Mary Clara'S Oyster Casserole
A savory casserole combining tender oysters, creamy milk, and buttery bread, baked to perfection. Ideal for seafood lovers and elegant yet simple family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Open the canned oysters and pour oysters and juice into a casserole dish.
- Wash hands and mash oysters with hands.
- Add bread to the oysters and mix; mash together with oysters.
- Pour milk over the mixture, but do not stir.
- Place pats of butter or margarine on top.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper on top as desired.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for about 45 minutes.
- The casserole will look juicy when taken out but will set like a custard pie.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh oysters if available. If you're short on time, pre-sliced bread can be used, or even a crusty baguette. To enhance the dish, try adding a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to the oysters before baking. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of Creamy Stuffed Celery for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven. Pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A glass of white wine, such as a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, complements the seafood flavors beautifully. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Golden Fried Fish to enhance the seafood experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the casserole back in the oven at 350°F until heated through, which helps maintain its custard-like texture. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the dish rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Clara'S Oyster Casserole contains roughly 1588 calories, with 10g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 119g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value), calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1046mg per serving (45% 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
How do I know when the casserole is finished baking?
The casserole is done when it is set and slightly golden on top, usually after about 45 minutes at 375°F. It should be juicy when taken out but will firm up as it cools. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean to ensure it's fully cooked.
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).