Buttery Cheesy Basa

Hey foodie friend! Ready to dive into a dish that’s buttery, cheesy, and simply irresistible? Let me introduce you to Buttery Cheesy Basa — a recipe that’s all about those tender, flaky basa fillets smothered in rich, garlicky, cheesy goodness. This dish has a way of filling your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aroma and your plate with pure comfort.

Basa, for those who might not know, is a mild, white fish with a delicate texture that takes on flavors beautifully. It’s super budget-friendly too, making this recipe a perfect blend of elegance and everyday ease. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, trust me, you’re going to love this one. It’s creamy, zesty, and has just enough kick to keep things interesting without overpowering the fish.

Why You’ll Love Buttery Cheesy Basa

This dish isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or treating your loved ones to something special, this buttery cheesy delight fits the bill. Here’s why it’s a total winner:

Is this Buttery Cheesy Basa for you? Let’s see. Buttery Cheesy Basa is…

1. Silky and tender—each basa fillet melts in your mouth like a dream.
2. Bursting with flavor—the garlic, lemon, and cheese combo is downright addictive.
3. Crispy on top—thanks to that golden panko breadcrumb sprinkle.
4. Comfort food with a gourmet twist, perfect for any occasion.
5. Quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners feel like a treat.

Pro tip: For an even richer flavor, sprinkle extra asiago cheese just before serving!

Ingredients in Buttery Cheesy Basa

Here’s the magic of this dish — simple ingredients that come together to create pure joy on a plate:

Basa Fillets: Mild, flaky fish that acts as the perfect canvas for all those luscious flavors.

Minced Garlic: Adds a fragrant punch and depth.

Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, rich coating that keeps the fish moist.

Shredded Asiago Cheese: Sharp and nutty, it melts beautifully into the sauce.

Butter: Adds that irresistible silky, rich texture.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning just right.

Dried Basil: A subtle herbaceous note that complements the lemon zest.

Lemon Pepper: A zesty spice to brighten up the flavors.

Cayenne Pepper & Turmeric: A pinch of warmth and color without overpowering the dish.

Lemon Zest and Juice: Fresh citrusy bursts that lift the whole recipe.

Panko Breadcrumbs: For that perfect crunchy topping.

Light Olive Oil: Helps the breadcrumbs crisp up nicely.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this buttery, cheesy masterpiece:

Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to give your basa that perfect golden crust.

Prepare the Coating: In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, mayonnaise, shredded asiago cheese, butter, salt, pepper, dried basil, lemon pepper, cayenne pepper, turmeric, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This creamy mixture is where all the magic happens.

Coat the Basa: Place the basa fillets on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Spread the cheesy mixture evenly over each fillet—make sure they’re well coated for maximum flavor.

Add the Crunch: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the coated fillets, then drizzle lightly with olive oil to help them crisp up.

Bake to Perfection: Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the topping is golden and crunchy.

Serve and Enjoy: Let the fish rest for a minute, then plate up. Garnish with a little extra asiago or fresh herbs if you like!

How to Serve Buttery Cheesy Basa?

Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a lemon vinaigrette will add a refreshing contrast to the richness.

Steamed Veggies: Think asparagus, green beans, or broccoli for a healthy, colorful side.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes pair perfectly with the buttery fish.

Rice or Quinoa: Soak up all those delicious juices.

Simply on its own: Sometimes, this dish stands beautifully alone with just a wedge of lemon.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 fillet
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: Mix the cheesy garlic topping the night before to save time. Keep it chilled until ready to use.

Spice It Up: Add smoked paprika for a smoky twist or swap cayenne for chili powder if you prefer a milder heat.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the topping crispy.

Double the Batch: Perfect for meal prep or sharing with friends!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use other types of fish?
A1: Definitely! This recipe works well with cod, tilapia, or haddock too.

Q2: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A2: You can swap asiago cheese and butter for dairy-free alternatives or nutritional yeast and olive oil.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crunch.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the basa fillets before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat?
A5: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to keep that topping crispy.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Absolutely! Just use a bigger baking dish and adjust baking time slightly.

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That’s it, friend! This Buttery Cheesy Basa is your new go-to for a meal that’s easy, flavorful, and downright comforting. Whip it up tonight and enjoy that perfect balance of creamy, crispy, and fresh flavors. Happy cooking!