Oysters Mornay (Baked Oysters With Cheese)
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
6 mins
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Total Time
26 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
270 kcal
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Course
Main Course, Appetizer
Oysters Mornay (Baked Oysters With Cheese)
Description
Oysters Mornay (Baked Oysters With Cheese) highlights fresh oysters topped with a smooth Mornay sauce made by creating a roux of butter and flour, then adding chicken broth and half and half. The sauce is enriched with tempered egg yolk and brightened with lemon juice before incorporating Swiss and cheddar cheeses. The mixture is spooned over the oysters arranged on the half shell and baked under a broiler or in a hot oven. This process melts the cheese and creates a bubbly golden crust that contrasts with the tender oyster beneath. The combination of creamy sauce, melted cheese, and the oyster's natural brininess makes this dish flavorful and satisfying.
The texture balances the creamy, slightly tangy cheese sauce and tender cooked oysters. The addition of paprika can add a subtle smoky note, and black pepper seasons the sauce. The oysters can be served immediately after baking to retain their warm, creamy qualities and are well complemented by crusty bread to soak up the sauce and lemon wedges to add fresh acidity.
Serving oysters with lemon wedges or a splash of hot sauce can enhance the flavors and provide contrast. The recipe is suitable as an appetizer or a light main course when paired with bread or salad. Care should be taken not to overcook the oysters to preserve their delicate texture.
It is best to prepare and bake oysters right before serving to ensure the topping stays creamy and the oysters keep their tenderness. Using high-quality, fresh oysters will yield the best results. Avoid over-seasoning since oysters have a naturally distinct flavor that pairs well with the subtle richness of the Mornay sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 oyster 12 large oysters or 24 small oysters, on the half shell or shucked
- 3 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 c chicken broth
- 1 c half and half 10% - 18% milk fat
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ c swiss cheese shredded
- ¼ c cheddar cheese shredded
- paprika optional, lemon wedges
- black pepper
- lemon
Instructions
Mornay Sauce
- Set a heavy bottomed, medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add butter and flour and cook, stirring until roux is well blended and bubbling.
- Remove from heat and add stock all at once, whisking quickly to incorporate well and prevent lumps. Return to heat, stirring frequently until thickened.
- In a small bowl, whisk egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of the cream and set aside. Add the remaining cream to the sauce in the pot and stir until heated through. Reduce heat to low.
- Slowly add a ladle of hot cream sauce to the egg yolk, whisking constantly. This will temper the egg yolk so it mixes in without getting lumpy. Once it's been incorporated, pour the yolk mixture into the hot sauce and mix well.
- Add lemon juice, whisk and then add both kinds of cheese. Stir once, then let melt, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper if desired. Mornay sauce is finished.
Baked Oysters Mornay
- Pre heat broiler or oven to 500'F. Prepare oysters. If large, cut into bite-size pieces and return to half-shell or place in ramekins. One large or 2 small oysters per ramekin or one oyster per shell. Place all shells or ramekins on a baking sheet.
- Top oysters with Mornay sauce to cover. Sprinkle lightly with paprika if desired and place sheet of oysters in the oven under the broiler. Broil 4-6 minutes, until turning golden brown and bubbly. Turn broiler off and let oysters cook 1-2 more minutes before removing from oven.
Notes
- Serve the baked oysters warm with crusty bread to enjoy the creamy sauce fully.
- Include lemon wedges or hot sauce for added brightness and a flavor contrast.
- Do not overcook oysters to maintain their tender texture and delicate taste.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 270 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 270kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 6g | 2% |
| Protein | 9g | 18% |
| Fat | 23g | 35% |
| Saturated Fat | 14g | 70% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Trans Fat | 0.3g | 15% |
| Cholesterol | 115mg | 38% |
| Sodium | 399mg | 17% |
| Potassium | 125mg | 3% |
| Fiber | 0.1g | 0% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 727IU | 15% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 249mg | 25% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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