Gratinated Mussels Marinière (Moules Marinières Gratinées)

Gratinated Mussels Marinière is a luxurious twist on the classic French dish. Mussels are first steamed in a fragrant white wine sauce, then topped with a creamy gratin of cheese and breadcrumbs before being baked to golden perfection. This elegant yet easy dish is perfect for special occasions, dinner parties, or simply indulging in a taste of France at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic French Elegance – A refined dish inspired by the famous Moules Marinières.
• Creamy and Flavorful – The white wine sauce, rich cream, and gratinéed cheese create a delightful combination.
• Perfect for Entertaining – Impressive yet easy to prepare, making it great for dinner parties.
• Quick and Simple – Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal effort.
• Deliciously Versatile – Serve as an appetizer or a main dish with crusty bread or a side salad.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 lbs fresh mussels
• 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup grated cheese (Parmesan or Gruyère)
• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Clean the mussels

• Scrub the mussel shells under cold running water and remove the beards (fibrous threads).
• Discard any mussels that do not close when tapped, as they may not be fresh.

2. Steam the mussels

• In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add the chopped shallots and garlic and sauté until translucent.
• Pour in the white wine, then add the cleaned mussels.
• Cover and steam for 5 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally, until the mussels open.
• Discard any mussels that do not open.

3. Prepare the gratin

• Remove the mussels from their shells, keeping one half of each shell to serve as a base.
• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Mix the heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of the cooking liquid from the mussels.
• Spoon a small amount of this mixture over each mussel in its shell.

4. Assemble and bake

• Sprinkle each mussel with grated cheese, breadcrumbs, and black pepper.
• Arrange them on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

5. Serve and garnish

• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
• Enjoy with crusty bread or a side of fries.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving

Variations

• Garlic Butter Version: Replace cream with garlic butter for a richer, more garlicky taste.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
• Herb-Infused: Mix fresh thyme or chives into the cream for extra flavor.
• No-Cheese Option: Skip the cheese and increase the breadcrumbs for a lighter gratin.
• Wine-Free Alternative: Use vegetable broth or lemon juice instead of white wine.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover mussels in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
• Reheating: Warm in a low-temperature oven (300°F/150°C) for 5 minutes. Avoid overcooking to prevent toughness.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as cooked mussels lose their texture when frozen.

FAQs

What are Moules Marinières?

Moules Marinières is a classic French dish where mussels are steamed in white wine, garlic, and herbs.

Can I use frozen mussels?

Yes, but make sure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking.

How do I prevent mussels from becoming tough?

Avoid overcooking—steam only until they open, and bake just until golden.

What kind of wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Pinot Grigio works best.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can steam the mussels ahead, but gratinate them just before serving for the best texture.

What can I serve with gratinated mussels?

They pair well with crusty bread, fries, a light salad, or white wine.

How do I know if mussels are fresh?

Fresh mussels should be closed or close when tapped. Discard any that remain open.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Gruyère, Parmesan, or Comté all work well for the gratin topping.

What’s the best way to eat gratinated mussels?

Use a small fork to scoop the mussels from the shell, and enjoy with a bite of bread.

Is this dish traditional in France?

Yes, Moules Marinières is a classic dish from coastal regions of France, especially in Normandy and Brittany.

Conclusion

Gratinated Mussels Marinière is a sophisticated yet simple French dish that elevates classic steamed mussels with a rich, golden gratin topping. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this dish is guaranteed to impress with its creamy, cheesy, and briny flavors. Pair it with a glass of white wine and enjoy a taste of coastal France at home!