The Best Homemade Oyster Stew Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This oyster stew is creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor—perfect for chilly nights or special occasions. It’s quick to make but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
- Rich and creamy broth that’s velvety smooth, with just the right balance of briny oyster flavor.
- Simple ingredients you probably already have, making it an easy yet impressive dish.
- Ready in under 30 minutes, so you can enjoy a cozy meal without the fuss.
Recipe
Oyster stew is a classic, comforting dish that highlights the delicate flavor of fresh oysters. This simple recipe creates a creamy, rich stew perfect for chilly evenings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 1 pint fresh oysters with their liquor
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Drain the oysters, reserving the liquor. Check for any shell fragments and discard them.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add the oysters and their liquor, cooking gently for about 3 minutes until the edges curl.
- Stir in the milk, cream, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Heat until just simmering—do not boil.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes:
- Use fresh oysters for the best flavor. If unavailable, high-quality canned oysters in liquor can be substituted.
- Avoid boiling the stew, as it may cause the oysters to toughen and the dairy to separate.
Equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Time:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4 servings
Nutrition
This oyster stew is rich in protein and essential nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Cholesterol | 120 mg |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
| Iron | 10% DV |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my oyster stew with simple side dishes, like a crisp green salad or roasted veggies, to keep things light and balanced. A warm, crusty loaf of bread is also a must—it’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that creamy broth. Let’s talk about the best options to make your meal even more satisfying.
Side Dish Pairings
Since oyster stew’s rich, creamy flavor shines on its own, you’ll want sides that complement without overpowering it. I love balancing it with light vegetable options—think steamed green beans or roasted asparagus—as they add freshness without competing. Salad choices like a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a mix of spinach and cucumber are perfect, offering a crisp contrast to the stew’s warmth. My go-to is a tangy kale and carrot slaw; it’s colorful and adds a bit of crunch. Just remember, keep it simple—your sides should enhance, not steal the spotlight from that comforting bowl of stew.
Bread Options
While cozy sides balance out oyster stew’s creamy richness, bread is where I let myself get a little indulgent. Nothing beats tearing into a warm, crusty baguette and dunking it right into the stew—it’s a match made in comfort food heaven. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll toast slices until golden, which adds a satisfying crunch. Sourdough rolls are another favorite of mine; their tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the savory broth. Whether it’s a fresh loaf from the bakery or homemade, bread turns this meal into something truly special. Trust me, you won’t want to skip it!
