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Oysters Rockefeller

Yields6 ServingsPrep Time15 minsCook Time10 minsTotal Time25 mins

Oysters Rockefeller is a classic, elegant seafood dish featuring fresh oysters baked in their shells with a rich, buttery herb and spinach topping. Finished with a light broil for a golden crust, this dish is luxurious yet surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a special appetizer or holiday celebration.

Oysters Rockefeller

For the Oysters
 12 fresh oysters, shucked, shells reserved
 Rock salt or coarse sea salt (for serving)
 Lemon wedges (for garnish)
For the Rockefeller Topping
 2 tbsp unsalted butter
 2 cloves garlic, minced
 2 shallots, finely chopped
 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
 ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
 ¼ cup Pernod or white wine (optional)
 ½ tsp salt
 ¼ tsp black pepper
 ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
 ½ cup heavy cream
 ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
 ¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko or fresh)
 1 tsp lemon zest
 1 tbsp olive oil (for crisping breadcrumbs)
Prepare the Oysters
1

 

  1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
  2. Shuck the oysters:
    • Carefully open the oysters, keeping the shells intact.
    • Loosen the oyster meat from the shell but leave it inside.
  3. Arrange the oyster shells:
    • On a baking sheet lined with rock salt, place the shucked oyster shells so they sit evenly.
Make the Rockefeller Topping
2

 

  1. Sauté the aromatics:
    • In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic and shallots for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add the spinach and parsley:
    • Stir in chopped spinach and parsley, cooking until wilted (2-3 minutes).
  3. Deglaze the pan:
    • Add Pernod or white wine (if using) and let it cook for 1 minute.
  4. Season the mixture:
    • Add salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
  5. Finish with cream and cheese:
    • Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, then remove from heat.
Make the Breadcrumb Topping
3

 

  1. In a small pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Toast the breadcrumbs:
    • Stir in breadcrumbs and lemon zest, toasting until golden and crisp.
Assemble and Bake
4

 

  1. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of Rockefeller topping over each oyster.
  2. Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top.
  3. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until bubbling and lightly golden.
  4. Broil for 1-2 minutes to crisp the top.
Serve and Enjoy
5

 

  1. Arrange on a serving platter over a bed of rock salt.
  2. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, savory flavors!
Pro Tips
6

 

  • For an Extra Crispy Topping: Add a sprinkle of additional Parmesan before broiling.
  • For More Flavor: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the topping.
  • For a Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.

Nutrition Facts

6 servings

Serving size