Grilled Oysters Au Gratin on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Oysters au gratin is a delicious, rich dish that combines fresh oysters with a creamy, cheesy topping, all finished with a golden, bubbly crust. Cooking them on the Arteflame grill adds a subtle smoky flavor, making them even more irresistible. This recipe is perfect for a special appetizer or an indulgent treat.

Ingredients

• 24 fresh oysters, shucked on the half shell
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Coarse sea salt or crushed ice, for stabilizing the oysters on the grill

Instructions

1. Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

Start by lighting your Arteflame grill and allowing it to heat up. You'll be cooking the oysters on the flat cooktop, which will give them a wonderful smoky flavor.

2. Prepare the Gratin Mixture

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat on the grill’s cooktop. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the Parmesan and Gruyère cheeses, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the black pepper, smoked paprika, chopped parsley, and chives.

3. Assemble the Oysters

Arrange the shucked oysters on a metal tray or directly on the grill's flat cooktop. Use coarse sea salt or crushed ice to stabilize them and keep them from tipping over.

Spoon a generous amount of the cheese mixture over each oyster, covering the oyster meat completely. Sprinkle a pinch of breadcrumbs over the top of each oyster for added texture.

4. Grill the Oysters

Place the oysters on the hot cooktop of the Arteflame grill. Grill for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. The oysters should be cooked through, and the gratin topping should be lightly browned and crispy.

5. Serve

Carefully remove the oysters from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve hot as a delicious appetizer.

Tips for the Best Oysters Au Gratin

• Stabilize the Oysters: Use coarse sea salt or crushed ice to keep the oysters stable on the grill and prevent tipping.
• Cheese Selection: For a richer flavor, you can use a blend of different cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, and Parmesan.
• Even Cooking: Keep an eye on the oysters while grilling to avoid overcooking, which can make the oysters tough.

Variations

1. Bacon Oysters Au Gratin: Add crispy bacon bits to the cheese mixture for a smoky, savory twist.
2. Spicy Oysters Au Gratin: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
3. Herb Oysters Au Gratin: Mix in fresh herbs like tarragon or thyme for an herbal flavor.
4. Garlic Butter Oysters Au Gratin: Replace the heavy cream with a garlic butter sauce for a richer, more decadent dish.
5. Panko-Crusted Oysters Au Gratin: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy topping.

Best Pairings

• Drink: Pair with a crisp, chilled white wine like Chardonnay or a light, sparkling Champagne.
• Side Dish: Serve with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables.
• Dessert: Finish the meal with a light dessert like lemon sorbet or fruit tart.

Conclusion

Grilled oysters au gratin on the Arteflame grill are a decadent and flavorful treat that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy, cheesy topping with the briny oysters and a hint of smokiness from the grill makes this dish truly special. Serve these oysters as an elegant appetizer, and watch them disappear in no time!