New Jersey Grilled Oysters with Garlic Butter

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh oysters straight from the grill, and this New Jersey-inspired grilled oyster recipe captures the flavor of the Jersey Shore perfectly. Using the Arteflame grill, we’ll grill fresh oysters over wood fire and finish them with decadent garlic butter and Parmesan cheese on the flat cooktop. This method guarantees perfectly cooked oysters with smoky, bubbling goodness in every bite.

Ingredients

• 12 fresh oysters, scrubbed clean
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour a bit of vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the center of the grill base.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
4. Wait about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches searing temperatures.

Step 2: Prep the Garlic Butter

1. In a bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt & pepper.
2. Mix thoroughly and set aside.

Step 3: Shuck the Oysters

1. Carefully shuck each oyster, keeping the oyster in the deeper shell half and discarding the top lid.
2. Ensure there’s no grit or shell pieces inside.

Step 4: Grill the Oysters

1. Place oysters directly on the flat top cooktop near the center where it's hotter.
2. Use tongs for safety as shells will get very hot.
3. Allow the oysters to cook for 3-5 minutes until they start to bubble and the edges begin to curl slightly.

Step 5: Add Garlic Butter and Cheese

1. Spoon a dollop of garlic butter onto each oyster.
2. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top.
3. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the butter is melted and cheese is golden and bubbly.
4. Move oysters slightly further from the center if needed to avoid burning.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove carefully with tongs and place onto a serving plate.
2. Garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Tips

• Always shuck oysters carefully; use a thick towel or glove to protect your hand.
• Keep the grill hot near the center for faster grilling.
• Move oysters to cooler zones if they begin to overcook on the edges.
• Butter adds richness and browns beautifully—avoid olive oil for this one.
• Experiment with smoke by adding cherry or apple wood chunks for more flavor.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun Oysters: Add Cajun seasoning to the garlic butter and top with a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
2. Lemon Herb Oysters: Replace Parmesan with lemon zest and thyme for a bright, refreshing flavor.
3. Bacon Lovers Oysters: Add crumbled crispy bacon before topping with cheese for smoky, meaty richness.
4. Asian Fusion Oysters: Use garlic-ginger butter and a touch of soy sauce, then garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
5. Pesto Cheese Oysters: Mix butter with basil pesto and top with shredded mozzarella for a creamy, herby finish.

Best pairings

• Chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Champagne
• Grilled corn with garlic butter on the cooktop
• Crusty French bread for dipping in the butter
• Fresh garden salad with lemon vinaigrette

Conclusion

These New Jersey grilled oysters come alive on the Arteflame grill, bringing the combination of fire, garlic, cheese, and fresh shellfish together in harmony. Be sure to serve them up hot and bubbling for the ultimate crowd-pleaser at your next outdoor gathering!