Classic Thanksgiving Baked Oysters

FreshAIG Quick Facts

• Species: Eastern Oyster (Crassostrea virginica)
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Diet Types: Pescatarian

Preparation Method: Baked

Servings: 10

Baking is a simple and efficient method for preparing large amounts of seafood, as long as you pay attention to cook time and temperature. This comforting dish brings together the wholesome flavors of baked oysters, rich butter, and warm toast, that goes perfectly with Thanksgiving turkey.

Ingredients

• 1 quart fresh oysters, drained (reserve liquid)
• 6 cups toasted bread, cubed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat an oven to 400°F.
2. Lightly butter a large baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the melted butter, tossing until evenly coated.
4. Place half of the buttered toast mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Layer the fresh oysters evenly over the toast. Sprinkle with celery salt, salt, and pepper.
6. Mix the milk with a few tablespoons of the reserved oyster liquid and drizzle evenly over the oyster layer.
7. Top with the remaining buttered toast cubes.
8. Place the dish in the oven after it reaches 400°F and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oysters are bubbly and cooked through.
9. Remove it from the oven and let it rest a couple of minutes before serving.

For the freshest holiday oysters, get them from local seafood merchants. Shop local for the most value, while supporting family businesses like fishermen, seafood farmers, and neighborhood fish markets from your own community. Let's be thankful for fresh seafood and give back to our local economy this season. Happy holidays and hope you enjoy fresh seafood with the ones you care about most - from your local fishmonger and FreshAIG!