Get ready to indulge in a culinary delight with these 18 creamy oyster stew recipes, straight from the kitchen of celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse. Oysters are a staple in Louisiana cuisine, and when combined with rich and creamy ingredients, they create a dish that’s both decadent and delicious. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the Bayou State, highlighting Emeril’s favorite oyster stew recipes that showcase the perfect blend of spicy, savory, and smoky flavors.
From classic New Orleans-style stews to bold and innovative creations, these recipes will guide you in crafting the ultimate comfort food dish. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking for a new culinary challenge, these creamy oyster stews are sure to impress your family and friends. So let’s dive in and explore the rich flavors of Louisiana with Emeril Lagasse’s top-secret oyster stew recipes!
Classic New Orleans Oyster Stew
Classic New Orleans Oyster Stew: A rich and flavorful stew that combines succulent oysters with aromatics and spices, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh oysters, shucked and chopped
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 sprigs fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Add oysters, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 10-15 minutes or until oysters are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Emeril’s Rich and Creamy Oyster Stew
This decadent oyster stew is a perfect winter warmer that combines the brininess of fresh oysters with the richness of cream and butter. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 dozen freshly shucked oysters, liquor reserved
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups fish stock (or chicken stock)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add reserved oyster liquor, heavy cream, flour, and fish stock. Whisk to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in the shucked oysters and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Oyster Stew
This hearty stew combines succulent oysters with spicy Cajun flavors and a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds oysters, shucked and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups fish stock or chicken broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add oysters, diced tomatoes, fish stock or chicken broth, and parsley. Stir to combine.
4. Bring stew to a simmer; reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until oysters are cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Garlic Butter Oyster Stew
Experience the rich flavors of the sea with this decadent Garlic Butter Oyster Stew recipe, perfect for a cozy night in. Freshly shucked oysters are simmered in a creamy garlic butter broth, accompanied by tender potatoes and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 2 dozen freshly shucked oysters
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 minute.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add potatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Add oysters and cook until they’re fully cooked and the broth has thickened slightly, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Bacon Oyster Stew
This rich and savory stew is a perfect blend of smoky bacon, tender oysters, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pint oysters, shucked and drained
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the cooked bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Add the butter to the pot and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shucked oysters, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer the stew over low heat for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the oysters are cooked through.
6. Return the cooked bacon to the pot and stir to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Cream Oyster Stew
This recipe combines the brininess of oysters with the richness of cream and the brightness of fresh herbs, creating a decadent yet refined dish perfect for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oysters, shucked and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low.
6. Add oysters and herbs; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer stew for 5-7 minutes or until oysters are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sherry-Infused Oyster Stew
This rich and flavorful stew combines succulent oysters with the warmth of sherry, perfect for a cold winter’s night. With its simplicity and depth of flavor, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh oysters, shucked and drained
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup dry sherry
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add oysters, sherry, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leek and Potato Oyster Stew
This hearty stew combines the sweetness of fresh oysters with the earthy flavors of leeks and potatoes, perfect for a chilly evening. With its rich broth and tender ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mussels or clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups fish stock (or water)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add leeks and cook until they start to caramelize, about 10 minutes.
3. Add potatoes, fish stock (or water), and mussels or clams. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creole-Style Oyster Stew
Savor the rich flavors of Louisiana’s coastal regions with this hearty Creole-Style Oyster Stew, a beloved tradition passed down through generations.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb oysters, shucked and chopped
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add paprika and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
7. Add chopped oysters and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Old Bay Seasoned Oyster Stew
Rich and flavorful, this Old Bay seasoned oyster stew is a delightful twist on the classic seafood dish. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a unique appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of freshly shucked oysters
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add shucked oysters, chicken broth, heavy cream, and Old Bay seasoning. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Roasted Corn and Oyster Stew
Roasted Corn and Oyster Stew: A Hearty and Flavorful Delight
This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted corn with the brininess of oysters, creating a rich and satisfying stew perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed corn (fresh or frozen)
– 1 pint oysters
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss corn with 1 tablespoon butter and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until lightly caramelized.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in remaining butter until softened.
4. Add oysters, white wine (if using), and chicken broth. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until oysters are cooked through.
5. Stir in roasted corn and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Emeril’s Kickin’ Oyster Stew
Get ready to spice up your oyster stew game with this bold and flavorful recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 quart oysters, shucked and drained
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish stock
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add oysters, diced tomatoes, fish stock, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until oysters are cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
White Wine and Thyme Oyster Stew
Elevate your seafood game with this creamy and flavorful stew that combines the richness of oysters with the brightness of white wine and thyme. Perfect for a cozy dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds oysters, shucked
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add oysters, white wine, heavy cream, and thyme sprigs. Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer; cook for 5-7 minutes or until oysters are cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Milk Oyster Stew
This rich and comforting stew combines the brininess of oysters with the creaminess of coconut milk, perfect for a cold winter’s day. With its velvety texture and subtle coconut flavor, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint oysters, shucked
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup fish stock (or water)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add oysters, coconut milk, fish stock (or water), salt, and pepper.
4. Stir gently to combine, then bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 10-12 minutes or until oysters are cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Southern-Style Oyster Stew
This hearty stew is a classic Southern comfort food that combines the brininess of oysters with the warmth of traditional spices and creamy goodness. It’s a perfect dish for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups oysters, shucked and rinsed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced celery
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup half-and-half
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and celery; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add oysters, rice, chicken broth, half-and-half, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Paprika Oyster Stew
A rich and savory stew that combines the brininess of oysters with the warm, smoky flavor of paprika. Perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb oysters, shucked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the oysters, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, white wine (if using), and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the stew to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the oysters are fully cooked.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Onion Oyster Stew
A rich and flavorful stew that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the brininess of oysters, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup chicken or fish broth
– 12-15 oysters, shucked and patted dry
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 20 minutes).
2. If using wine, add it to the pan and stir to deglaze.
3. Add broth and thyme to the pan, then bring to a simmer.
4. Gently place oysters into the stew, making sure they’re fully submerged in liquid.
5. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until oysters are cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Emeril’s Famous Holiday Oyster Stew
Get ready to shell-ebrate the holidays with this decadent and flavorful oyster stew that’s sure to become a new family tradition!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh oysters, shucked and rinsed
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture; whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream and white wine, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add oysters, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 8-10 minutes or until oysters are cooked through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of the South with Emeril Lagasse’s creamy oyster stew recipes! From classic New Orleans-style stews to spicy Cajun and smoky bacon variations, there’s something for every palate. Try pairing garlic butter with herbed cream or add some smokiness with roasted corn and bacon. For a taste of the Mediterranean, infuse your stew with sherry and thyme, or go old-school with Emeril’s famous holiday recipe. Whatever your preference, these 18 recipes will transport you to the Gulf Coast in a bowl.
