The holidays are a time for traditions, family gatherings, and delicious food. For many, the centerpiece of any holiday meal is the stuffing or dressing – and oyster dressing is a popular variation that adds a touch of sophistication to any turkey or roast. While some may think oysters are only for cocktails or appetizers, they add a briny flavor and satisfying texture to this classic side dish.
From Southern classics to Cajun twists and creamy indulgences, we’ve rounded up 18 savory oyster dressing recipes that are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re a fan of spicy kick, rich flavors, or simple simplicity, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So why not try something new and exciting this holiday season? Let the oyster dressing games begin!
Classic Southern Oyster Dressing with Herb Butter
This traditional Southern recipe combines the brininess of oysters with the richness of butter and herbs, making it a perfect accompaniment to your holiday turkey or roast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stale white bread, torn into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/2 cup freshly shucked oysters, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the celery, onion, and garlic in butter until tender.
3. Add oysters and cook until they start to brown.
4. Stir in bread, parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Herb Butter:
1. Mix softened butter with chopped parsley and a pinch of salt.
2. Serve alongside the oyster dressing.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun-Style Oyster Dressing with Andouille Sausage
This classic Southern dressing gets a bold boost from the spicy kick of andouille sausage and the brininess of fresh oysters. Perfect for accompanying your favorite Thanksgiving or Christmas feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Andouille sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup oyster liquid (from canning) or chicken broth
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups cornbread crumbs
– 2 tablespoons chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Andouille sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
3. Add butter, onion, and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in oyster liquid or chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, mix cornbread crumbs and cooked sausage mixture.
6. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cornbread Oyster Dressing with Bacon and Thyme
Cornbread Oyster Dressing with Bacon and Thyme: A savory twist on traditional dressing, this recipe combines the warmth of cornbread with the brininess of oysters, smoky bacon, and a hint of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 pound oysters, shucked and chopped
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the melted butter, chopped thyme, crumbled cornbread, oysters, and bacon to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Old-Fashioned Oyster Dressing with Celery and Onions
This traditional dressing recipe combines the brininess of oysters with the sweetness of onions and celery, perfect for accompanying your favorite roasted meats or as a stuffing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stale breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup oyster liquor (or 1 can of oysters, drained and flaked)
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and celery in butter until softened.
3. Add the breadcrumbs, oyster liquor (or flaked oysters), and poultry seasoning to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the dressing mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Oyster Dressing with Jalapeños and Cheddar
Add a kick to your holiday gathering with this creamy Spicy Oyster Dressing, infused with the bold flavors of jalapeños and cheddar.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) jar oysters, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups stale white bread, cubed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped jalapeños and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked oysters, bread cubes, and jalapeño mixture to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
5. Pour the dressing into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rich Oyster Dressing with Cream and Fresh Herbs
This decadent dressing elevates your holiday dishes with its creamy, herby goodness. Perfect for serving alongside roasted meats or as a dip for crudités.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly shucked oysters (about 6-8 oysters), drained and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to very low and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley, chives, and oysters. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon-Pepper Oyster Dressing with Toasted Breadcrumbs
A tangy and savory dressing that’s perfect for topping roasted vegetables, seafood, or as a dip for crudités. This recipe combines the brightness of lemon zest with the warmth of toasted breadcrumbs and the richness of oysters.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup oyster liquor (or chicken broth)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 cup toasted breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine oyster liquor, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat until reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in melted butter and toasted breadcrumbs.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gulf Coast Oyster Dressing with Crabmeat
This recipe combines the brininess of Gulf Coast oysters with the sweetness of crabmeat to create a savory dressing perfect for stuffing turkey or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked oysters, drained
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crabmeat, picked over
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium skillet, combine oysters, crabmeat, scallions, and melted butter. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is heated through, about 5 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. Add the dry ingredients to the oyster mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Transfer the dressing to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly browned and crispy on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Oyster Dressing with Chipotle and Chorizo
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this bold and savory dressing, infused with the deep flavors of oysters, chipotle peppers, and spicy chorizo.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cubed chorizo sausage
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup oyster liquor (or clam juice)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chorizo sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add parsley, scallions, oyster liquor, chicken broth, olive oil, chipotle peppers, and flour to the skillet. Whisk until smooth.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Oyster Dressing with Parsley and Sage
This rich and savory dressing is perfect for elevating your holiday turkey or roasted vegetables. With the subtle sweetness of caramelized onions and the earthy flavors of sage and parsley, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60g) caramelized onions
– 1/4 cup (30g) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons (15g) chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon (5g) chopped fresh sage
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in caramelized onions, heavy cream, parsley, sage, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and heated through.
