How To Host An Oyster Roast
Hosting a classic oyster roast is a time-honored Southern tradition—especially in South Carolina. Whether you’re feeding a crowd for game day, a family gathering, or a neighborhood cookout, this DIY oyster roast guide walks you through everything you need to know: how many oysters to buy per person, the proper steaming setup with a propane burner and 10-gallon pot, how to build and dress your oyster table, what tools and condiments to have ready, and what traditional sides pair best. With clear steps and helpful tips, you’ll be ready to host a memorable oyster roast from start to finish.
Follow the easy step-by-step instructions provided. Check out our helpful videos and shop for what you need for your roast!
Everything You Need For An Oyster Roast!
The first, and most important thing you will need is delicious oysters! If you live in an area where you can get fresh local oysters, that would be best. Farm-raised oysters will also work.
Cooking and setting up are the same for whichever type of oysters you like best. You can always put your favorite condiments for eating oysters that you use, too.
How Many Oyster Per Person(Local v. Farm Raised)?
How many oysters will I need for my oyster roast? If you are ordering oysters by the bushels, you can expect to feed from 8 to 10 people. If you prefer to use farm-raised oysters, you will need about 8 pounds of oysters per person.
Oyster Roast Steaming Setup(Propane Burner & Pot)
The next thing you will need is a propane burner, a 10-gallon pot, and a drop basket to steam the oysters. You will only need to fill the pot with a few inches of water; we are steaming the oysters, not boiling them. Always make sure there is water in the pot, so it does not get burned and ruined.
You will need a propane tank to run your burner. A 20# propane tank will do and can be purchased at most gas stations.
Making An Oyster Table
After you have your cooker set up and ready to steam, you will need an oyster table. We recommend a plywood table with openings cut into the plywood. Two 32-gallon cans will go under the openings in the table, and this is where guest will throw their shells while eating. The cans also allow for easy recycling of shells. Remember to only throw shells in the cans.
Please note that any waterproof table may work. The shell receptacles can be placed near the table if it does not have openings.
How To Dress Your Oyster Table For Service
What you need to dress your oyster table.
- Oyster Knives. Although the oysters are steamed open, you will need an oyster knife to finish them all the way. Shop Oyster Knives
- Hand Towels. You will need a hand towel to handle the warm oysters.
- Saltine Crackers. Many people enjoy eating oysters on a saltine cracker.
- Cocktail Sauce. Cocktail Sauce is the staple condiment for oysters.
- Hot Sauce. Tabasco or Texas Pete is recommended.
- Lemon Wedges. Freshly squeezed lemon gives oysters a little zing!
- Melted Butter. Melted butter is an optional condiment.
Traditional Sides For Oyster Roast
Traditional side dishes served at oyster roasts include Shrimp Boils, BBQ Pork, Chili, and Cole Slaw.
Now you are ready to have a great time socializing with family and friends at your very own oyster roasts!
Check out our video on how to steam oysters. How To Dress A Table For An Oyster Roast.
Learn about oyster shell recycling.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Hosting an Oyster Roast (FAQs)
How many people does a bushel of oysters feed?
A standard bushel of oysters typically feeds about 8–10 people. Portions depend on whether you’re serving hearty sides and how big your guests’ appetites are.
How many farm-raised oysters should I plan per person?
For farm-raised oysters, plan on about 8 pounds per person. This helps ensure everyone gets a satisfying share when served alongside traditional sides. A bushel of wild-caught SC Oysters will serve 8 to 10 people.
Do you boil or steam oysters at an oyster roast?
You steam oysters rather than boil them. Add only a few inches of water to your pot—just enough to create steam. This keeps oysters juicy and prevents them from getting dry.
What equipment do I need to cook oysters for an oyster roast?
The basic cooking setup includes a propane burner, a 10-gallon pot, and a steamer/drop basket. You’ll also need a propane tank to run the burner safely.
What are the must-have tools and supplies at the oyster table?
Make sure you’re stocked with oyster knives, hand towels, crackers, cocktail sauce, hot sauce, lemon wedges, and optional melted butter. Set these out on your table so guests can easily prepare their oysters.
What sides go well with an oyster roast?
Traditional sides include classic Southern favorites like shrimp boils, BBQ pork, chili, and Cole slaw. These complement steamed oysters and keep your crowd satisfied.
Charleston Oyster Roast Catering 