Print

Creamy Southern-Style Oyster Stew with Butter and Spices

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Creamy Southern-Style Oyster Stew with Butter and Spices is a rich and comforting seafood dish featuring fresh oysters simmered in a buttery, milk-based broth infused with onion, celery, and aromatic spices. A classic Southern recipe perfect for chilly days and special occasions.

Ingredients

  1. 1 pint fresh oysters with liquor (shucked)
  2. 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
  3. 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
  4. 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  5. 1 small onion, finely chopped
  6. 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
  7. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  8. 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  9. 1/4 tsp hot sauce (optional)
  10. 1/4 tsp ground white or black pepper
  11. 1/2 tsp paprika
  12. Salt to taste
  13. Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  14. Oyster crackers or crusty bread, for serving

Instructions

In a medium pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add onion and celery and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

  1. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  2. Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream (if using), stirring constantly. Reduce heat to medium-low and heat gently — do not let it boil.
  3. Add Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 5 minutes to infuse flavors.
  4. Add oysters and their liquor. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until oysters curl at the edges and turn opaque.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions. Serve hot with crackers or bread.

Notes

  • Do not boil the stew — gentle simmering preserves texture and prevents curdling.
  • Use the oyster liquor for authentic briny flavor.
  • Add potatoes or leeks for heartier variations.
  • Use heavy cream for a richer stew, or stick with milk for a lighter version.
  • Best served fresh but can be prepped partially ahead of time.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/creamy-southern-style-oyster-stew-with-butter-and-spices/