This Baked Fish with Cheese Sauce is a comforting and delicious dish that combines the delicate flavors of tender white fish with a rich and creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is both easy to prepare and satisfying. The cheese sauce, made with a blend of sharp cheddar and Parmesan, adds a delightful layer of flavor that complements the mild fish beautifully. Serve it with steamed vegetables or a simple side salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or tilapia)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Prepare the Fish: Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Place them in the prepared baking dish and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Bake the Fish: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the fish fillets in the baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Garnish the baked fish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy baked fish with your favorite side dishes!
This dish is versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste by using different types of cheese or adding herbs and spices to the sauce. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that’s sure to impress.
