Classic French Escargot (Escargots de Bourgogne)
Appetizer32 min4 servingsEasyAbout this recipe
A timeless French bistro classic — tender snails nestled in their shells and baked under a blanket of rich, garlicky herb butter until bubbling and golden. This approachable home version uses canned snails and ceramic escargot dishes, making it surprisingly easy to pull off for a dinner party starter or a special night in. Pair with a crusty baguette to soak up every last drop of the luxurious parsley-garlic butter.
Instructions
- 1
Drain and rinse the canned burgundy snails under cold water. Pat them dry gently with paper towels. Rinse the escargot shells thoroughly under warm water and allow them to air-dry completely.
- 2
In a mixing bowl (or using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment), beat the softened butter until smooth and fluffy, about 1 minute. Add the minced garlic, shallot, flat-leaf parsley, white wine (if using), kosher salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Mix until everything is evenly incorporated and the butter is pale green and fragrant. Taste and adjust seasoning — it should be boldly seasoned since it will mellow in the oven.
- 3
Preheat your oven to ![425°F]. Position a rack in the upper third of the oven.
- 4
Place a small amount of garlic herb butter (about 1/4 teaspoon) into the opening of each shell using a small wooden spoon or your finger. This creates a base layer that keeps the snail moist.
- 5
Using tongs or your fingers, tuck one burgundy snails into each shell, pushing it gently but firmly so it sits securely inside.
- 6
Pack the remaining garlic herb butter generously over the opening of each shell, sealing the snail inside and mounding the butter slightly. Don't be shy — this butter is the star of the dish.
- 7
Arrange the filled shells butter-side up in escargot dishes (6 shells per dish for 4 servings). Place the escargot dishes on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- 8
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, until the butter is fully melted, bubbling vigorously, and just beginning to turn golden at the edges. The shells will be very hot — handle with care.
- 9
Remove from the oven and serve immediately on the escargot dishes. Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley and a lemon wedge on the side. Serve with plenty of sliced French baguette for mopping up the garlic butter — this is essential!
