Are you craving a dish that's both elegant and effortlessly delicious? Look no further than scalloped oysters! This classic recipe is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner. The creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly complements the briny sweetness of the oysters, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience. Get ready to impress yourself and your guests with this simple yet sophisticated homemade cooking masterpiece.
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4 as a starter or 2 as a main course.
- 2 dozen fresh oysters, shucked and liquor reserved
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup dry bread crumbs
Instructions:
Preparing the Oysters:
- Carefully shuck the oysters, reserving the liquor in a separate bowl. Be mindful of sharp edges!
- Remove any bits of shell from the oysters.
Making the Creamy Sauce:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour until smooth, creating a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Stir in the salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Assembling and Baking:
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the oysters.
- Pour half of the creamy sauce over the oysters.
- Sprinkle half of the cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
- Repeat layers with the remaining oysters, sauce, and cheese.
- Top with bread crumbs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown and melted. The oysters should be cooked through and heated thoroughly.
Tips for Success:
- Fresh Oysters are Key: Using fresh, high-quality oysters significantly impacts the flavor of this dish.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked oysters become tough. The baking time is a guideline; adjust based on your oven.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyere, Fontina, or a blend of your favorites would be delicious.
Variations:
- Add some herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley would complement the oysters beautifully. Add a tablespoon or two to the sauce.
- Spice it up: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Seafood additions: A few cooked shrimp or scallops would add another layer of flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. This is an estimate for one serving from a 4-serving recipe:
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Fat: Approximately 30-35g
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This scalloped oyster recipe is a delicious and relatively healthy meal option, perfect for those looking for easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. The combination of creamy sauce and juicy oysters creates a satisfying and flavorful experience that's sure to become a favorite. Enjoy!