Indulge your senses with the luxurious flavor of Decadent Baked Scalloped Oysters in Garlic Herb Cream. This sophisticated dish marries the briny taste of fresh oysters with the rich, creamy goodness of garlic and herb-infused sauce, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for your family or setting up an elegant gathering with friends, this recipe steals the show with its gourmet appeal and exquisite taste. Imagine the delightful fusion of tender, succulent oysters draped in a silky cream sauce that is elevated by a hint of white wine, aromatic garlic, and the distinctive touch of Old Bay seasoning.
Baked to perfection, these scalloped oysters boast a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping, coalesced with grated Parmesan cheese, that provides a satisfying contrast in texture. As you bite into this dish, each flavor unfolds harmoniously, showcasing a beautiful balance of sea-sweetness and creamy indulgence. The preparation is straightforward yet feels inherently special, making it an ideal choice for transforming an ordinary dinner into a feast.
Why You’ll Love This Decadent Baked Scalloped Oysters in Garlic Herb Cream
This classy yet comforting dish offers several benefits that are sure to win you over:
- Easy to prepare with simple and fresh ingredients.
- A perfect blend of creamy, savory, and aromatic flavors.
- Impressive presentation that will wow your guests.
- Flexible recipe great for personalization with your favorite spices or herbs.
- An exquisite treat that brings a restaurant-quality meal to your home.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this delectable recipe, set the stage for smooth cooking by preparing your kitchen and gathering necessary tools. Start by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized. You will need a medium-sized saucepan for creating the creamy garlic sauce and a suitable baking dish for arranging the oysters snugly.
Have your measuring cups and spoons on hand to ensure precise quantities of ingredients, particularly the butter, cream, and seasoning, which are vital for flavor balance. A sharp knife and a cutting board are essential for mincing the garlic and chopping fresh parsley. Make sure you have a strainer ready to drain the oysters if needed, and a small mixing bowl to combine the breadcrumb topping. Lastly, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to bake once your oysters are prepped.
Ingredients
- 1 pint fresh oysters, shucked
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Begin by heating a saucepan over medium heat. Melt the butter until it starts to bubble and then add the minced garlic. Stir the garlic in for about a minute until it becomes fragrant, setting a tantalizing base for your cream sauce.
Step 2: Create the Cream Sauce
Add the heavy cream, dry white wine, and Old Bay seasoning to the saucepan. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine the flavors and let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes. This step allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, culminating in a sauce laced with aromatic notes from the seasoning and wine.
Step 3: Prepare the Oysters
Line a baking dish with the fresh shucked oysters, ensuring they’re evenly spaced. Pour the simmered cream sauce over the oysters, allowing each oyster to be generously coated in this luscious mixture.
Step 4: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping
In a small mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. Mix them well, and then sprinkle this topping evenly over the oysters. This topping will bake into a crispy, flavorful layer that adds texture and depth to the dish.
Step 5: Bake
Place the prepared baking dish into your preheated oven and bake the oysters for 15-20 minutes. They are done when the topping achieves a lovely golden brown and the cream sauce is bubbly. Remove from the oven, and serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Variations
- Protein: Swap the oysters with clams or scallops for a different seafood twist.
- Vegetables: Add spinach or kale underneath the oysters for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika for a spicier version.
Cooking Notes
- For the best results, use the freshest oysters available.
- Adjust the level of seasoning and garlic to your personal taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a crisp, chilled Chablis or Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the seafood flavors.
- Complement with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Tips
- Use breadcrumbs made from a day-old baguette for the best texture.
- If your oven broils, give the dish a quick broil at the end for extra crispness.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: approximately 300 per serving
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 450mg
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cream sauce and bread mixture ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake just before serving.
What can I substitute for Old Bay seasoning?
If Old Bay is not available, try using a mix of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and ginger for a similar result.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular breadcrumbs with a gluten-free version to accommodate dietary needs.
What sides pair well with these scalloped oysters?
Simple arugula salad, roasted vegetables, or a buttery mashed potato would complement the richness of the dish well.
Conclusion
The Decadent Baked Scalloped Oysters in Garlic Herb Cream is a masterpiece of elegance and flavor that is sure to be the highlight of your menu. Every element from the creamy garlic-herb sauce to the bubbly, crisp topping works in harmony to elevate the natural taste of the oysters. We hope this recipe inspires you to explore more seafood dishes and embrace gourmet cooking at home. Don’t forget to leave a comment sharing your thoughts or any variations you tried, and feel free to drop this recipe a share with fellow seafood lovers!
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Decadent Baked Scalloped Oysters in Garlic Herb Cream
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge your senses with the luxurious flavor of Decadent Baked Scalloped Oysters in Garlic Herb Cream. This sophisticated dish marries the briny taste of fresh oysters with the rich, creamy goodness of garlic and herb-infused sauce, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients
- 1 pint fresh oysters, shucked
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Begin by heating a saucepan over medium heat. Melt the butter until it starts to bubble and then add the minced garlic. Stir the garlic in for about a minute until it becomes fragrant, setting a tantalizing base for your cream sauce.
- Add the heavy cream, dry white wine, and Old Bay seasoning to the saucepan. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine the flavors and let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes. This step allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, culminating in a sauce laced with aromatic notes from the seasoning and wine.
- Line a baking dish with the fresh shucked oysters, ensuring they’re evenly spaced. Pour the simmered cream sauce over the oysters, allowing each oyster to be generously coated in this luscious mixture.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. Mix them well, and then sprinkle this topping evenly over the oysters. This topping will bake into a crispy, flavorful layer that adds texture and depth to the dish.
- Place the prepared baking dish into your preheated oven and bake the oysters for 15-20 minutes. They are done when the topping achieves a lovely golden brown and the cream sauce is bubbly. Remove from the oven, and serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Notes
For the best results, use the freshest oysters available. Adjust the level of seasoning and garlic to your personal taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Protein: 10 g