If you’re looking to impress with something deliciously simple, then this Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender basa fillets bathed in a rich, creamy sauce loaded with melted Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, all accented with garlic and a hint of oregano. Every bite is pure comfort, combining buttery smoothness and cheesy goodness that feels both indulgent and light. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings warmth and flavor to your table faster than you’d expect.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building that luxurious texture and irresistible taste. From the mild, flaky basa fillets to the rich cheeses and aromatic herbs, every component is essential to create the perfect balance in the Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe.
- 4 basa fillets (about 4 oz each): The star of the dish, these mild, tender fillets soak up flavors beautifully and cook quickly.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds an indulgent, creamy richness and helps achieve that golden sear.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Provides a balanced cooking fat that enhances the butter without burning.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory punch that complements the cheese perfectly.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce a dreamy, silky texture that clings to every bite.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, salty depth and luscious melt to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Ensures gooey, melty cheesiness that makes this dish irresistible.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds a subtle herbal note that freshens up the rich sauce.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning that perfectly balances all the flavors.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Provides a bright, fresh finish that contrasts the creamy sauce.
- 1 lemon, sliced (for serving): Offers a zesty brightness to cut through the richness for an elevated taste.
How to Make Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe
Step 1: Season the Basa Fillets
Start by gently seasoning your basa fillets with salt, pepper, and dried oregano on both sides. This simple seasoning ensures each bite is flavorful, allowing the natural mildness of the fish to shine through while complementing the creamy cheese sauce that’s coming next.
Step 2: Sear the Fillets
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter melts and starts to sizzle. Carefully place the seasoned basa fillets in the pan and cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. You’re aiming for a gorgeous golden brown crust that locks in moisture while the inside remains tender and flaky. Once cooked, set them aside for the next stage.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just about a minute until you smell that irresistible garlicky aroma. Then pour in the heavy cream while stirring to combine, making sure to scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan bottom. This step is where the sauce starts to build its rich base with layers of flavor.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses
Turn the heat down to low and add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses to the creamy mixture. Stir continuously until everything melts smoothly into a luscious, cheesy sauce that’s perfectly thickened and ready to elevate the basa fillets.
Step 5: Finish Cooking with Sauce
Return the basa fillets to the skillet and spoon generous amounts of the creamy cheesy sauce over them. Let everything simmer together on low heat for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to fully coat the fish in all its buttery, cheesy glory.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once finished, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Arrange lemon slices on the side to squeeze over each serving, adding a lively contrast that brightens this rich dish.
How to Serve Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is more than just decoration; it introduces a fresh herbal note that beautifully cuts through the richness. Pairing the dish with lemon slices allows each person to add a splash of citrusy brightness, which makes the creamy cheese sauce feel even more balanced and vibrant.
Side Dishes
This Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe pairs wonderfully with light, complementary sides. Think fluffy steamed rice to soak up that luscious sauce, or a medley of steamed vegetables that add a subtle crunch and freshness. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing counterpoint to the dish’s creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a little extra flair, serve your basa fillets atop a bed of sautéed spinach or garlic-infused mashed potatoes to create a restaurant-worthy plating at home. Drizzle any remaining cheesy sauce artistically over the fish and garnish with a few microgreens or edible flowers. Presentation like this makes the Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe feel truly special and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extras, store the cooked basa fillets and sauce together in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 2 days and retain the same creamy delight when reheated gently.
Freezing
While fresh is best to enjoy the buttery and cheesy textures, you can freeze the cooked basa with sauce in a sealed container for up to a month. Just be aware that the texture of the fish may soften slightly upon thawing, so it’s ideal for quick meals where convenience comes first.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the basa gently in a skillet over low heat, covering it to help keep moisture locked in. This helps maintain the sauce’s creaminess and prevents the fish from drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the texture intact and flavors vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While basa is mild and perfect for soaking up the buttery cheesy sauce, you can substitute with cod, tilapia, or even haddock for a similar effect. Just adjust cooking times slightly depending on thickness.
Is this dish suitable for weeknight dinners?
Without a doubt. The Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe comes together in about 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a fast but impressive home-cooked meal after a busy day.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To adapt it to dairy-free needs, swap butter for a dairy-free margarine and use coconut cream or a lactose-free cream alternative. Nutritional yeast could replace cheese, but the texture and flavor will be different from the original but still tasty!
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully, as their acidity cuts through the creamy sauce and complements the delicate fish flavors perfectly.
How do I ensure the fish doesn’t overcook?
Because basa cooks quickly, keep a close eye during searing and cook just until it flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking can dry it out, so timing and gentle heat are key for that buttery tenderness.
Final Thoughts
This Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s rich but balanced, simple yet sophisticated, and absolutely comforting every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how effortlessly you can bring buttery, cheesy joy to your dinner table. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become a favorite go-to for satisfying, flavorful meals.
Print
Buttery Cheesy Basa Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Buttery Cheesy Basa recipe features tender basa fillets cooked in a rich, creamy Parmesan and mozzarella cheese sauce with a hint of garlic and oregano. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a comforting and elegant dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 basa fillets (about 4 oz each)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Cooking fats & seasoning
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauces and cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions
- Season the fish: Pat the basa fillets dry, then season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano to enhance flavor.
- Cook the basa fillets: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. When the butter is melted and sizzling, add the basa fillets. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the fillets turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and start sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet bottom to add flavor.
- Add cheeses to sauce: Lower the heat to low. Stir in grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and forms a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine fish and sauce: Return the cooked basa fillets to the skillet. Spoon the cheesy sauce generously over the top. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat to warm the fish through and fully meld the flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the fish and garnish with lemon slices. Serve immediately with a side of rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- For best results, pat the fish dry before seasoning to ensure a nice sear.
- You can substitute basa with other mild white fish like cod or tilapia.
- If heavy cream is unavailable, use half-and-half but expect a slightly thinner sauce.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and enhances flavor compared to pre-grated.
- Serve with lemon wedges to add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich sauce.
