2 tbsp. butter
1 c. fresh white bread crumbs (from 3-4 slices French or Italian bread)
1 tsp. minced garlic
2 tbsp. finely chopped parsley
2 doz. freshly shucked oysters, drained
3 tbsp. freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Generously butter an 8x10 ovenproof dish.

In skillet, melt butter over moderate heat. Add bread crumbs and garlic. Toss 2-3 minutes or until crisp and golden. Stir in parsley. Spread 2/3 of this mixture in bottom of baking dish. Arrange oysters over it in one layer.

Mix rest of mixture with grated cheese and spread over oysters. Dot with butter. Bake in top third of oven for 12-15 minutes or until juices are bubbling. Can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking.