Sue Cox'S Holiday Oyster Casserole
A rich, savory oyster casserole featuring tender Pacific oysters layered with crackers and topped with butter, baked to perfection. Ideal for seafood lovers and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain oysters and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Layer oysters and crushed soda crackers alternately in the dish.
- Sprinkle salt to taste between layers.
- Finish with a top layer of crackers.
- Dot the top with small pieces of butter.
- Pour milk over the casserole until it is soggy.
- Cover and bake in a 350°F oven for 1 to 1½ hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream or sour cream to the milk before pouring it over the casserole. If soda crackers aren't available, crushed saltines or even breadcrumbs can serve as a substitute. Be sure to adjust the amount of salt based on the saltiness of your crackers and oysters. This dish can be a fantastic addition to your holiday spread alongside other seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is best served warm and can be paired with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. It also makes a great main dish for holiday gatherings and pairs beautifully with Northwest Coast Salmon Cakes for a seafood-themed menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but the oven method will help maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sue Cox'S Holiday Oyster Casserole contains roughly 347 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 38g fat.
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 canned oysters for this recipe?
While fresh oysters provide the best flavor and texture, canned oysters can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well and adjust the seasoning as canned oysters may be saltier than fresh. The casserole will still turn out delicious, but the freshness of the oysters will be missed.
What can I serve with the oyster casserole?
This oyster casserole pairs well with light side dishes such as a crisp Caesar salad or steamed asparagus. For a more complete meal, consider adding a starch like rice pilaf or garlic mashed potatoes. A glass of chilled white wine can also complement the dish beautifully.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it is bubbly and the top layer of crackers is golden brown. You can also insert a knife into the center; if it comes out hot, the dish is ready. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent burning while it finishes cooking.
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).