Spicy Mexican Baked Fish with Mozzarella and Chili

Mexican Baked Fish Recipe

Description

This delightful recipe is inspired by the bold flavors of the Southwestern U.S. cuisine and brings a Mexican flair to the table. With its simple preparation and short cooking time, it is a perfect option for a beginner cook looking for a dish that is both easy to make and nutritious. The spicy kick from Rotel tomatoes and chili powder, combined with the light crunch of cornmeal coating, makes this baked fish recipe an exciting yet healthy choice. Enjoy this flavorful and tender fish, topped with gooey mozzarella cheese, for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Cuisine: Southwestern U.S.
• Skill Level: Beginner
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 295.9 kcal

Keywords

Mexican, Spicy, Under 60 Minutes, Beginner Cook, Easy

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven
   Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). You’ll want the oven hot and ready by the time you’ve finished preparing the fish.

2. Sauté the aromatics
   In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté them together, stirring frequently until they become tender and fragrant, which should take about 3 minutes.

3. Prepare the sauce
   Once the onion and garlic are softened, add the can of Rotel tomatoes and chilies, chili powder, and optional red pepper flakes to the saucepan. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let the sauce simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Prepare the egg mixture
   In a shallow dish, combine the egg white and skim milk. Use a whisk or fork to beat the mixture until it becomes frothy. This will serve as the coating base for the fish.

5. Coat the fish
   Spread the cornmeal onto a sheet of wax paper. Dip each flounder fillet first into the egg white mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated. Then, press the fillets into the cornmeal, coating both sides. This will create a light, crispy coating once baked.

6. Prepare the baking dish
   Lightly coat a 13×9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Place the coated fillets in a single layer inside the dish, ensuring there is enough space between them for even baking.

7. Add the sauce and cheese
   After the sauce has simmered and thickened, pour it evenly over the fillets in the baking dish. Make sure each fillet gets a generous coating of the tomato-chili sauce. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the fish.

8. Bake the fish
   Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. The cheese should be melted and slightly bubbly, adding a rich, savory topping to your dish.

9. Serve and enjoy
   Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve your Mexican Baked Fish alongside your favorite side dishes like rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the bold flavors of this Southwestern-inspired meal!

Tips & Variations

• Fish Alternatives: While flounder is recommended for its mild flavor, you can substitute it with other white fish varieties such as tilapia, cod, or haddock.
• Spice it Up: For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño to the sauce.
• Make it a Meal: Serve with Mexican rice or warm corn tortillas for a complete meal. You can also add a side of guacamole or sour cream to enhance the flavors.
• Cheese Choices: If mozzarella isn’t available, you can use Monterey Jack or a mild cheddar for a different but equally delicious finish.