Escalloped Oysters
Escalloped oysters offer a rich, creamy seafood dish with tender oysters layered with crunchy saltine crackers and buttery notes. Baked to perfection, this comforting casserole is ideal for seafood lovers and makes an elegant appetizer or main course for special occasions or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Check oysters for shell pieces.
- Layer crushed saltine crackers, oysters, and butter in the casserole, making about 2 or 3 layers.
- Pour any oyster juice over the top.
- Scald the milk.
- Pour the hot milk over the layered ingredients.
- Bake in a hot oven at 400°F for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean, like a custard pie.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning to the layers. For a gluten-free option, substitute the saltine crackers with crushed gluten-free crackers or cornmeal. If fresh oysters are unavailable, canned oysters can work in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well before use.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the escalloped oysters hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables, making it a perfect addition to your dinner table. For a seafood-themed meal, consider serving it alongside Shrimp Scampi(Microwave) or American recipes that highlight fresh seafood.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the escalloped oysters in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dish rubbery and dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Escalloped Oysters contains roughly 1904 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 202g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 712mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen oysters for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen oysters, but make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to remove excess moisture. This will help maintain the dish's texture and prevent it from becoming watery.
How can I tell when the dish is done baking?
The escalloped oysters are done when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, resembling a custard pie. The top should be lightly browned and the edges bubbling, indicating that the layers are properly cooked.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the layers in the casserole dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just pour the hot milk over the top right before baking. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).