauce with the fish to maintain moisture and flavor.
Freezing
While buttery cheesy sauces don’t always freeze perfectly, you can freeze the basa fillets separately by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe container. Use within 1 month for the best results. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and adding fresh sauce.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the basa fillets with the sauce over low heat on the stove or microwave with short bursts, stirring occasionally. Avoid high heat to keep the sauce creamy and prevent the cheese from separating. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help revive the sauce’s texture if needed.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! Any firm white fish like cod, tilapia, or catfish can work well with this recipe. Just be mindful of cooking times as they may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, try using plant-based butter, coconut cream, and dairy-free cheese alternatives. The flavors change a bit, but it’s still delicious and creamy.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If your sauce feels too runny, sprinkle in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water while stirring on low heat, or let the sauce simmer a little longer until it reduces to your desired thickness.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and bake later?
You can cook the basa and make the sauce ahead of time, then assemble and bake just before serving. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese is bubbly, about 10 minutes.
What wine pairs well with Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe?
A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the creaminess and allows the fish’s delicate flavors to shine without overpowering them.
Final Thoughts
Cooking the Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm, delicious hug full of cheesy, buttery goodness. It’s straightforward to make yet impressive enough to serve guests or enjoy as a comforting family meal. So grab your skillet, gather these simple ingredients, and soon you’ll have a plateful of pure joy that’s bound to become a staple in your cooking repertoire!
Print
Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Western
Description
This Buttery Cheesy Basa recipe features tender basa fillets cooked in a rich, creamy sauce made with butter, garlic, heavy cream, and a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Enhanced with oregano and fresh parsley, this dish is both flavorful and comforting, perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 basa fillets (about 4 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Cooking Fats
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish & Serving
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lemon, sliced (for serving)
Instructions
- Season the Fish: Season the basa fillets evenly on both sides with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano to infuse the fish with herbaceous flavor.
- Cook the Basa Fillets: Heat olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the seasoned basa fillets. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes until the fillets turn golden brown and are fully cooked through. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring you don’t burn the garlic to maintain a delicate taste.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine and deglazing the pan by scraping up any browned bits from cooking the fish, which adds rich flavor to the sauce.
- Add the Cheeses: Lower the heat to low, then add grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Reintroduce the Fish: Return the cooked basa fillets to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy cheesy sauce over the fillets. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm through and allow the cheese to fully melt and coat the fish.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices, then serve immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Notes
- Ensure not to overcook the basa fillets to maintain their delicate texture.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk, though sauce may be less rich.
- Lemon slices add a refreshing zing that complements the creamy sauce well.
- Leftover sauce can be used over pasta or steamed vegetables for an added cheesy touch.
