Description

This easy Oysters Rockefeller recipe combines smoky bacon, fresh spinach, and briny oysters for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for parties or special occasions. With a crunchy panko topping and a hint of lemon, it’s a classic dish with a modern twist.

Ingredients

Scale

12 fresh oysters in the shell (medium to large, scrubbed clean)
4 slices bacon (smoked or classic, crispy)
1 packed cup fresh spinach (about 1 oz, baby spinach, roughly chopped)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
1 lemon, zested and cut into wedges
Salt & pepper, to taste
Hot sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with coarse salt or crumpled foil to keep oysters upright.
Shuck the oysters, keeping the oyster liquor inside. Set oysters on the prepared baking sheet.
In a small skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy (about 5-6 minutes). Drain on paper towels and chop. Reserve 1 tablespoon bacon fat.
In the same skillet, melt butter and reserved bacon fat over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add spinach and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
In a bowl, combine sautéed spinach, half the chopped bacon, Parmesan, and lemon zest. Mix well and adjust seasoning.
Spoon spinach mixture over each oyster. Sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs and remaining bacon bits.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until breadcrumbs are golden and oysters are just cooked through. Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra browning if desired.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges and hot sauce.

Notes

For gluten-free, use GF panko or crushed pork rinds. Prep the filling and shuck oysters ahead for easy entertaining. Watch baking time closely to avoid overcooking. Substitute turkey bacon or omit for pescatarian version. Use a towel for safe shucking. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze dry before use.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 oysters
Calories: 120
Sugar: 1
Sodium: 320
Fat: 7
Saturated Fat: 3
Carbohydrates: 5
Fiber: 1
Protein: 8

Keywords: Oysters Rockefeller, bacon, spinach, appetizer, seafood, party food, New Orleans, easy recipe, panko, Parmesan, baked oysters