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Plate of freshly baked Oysters Rockefeller topped with golden breadcrumbs, herbs, and spinach, served with lemon wedges on a bed of sea salt.
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5 from 1 vote

Oysters Rockefeller

Oysters Rockefeller is a luxurious and flavorful appetizer featuring fresh oysters topped with a rich blend of butter, herbs, breadcrumbs, and spinach, then baked to perfection. This classic dish, known for its savory and creamy topping, is perfect for special occasions or an elegant dinner party.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 320kcal

Ingredients

  • 12 fresh oysters
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 shallot (finely chopped)
  • 1 clove garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp Pernod (or white wine)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  • Preparing the Oysters
    Shuck the Oysters: Use an oyster knife and a kitchen towel to safely pry open the oysters. Remove the top shell and loosen the oyster meat from the bottom shell, leaving it in place.
    Clean the Shells: Rinse the bottom shells under cold water to remove any grit or debris. Arrange them on a baking dish lined with rock salt or crumpled foil to keep them steady.
  • Making the Rockefeller Topping
    Sauté the Aromatics: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped shallots, cooking until fragrant.
    Add the Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Reduce the heat and mix in the Pernod, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
    Season and Finish: Stir in the chopped parsley, and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  • Assembling and Baking
    Top the Oysters: Spoon a generous amount of the Rockefeller topping onto each oyster, spreading it evenly.
    Bake: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Bake the oysters for 10–12 minutes, or until the topping is golden and bubbling.
    Serve: Transfer the oysters to a serving platter and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve immediately.