Growing up in Louisiana, oysters were simply a way of life. My dad made sure I learned to appreciate them at an early age, and whenever we stopped for po’boys, his order was almost always a fried oyster po’boy. Those memories sparked a lifelong love of Gulf oysters and all the incredible ways they can be enjoyed.

The Gulf Coast is blessed with an abundance of fresh oysters, making them a staple of Cajun and Creole cooking. Whether you enjoy them ice-cold on the half shell (as long as the month ends in ‘r’), grilled over an open flame, tucked into a crispy po’boy, or charbroiled with garlic butter and Parmesan like the legendary version from Drago’s, there’s no shortage of delicious possibilities.

This Smoked Oyster Dip is another one to add to that list. Rich, creamy, smoky, and topped with a buttery cracker crust, it’s an easy appetizer that feels right at home at a holiday gathering, football party, or backyard cookout. Served hot with toasted French bread or your favorite crackers, it’s guaranteed to disappear long before the game is over.

Ingredients 

2 cans smoked oysters,(3-3.75 oz) drained

4 oz cream cheese, softened

¼ cup mayonnaise

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or pepper jack to kick it up a notch)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Black pepper, to taste

Green onions, garnish 

Topping:

½ cup crushed buttery crackers (about 13 Ritz) 

2 tablespoons melted butter

Extra Parmesan cheese

Directions 

Preheat your oven to 400°F. 

In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper until smooth. Gently fold in the drained smoked oysters and spread the mixture into a small baking dish. Mix the cracker crumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle over the top along with a little extra Parmesan. Bake for 18–20 minutes, until hot and bubbly. Garnish with fresh cut green onion and serve with toasted bread or your favorite crackers.