New York Style Grilled Oysters Rockefeller

Introduction

Grilled oysters are a New York seafood classic, and nothing elevates them like the intense heat and even cooking power of the Arteflame grill. Inspired by the seafood haunts near Rockefeller Center, this grilled version brings out deep smoky, buttery flavors with hints of smoked paprika—all done without pots, pans, or ovens. With the Arteflame’s 1,000°F center grill grate and temperature-zoned flat cooktop, you can create restaurant-quality oysters right in your backyard. Let’s get those flames going and make the ultimate oyster dish that’s bound to impress.

Ingredients

• 12 fresh oysters, in shell
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs (optional for crunch)
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
4. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches around 1,000°F.

Step 2: Prep your oysters

1. Shuck the oysters carefully, keeping the oyster and its juices in the deeper shell half.
2. Set each oyster on the flat top cooktop (keep them stable by nestling in a ring of coarse salt if needed).

Step 3: Create butter mixture

1. Mix melted butter with smoked paprika, garlic, a pinch of salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Grill the oysters

1. Spoon the butter mixture evenly over each oyster.
2. Top with Parmesan and a small sprinkle of breadcrumbs if using.
3. Place oysters toward the center on the flat-top griddle for more intense heat.
4. Grill uncovered for 4–6 minutes, until the butter sizzles and cheese starts browning.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

1. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
2. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Tips

• Always cook oysters cup-side down to retain juices during grilling.
• Use the inner ring of the Arteflame flat top for faster cooking and light charring.
• Want even more flavor? Smoke some herbs or citrus peels in the fire for an aromatic finish.
• Never overcook the oysters; they continue cooking after leaving the grill.

Variations

• Spicy Cajun Oysters: Add a pinch of Cajun seasoning and a dash of hot sauce to the butter mix for a bold Southern-style kick.
• Lemon-Herb Oysters: Swap smoked paprika with zest of one lemon and chopped tarragon for a zippy and fragrant flavor.
• Asian-Inspired Oysters: Combine the butter with miso paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil for a rich umami bomb.
• Bacon & Blue Oysters: Top oysters with bleu cheese crumbles and crispy bacon for a decadent twist.
• Pesto Parmesan Oysters: Replace the butter mix with a spoonful of fresh basil pesto and top with grated Parm.

Best pairings

• Chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Muscadet
• Grilled asparagus or charred lemon green beans
• Rustic bread with garlic butter grilled on the Arteflame's outer cooktop
• Light summer salad with citrus vinaigrette

Conclusion

With just a few fresh ingredients and the power of the Arteflame grill, New York-style Rockefeller oysters become a show-stopping grilled delicacy. These oysters sear beautifully and pick up a rich smoky essence that only wood-fired grilling can deliver. You'll never want to eat oysters any other way again!