Cheesy Garlic Butter Oysters: A Perfect Party Appetizer
If you’re looking for a decadent seafood dish that is bursting with rich, garlicky goodness, this Cheesy Herbed Broiled Oysters recipe from Louisiana Cookin is sure to impress. Perfect as an appetizer for a dinner party or a delicious indulgence for a cozy night in, this dish combines the briny sweetness of fresh oysters with a buttery, herb-infused sauce and a smoky cheese topping. Best of all, it comes together in just minutes under the broiler, making it a quick yet luxurious treat. Pair it with some crusty bread to soak up all that flavorful sauce, and you have a dish that will leave everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients:
● 1 pint shucked oysters, drained
● ½ shallot, finely grated
● 10 small cloves garlic, minced
● ½ lemon
● ½ bunch fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
● ¼ cup shaved smoked Gouda cheese
● ¾ cup unsalted butter
● ¼ cup olive oil
● 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, plus more to taste
● Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste
● Crusty bread, for dipping
Directions:
- 1. Begin by setting your oven to broil and adjusting the rack to the highest position. Preheating the broiler ensures the oysters cook quickly and develop a beautifully caramelized surface.
- 2. In a small saucepan over high heat, melt the unsalted butter along with the olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic, grated shallot, and Cajun seasoning, cooking until the garlic softens and becomes aromatic. At this point, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning as needed. Once perfectly seasoned, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley to infuse the butter with its vibrant, herby freshness.
- 3. If you have a baking dish with wells, divide the shucked oysters among them, placing one or two in each well. If using a flat baking dish, arrange the oysters evenly. Since the butter mixture may spill over, it’s a good idea to place the baking dish on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips. Generously spoon the butter and herb mixture over each oyster, ensuring every bite is infused with its rich flavor.
- 4. Transfer the oysters to the oven and broil, keeping a close eye on them. Ovens can have uneven heat distribution, so check every 30 seconds for any hot spots to prevent burning. After about two minutes, when the butter is bubbling and the edges of the oysters start to curl, it’s time to add the cheese.
- 5. Sprinkle the shaved smoked Gouda evenly over the oysters and return them to the broiler. Let them cook for another one to two minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Be careful not to overcook, as oysters can become rubbery if left under heat for too long.
- 6. Remove the oysters from the oven and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top to brighten the flavors. Let them cool slightly before serving. Pair with slices of crusty bread to mop up the delicious, buttery sauce.
This rich and flavorful dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that complement its buttery, garlicky profile. Here are a few excellent pairings:
● Crusty French Bread – The ultimate companion for soaking up the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
● Garlic Butter Linguine – A simple pasta dish tossed in olive oil and garlic provides a satisfying balance to the oysters.
● Fresh Arugula Salad – A light and peppery salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish.
Cheesy Herbed Broiled Oysters offer an incredible combination of rich, buttery goodness, savory seasonings, and smoky melted cheese. With just a few minutes under the broiler, you can create a restaurant-quality seafood dish that is sure to delight. Whether served as an appetizer or the star of your meal, these oysters are guaranteed to impress. Don’t forget to have plenty of crusty bread on hand to enjoy every last drop of the delicious sauce!
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