If you’re searching for a quick, flavorful, and fuss-free way to bring something special to your dinner table, this 4 Ingredients Baked Basa Fish Recipe is an absolute game changer. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh basa fillet, you’ll create a moist, flaky, and perfectly seasoned fish dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare. The magic lies in how these simple ingredients elevate the delicate fish, making it irresistible and ideal for any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this 4 Ingredients Baked Basa Fish Recipe is carefully chosen to enhance the fish’s natural flavor without overpowering it. These seasonings work together to add an inviting aroma, a gentle kick, and a touch of zest—all while keeping the dish light and wholesome.
- Basa fillet (150-200g): Choose fresh or properly thawed fillets for the best texture and moisture.
- Cajun seasoning (1 teaspoon): Adds a bold, slightly smoky spiciness that wakes up the taste buds.
- Sazon seasoning (½ teaspoon): Imparts a savory depth and a beautiful color to the fish.
- Italian seasoning (½ teaspoon): Brings delightful herbal notes that brighten the dish.
- Lemon pepper seasoning (¼ teaspoon): Offers a zesty punch and subtle peppery warmth with a citrus twist.
How to Make 4 Ingredients Baked Basa Fish Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Fish
Start by preheating your oven to 400℉ and lining a baking tray with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. Optionally, lay lemon slices on the tray to lend a subtle, fresh aroma during baking. Now, pat your basa fillet dry with a paper towel—this is an essential step because it ensures the seasoning sticks beautifully to the fish, locking in flavor.
Step 2: Applying Oil and Seasonings
Lightly brush or spray cooking oil on both sides of the basa fillet—this helps keep the fish juicy as it bakes. In a small bowl, mix together the Cajun, sazon, Italian, and lemon pepper seasonings. Sprinkle this vibrant blend evenly over both sides of the fish, gently rubbing it in for maximum flavor penetration. For extra juiciness, spray a little more oil on the fish after seasoning.
Step 3: Baking to Perfection
Place your seasoned basa fillet on the prepared baking sheet, pop it into the oven, and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for the fish to become opaque and flaky, a sign it’s perfectly cooked. If you have a thermometer handy, the internal temperature should reach 145℉. Once done, let the fish rest for 3 minutes; this allows the juices to distribute evenly, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
How to Serve 4 Ingredients Baked Basa Fish Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate your 4 Ingredients Baked Basa Fish Recipe from everyday to elegant. Fresh lemon wedges provide a bright contrast and let your guests add a zesty finish. Chopped parsley or cilantro works beautifully to add color and a fresh herbaceous note that complements the seasoning blend.
Side Dishes
This fish is incredibly versatile, so pairing it with a side is fun and stress-free. A bed of fluffy jasmine rice, quinoa salad, or roasted veggies adds texture and balances the rich flavors. For a lighter option, serve with steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad to keep things refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking outside the box? Serve the baked basa atop a vibrant mango salsa for a tropical twist or wrap it in warm tortillas with avocado and shredded cabbage for a casual fish taco night. The 4 Ingredients Baked Basa Fish Recipe lends itself well to creative plating, making it just as at home on a weekday dinner plate as an impressive dish for guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, cool the fish completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. The texture might be a touch firmer, but the flavor holds up well, making for a convenient next-day meal or snack.
Freezing
While fresh is best with this dish, you can freeze cooked basa if needed. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing to protect against freezer burn. Consume within 1 month for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating
To warm leftovers, gently reheat in a low oven (around 275℉) for 10–15 minutes to maintain the moisture without drying out. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can toughen the fish and reduce its delicious flakiness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this 4 Ingredients Baked Basa Fish Recipe is tailored to basa’s mild flavor and flaky texture, you can substitute with other mild white fish like tilapia or cod. Just adjust baking time as fish thickness varies.
Is it necessary to use all the seasonings listed?
Each seasoning adds its own unique flavor, but if you’re missing one, you can still create a tasty dish by adjusting the others to your taste. However, the blend in this recipe is what makes the flavor so balanced and exciting.
Can I prepare this dish without oil?
While it’s possible, using a light brush or spray of oil helps keep the fish moist and prevents sticking. For a healthier twist, opt for an oil with a high smoke point like avocado or grapeseed oil, used sparingly.
How do I know when the fish is done?
The best indicator is when the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If you have a meat thermometer, an internal temperature of 145℉ ensures safe and perfect doneness.
Can I add salt to the seasoning mix?
There’s no need to add salt since the Cajun and sazon seasonings already contain salt. Adding extra could make the dish too salty, so stick to the recipe for best results.
Final Thoughts
This 4 Ingredients Baked Basa Fish Recipe is one of those rare finds that combines simplicity with outstanding flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying, or when you need a go-to recipe to impress guests without fuss. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how just a few ingredients can transform a simple fish fillet into a memorable meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent.
Print
4 Ingredients Baked Basa Fish Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
Description
A simple and flavorful 4-ingredient baked Basa fish recipe seasoned with a blend of Cajun, Sazon, Italian, and lemon pepper spices. Perfectly baked to flaky perfection, this dish is quick to prepare and ideal for a healthy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Fish
- 1 150-200g Basa fillet, thawed if frozen
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon Sazon seasoning
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon Lemon pepper seasoning
Other
- Cooking oil (for brushing or spraying)
- Optional: lemon slices (for baking sheet)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400℉. Line a baking tray or sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Optionally, place lemon slices on the baking sheet for added flavor.
- Prepare Fish: Pat the Basa fillet dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick. Brush or spray a light coating of cooking oil on both sides of the fish.
- Season Fish: In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, Sazon seasoning, Italian seasoning, and lemon pepper seasoning. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the fish, rubbing gently to coat. Spray a bit more oil on top to keep the fish moist during baking.
- Bake Fish: Place the seasoned Basa fillet on the lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish is flaky and opaque throughout. For accuracy, the internal temperature should reach 145℉.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the fish from the oven and let it rest for 3 minutes to allow the juices to distribute evenly. Serve the baked Basa with your preferred side dishes.
Notes
- Do not add salt, as the seasonings already contain salt.
- Patting the fish dry ensures the seasonings stick well and creates a better crust.
- Avoid overbaking; 12-15 minutes is sufficient to keep the fish moist and flaky.
- Lining the baking tray with parchment paper is best for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