6. Serve warm over roasted vegetables or turkey.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chestnut and Oyster Dressing with Rosemary
This recipe combines the rich flavors of chestnuts, oysters, and rosemary to create a unique and delicious stuffing for your holiday turkey or poultry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chestnuts, chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup sautéed oyster meat (about 6-8 oysters)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chestnuts, breadcrumbs, oyster meat, and melted butter.
3. Add chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper; mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or turkey cavity.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or cook inside turkey according to package instructions.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creole Oyster Dressing with Bell Peppers and Hot Sauce
This classic Creole dish gets a boost from the addition of bell peppers and hot sauce, adding depth and heat to your holiday turkey or stuffing. With its rich flavors and textures, this dressing is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups oysters, drained and chopped
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Creole seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion, bell peppers, and garlic until tender.
3. Add oysters, Creole seasoning, parsley, hot sauce, melted butter, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well.
4. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mushroom and Oyster Dressing with White Wine Sauce
This creamy dressing combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms and oysters with a rich white wine sauce, perfect for accompanying roasted meats or vegetables. With its savory and slightly sweet notes, it’s sure to elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Sprinkle flour over mushrooms; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually stir in heavy cream and white wine. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan-Crusted Oyster Dressing with Leeks
This savory dressing combines the richness of oysters, the sweetness of leeks, and the crunch of parmesan cheese to create a show-stopping side dish perfect for your next special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup (30g) panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
– 1/2 cup (120g) oyster dressing mix
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté leeks in butter until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the chicken broth and oyster dressing mix to the skillet with the leeks; stir to combine.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the Parmesan-panko mixture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buttermilk Biscuit Oyster Dressing with Chives
This creamy dressing combines the savory goodness of oysters, the tanginess of buttermilk, and the richness of buttery biscuits for a truly unforgettable side dish. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale buttermilk biscuit crumbs
– 1/4 cup freshly shucked oyster meat
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine biscuit crumbs, oyster meat, melted butter, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Add heavy cream and mix until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
4. Transfer the dressing to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly toasted.
5. Serve warm alongside your favorite holiday dishes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bourbon-Glazed Oyster Dressing with Pecans
Elevate your holiday table with this rich and indulgent dressing, featuring the savory flavors of oysters, pecans, and a hint of bourbon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound oysters, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup pecan halves
– 1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped oysters and cook until they’re lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in pecans, breadcrumbs, chicken broth, bourbon whiskey, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the dressing is lightly toasted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Seafood Medley Oyster Dressing with Shrimp and Scallops
Seafood Medley Oyster Dressing with Shrimp and Scallops Recipe
This recipe combines the rich flavors of oysters, shrimp, and scallops in a delicious dressing perfect for accompanying your favorite seafood dishes. With its creamy texture and savory taste, this medley is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup oyster shells
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan, combine oyster shells and water. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and scallops to the skillet; cook until pink and firm, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked seafood mixture with oyster broth; simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Corn and Oyster Dressing with Tarragon
This unique dressing combines the sweetness of corn with the brininess of oysters, finished with a hint of anise-like tarragon. Perfect as a side dish or used to stuff poultry or pork.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sweet corn kernels
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh tarragon
– 1/4 cup oyster liquor (or bottled clam juice)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the corn kernels in melted butter until lightly browned.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, tarragon, oyster liquor, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the cooked corn mixture; stir until combined.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your holiday meals with these 18 savory oyster dressing recipes! From classic Southern comfort food to spicy Cajun twists, there’s something for everyone. Try adding andouille sausage to give it a smoky kick or use chipotle peppers for an extra boost of flavor. You can also add some seafood flair with shrimp or scallops. With ingredients like bacon, chorizo, leeks, and fresh herbs, these recipes are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re looking for a traditional or adventurous take on oyster dressing, there’s something in this collection that’s sure to delight.