Grilled Parmesan Garlic Oysters

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Craving something rich, savory, and utterly impressive? These Grilled Parmesan Garlic Oysters are your ticket to a restaurant-quality dish right from your own kitchen. With a blend of creamy Parmesan, roasted garlic, and the briny freshness of oysters, this dish transforms a seafood classic into a cheesy, garlicky showstopper that’s perfect for date nights, dinner parties, or a fancy treat just for you.

They’re broiled to golden perfection and topped with a sprinkle of parsley for that fresh, herby finish. Whether you’re an oyster aficionado or just dipping your toes into seafood, this recipe makes it simple, quick, and absolutely irresistible.

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Why You’ll Love This Grilled Parmesan Garlic Oysters Recipe

This dish combines the best of land and sea. You get that creamy, rich, umami hit from the Parmesan and butter, perfectly balanced by the fresh, briny oyster underneath. The garlic infuses every bite with deep flavor, while a quick grill caramelizes the top into a bubbly, golden crust.

What makes it even better? It’s surprisingly quick and easy. You don’t need to be a pro chef to pull this off—just a few good ingredients and a hot grill.

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What Kind of Oysters Should I Use?

For grilling, go for large, deep-cupped oysters like Blue Point, Gulf, or Pacific oysters. These varieties hold the topping well and stay juicy without overcooking. Look for oysters that are tightly closed and smell like the ocean—fresh, clean, and briny. If you’re new to shucking, ask your fishmonger to pre-shuck them for you or use a safe oyster knife at home.

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Ingredients for the Grilled Parmesan Garlic Oysters

To make these Grilled Parmesan Garlic Oysters extra flavorful, each ingredient plays a key role in building that savory, cheesy, garlicky goodness. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Fresh oysters on the half shell – These are the stars of the show. Choose fresh, plump oysters with a briny aroma.
• Unsalted butter – Adds rich flavor and creates the creamy base for the garlic sauce.
• Fresh garlic (minced) – Infuses each bite with deep, aromatic flavor.
• Parmesan cheese (grated) – Melts into a savory topping that crisps up beautifully under the grill.
• Mayonnaise – Helps create a creamy texture and holds everything together.
• Lemon juice – A splash of brightness to cut through the richness.
• Parsley (chopped) – Adds color and a fresh, herbal finish.
• Salt and black pepper – Balances and enhances all the other flavors.

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How To Make the Grilled Parmesan Garlic Oysters

This step-by-step method ensures your oysters come out perfectly golden and packed with flavor. You don’t need much time, just a few minutes under a hot grill!

Step 1: Preheat Your Grill

Get your grill or broiler nice and hot—about 450°F. This ensures that the cheese melts and browns quickly without overcooking the oysters.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, mayo, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Then fold in the grated Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Top the Oysters

Place your oysters on a baking tray or grill-safe rack. Spoon a generous amount of the cheese and garlic mixture onto each oyster. Be sure to cover the meat but don’t overflow the shell.

Step 4: Grill Until Golden

Slide the oysters under the grill for 5–7 minutes or until the tops are bubbling and golden. Keep a close eye on them—they cook fast!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the grill, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately while hot and melty.

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Serving and Storing Grilled Parmesan Garlic Oysters

This recipe serves 4 people comfortably as an appetizer or small plate. Each oyster is a rich, savory bite, so a little goes a long way—but don’t be surprised if your guests go back for seconds (or thirds).

If you have leftovers (rare, but it happens), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently under the broiler or in a hot oven just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can turn the oysters rubbery.

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What to Serve With Grilled Parmesan Garlic Oysters?

These oysters pair beautifully with a range of sides and drinks. Here are some serving ideas to complete your spread:

1. Crusty French Bread

The garlic butter and cheesy topping beg to be mopped up with warm, crusty bread.

2. Chilled White Wine or Sparkling Wine

Dry whites like Sauvignon Blanc or bubbly Champagne cut through the richness perfectly.

3. Light Garden Salad

A crisp salad with a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance.

4. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Charred corn adds a smoky sweetness that complements the oysters well.

5. Garlic Butter Pasta

Keep the garlic theme going with a light pasta side dish.

6. Lemon Wedges

Let guests squeeze fresh lemon over their oysters for extra zing.

7. Roasted Asparagus

Tender, roasted asparagus spears offer a lovely green bite with some charred flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-shucked oysters for this recipe?
Yes! Pre-shucked oysters make the process easier, especially if you’re short on time or not confident with shucking. Just be sure to keep them cold and use them within a day.

2. Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Absolutely. Use your oven’s broiler setting for similar results. Place the oysters on a baking sheet and broil them for 5-7 minutes until golden and bubbly.

3. What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are excellent substitutes. They both have a similar salty, nutty flavor that works beautifully with oysters.

4. Can I prepare the topping in advance?
Yes, the garlic-Parmesan mixture can be made up to 2 days ahead. Keep it chilled in the fridge and spoon it on right before grilling.

5. Are these oysters good for a party?
They’re perfect! You can prep them ahead, then quickly grill right before serving. Serve them hot on a platter for an elegant appetizer.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood or appetizer board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you sprinkle extra herbs? Try it with hot sauce or bacon? I love hearing how you customize it to your taste!

Explore beautifully curated seafood and appetizer dishes on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for every occasion.

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Conclusion

Grilled Parmesan Garlic Oysters are a delicious way to impress your guests (or just treat yourself). They’re quick to make, packed with bold flavors, and fancy enough for any celebration. Whether you’re making a seafood platter or a small appetizer spread, these oysters are a guaranteed hit.

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