Chef John's Scalloped Oysters

Step 1
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

Step 2
Combine saltine crackers and butter in a bowl; stir until all crumbs are saturated with butter.

Step 3
Spread 1/3 of the saltines mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Pour half of the oysters with their liquor over the saltines mixture. Season with cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Repeat with next 1/3 of saltines and remaining oysters. Season with cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and Italian parsley.

Step 4
Sprinkle remaining saltines mixture over the oysters. Drizzle cream slowly and evenly over the top.

Step 5
Bake in the preheated oven until bubbling and browned, 40 to 45 minutes. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.