Grilled Parmesan Garlic Oysters

Introduction

If you’re looking for a luxurious yet easy-to-make appetizer, these Grilled Parmesan Garlic Oysters are the perfect choice. The rich, garlicky butter, bright lemon juice, and savory Parmesan cheese come together to create a delectable topping for freshly grilled oysters. Perfect for any special gathering or just a treat-yourself moment, these oysters are grilled to perfection and served hot, ready to impress even the pickiest of seafood lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These grilled oysters are packed with bold flavors, from the creamy garlic butter to the tangy lemon and the nutty Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese. The addition of cayenne pepper adds a hint of spice that balances beautifully with the briny oysters. And since they’re cooked directly on the grill, these oysters gain a hint of smokiness that takes them to a new level. Plus, they’re ready in minutes, making them an impressive yet easy appetizer.

Ingredients

  • 1 stick of butter, softened or melted
  • 2 cloves of garlic, grated
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1/2 a lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 12 fresh oysters on the half shell
  • Additional 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a bowl, combine the softened or melted butter, grated garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 cup of grated cheese, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley. Stir until the mixture is well combined, and set it aside. This buttery, garlicky mixture is the key to the rich flavor of these oysters.

2. Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to a medium temperature of about 350°F (180°C). Make sure the grill is clean and ready to go before placing the oysters on it.

3. Grill the Oysters

Arrange the oysters on the half shell directly on the preheated grill. Let them cook until the juices in the oysters begin to bubble—this usually takes a few minutes, depending on the size of the oysters. The bubbling indicates that the oysters are cooking and are ready for the garlic butter.

4. Add the Garlic Butter Mixture

Once the oysters are bubbling, spoon about 1 tablespoon of the prepared garlic butter mixture over each oyster. This will melt into the oyster, infusing it with a rich, garlicky flavor.

5. Top with Additional Cheese

Sprinkle each oyster generously with the remaining grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt and add a deliciously creamy, salty layer on top of the oysters.

6. Grill until Golden

Continue grilling the oysters until the cheese melts and turns a light golden brown. This should take just a few minutes.

7. Garnish & Serve

Carefully remove the oysters from the grill and transfer them to a serving plate. Garnish each oyster with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately with extra garlic butter, lemon wedges, hot sauce, and crusty bread for dipping.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Grill
  • Small bowl for mixing garlic butter
  • Tongs or spatula for handling oysters
  • Spoon for adding butter mixture
  • Serving plate

Tips for Perfect Grilled Oysters

  • Freshness Matters: Use the freshest oysters possible for the best flavor.
  • Even Heat: Make sure the grill is preheated and maintains a steady temperature so the oysters cook evenly.
  • Watch the Cheese: Keep a close eye on the oysters once the cheese is added to prevent it from burning. The goal is a light golden brown color for optimal flavor.

Recipe Swaps and Variations

  • Alternative Cheese: If Pecorino Romano or Parmesan isn’t available, try using Gruyère or Asiago for a different cheesy flavor.
  • Herb Variations: Substitute parsley with fresh basil or chives for a different aromatic finish.
  • Spice It Up: For extra heat, add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle more cayenne pepper on top of the oysters before serving.

How to Serve and Enjoy

These oysters are best enjoyed fresh off the grill while they’re hot and bubbly. Serve them as an appetizer alongside crusty bread, lemon wedges, and hot sauce for an added kick. They also pair beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling wine to enhance the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make these oysters in the oven instead of on the grill?
A: Yes! You can place the oysters on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for similar results. Keep a close eye to prevent the cheese from burning.

Q: How do I shuck oysters safely?
A: Place the oyster on a towel to keep it steady, and use a shucking knife to gently pry open the shell. Twist the knife and lift the top shell off.

Q: Can I use store-bought garlic butter?
A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought garlic butter works well for this recipe. Just mix in the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and cheese for an extra flavor boost.

Call to Action

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Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.

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Grilled Parmesan Garlic Oysters


  • Author: Mia Martinez

Ingredients

1 stick of butter, softened or melted
2 cloves of garlic, grated
2 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1/2 a lemon)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese
Salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
12 fresh oysters on the half shell
Additional 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped


Instructions

Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture: In a bowl, mix together the butter, grated garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 cup of grated cheese, salt, pepper, cayenne, and chopped parsley until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to 350°F (180°C).
Grill the Oysters: Arrange the oysters on the half shell directly on the preheated grill. Let them cook until the juices in the oysters start to bubble.
Add the Butter Mixture: Once bubbling, spoon about 1 tablespoon of the garlic butter mixture over each oyster.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle each oyster with the remaining grated cheese.
Grill until Golden: Continue grilling until the cheese is melted and turns a light golden brown.
Garnish & Serve: Remove the oysters from the grill and garnish with additional chopped parsley. Serve immediately with extra garlic butter, lemon wedges, hot sauce, and crusty bread for dipping.
Enjoy these Grilled Parmesan Garlic Oysters as a delicious appetizer or a special treat!

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 servings

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