---
title: "Moules Marinières"
id: "1062"
type: "recipe"
slug: "moules-marinieres"
published_at: "2026-06-07T06:05:04+00:00"
modified_at: "2026-06-07T07:07:09+00:00"
url: "https://beestrot.com/recipe/moules-marinieres/"
markdown_url: "https://beestrot.com/recipe/moules-marinieres.md"
excerpt: "Moules Marinières is a coastal French treasure, originating from the northwestern shores where mussels have been cultivated since the 13th century. This re"
taxonomy_category:
  - "Bistrot Cuisine"
  - "Dinner"
  - "Fish and Seafood"
  - "French"
  - "Lunch"
  - "Main Dishes"
  - "Quick (- 30 min)"
  - "Quick &amp; Easy Meals"
  - "Seasonal Cooking"
  - "Steaming"
  - "Stovetop - Sauteing"
  - "Supper"
  - "Vegetables and Produce"
---

Table of Contents

- [• Recipe Overview](#recipe-overview)
- [• Recipe Information](#recipe-metadata)
- [• Time & Quantities](#recipe-time-quantities)
- [• Method & Ingredients](#recipe-method)
  - [- Ingredients](#ingredients-section)
  - [- Instructions](#instructions-section)

- [• Storage & Make-Ahead](#recipe-storage)
- [• Nutritional & Dietary Information](#recipe-nutrition)
- [• Serving & Variations](#recipe-serving)
- [• Video to Share!](#recipe-video)

# Moules Marinières

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★★★★★(4.5/5 from 6 reviews)

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Moules Marinières is a coastal French treasure, originating from the northwestern shores where mussels have been cultivated since the 13th century. This remarkably simple dish showcases plump mussels steamed in a fragrant bath of white wine, shallots, and herbs, allowing their natural briny sweetness to shine. The resulting aromatic broth is an essential part of the experience, traditionally sopped up with crusty bread. Effortlessly elegant yet deeply satisfying, it epitomizes the French reverence for pristine seafood.

Difficulty:★☆☆☆☆(Easy)

Budget: 💰💰

Seasonality: Year-round, Best in Fall, Winter

### Recipe Information [#](#)

**Categories:**

[Bistrot Cuisine](https://beestrot.com/focus/cuisines/bistrot-cuisine/)
[Dinner](https://beestrot.com/focus/courses/dinner/)
[Fish and Seafood](https://beestrot.com/focus/ingredients/fish-and-seafood/)
[French](https://beestrot.com/focus/cuisines/french/)
[Lunch](https://beestrot.com/focus/courses/lunch/)
[Main Dishes](https://beestrot.com/focus/courses/main-dishes/)
[Quick (- 30 min)](https://beestrot.com/focus/time-to-table/quick-30-min/)
[Quick & Easy Meals](https://beestrot.com/focus/occasions/quick-easy-meals/)
[Seasonal Cooking](https://beestrot.com/focus/occasions/seasonal-cooking/)
[Steaming](https://beestrot.com/focus/cooking-methods/steaming/)
[Stovetop - Sauteing](https://beestrot.com/focus/cooking-methods/stovetop-sauteing/)
[Supper](https://beestrot.com/focus/courses/supper/)
[Vegetables and Produce](https://beestrot.com/focus/ingredients/vegetables-and-produce/)

**Tags:** [Citrusy](https://beestrot.com/tags/citrusy/)
 [Garlic](https://beestrot.com/tags/garlic/)
 [Herbaceous](https://beestrot.com/tags/herbaceous/)
 [High-Protein](https://beestrot.com/tags/high-protein/)
 [Lemon](https://beestrot.com/tags/lemon/)
 [Nutty](https://beestrot.com/tags/nutty/)
 [Quick-and-easy](https://beestrot.com/tags/quick-and-easy/)
 [Rich](https://beestrot.com/tags/rich/)

**Religious Considerations:** Contains shellfish; not suitable for those following kosher or certain religious dietary restrictions

**Recipe Source:** Traditional French Coastal Recipe

 Print this Recipe

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### Time & Quantities [#](#)

**Preparation:** 15 mins

**Cooking:** 10 mins

**Total:** 25 mins

**Serves:** 2

**Preparation-to-Cooking Ratio:** 1.5More prep work, but quicker cooking time.

### Method & Ingredients [#](#)

**Required Equipment:** Large pot with lid, colander, large serving bowl

[ExcelSteel Heavy Duty Handles Colander](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00555ETXY/?tag=beestrot08-20)

[View on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00555ETXY/?tag=testtag-20)

[Godinger Glass Nesting Bowls Set](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0824C145D/?tag=beestrot08-20)

[View on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0824C145D/?tag=testtag-20)

[GoodCook 15” x 10.5” Nonstick Carbon Steel Baking Pan & Raised Wire Rack](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08J8DFPRF/?tag=beestrot08-20)

[View on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08J8DFPRF/?tag=testtag-20)

[Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, Swiss Granite Saute Pan](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B086PHS2V8/?tag=beestrot08-20)

[View on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B086PHS2V8/?tag=testtag-20)

[Tongs For Cooking - Heat Resistant 600 Degrees Stainless Steel Kitchen Tong](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B093C29J8H/?tag=beestrot08-20)

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[Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006JSUA/?tag=beestrot08-20)

[View on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006JSUA/?tag=testtag-20)

**Cooking Method:** Steaming, Stovetop - Sauteing

#### Ingredients

- 4 lbs fresh mussels
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 shallots (finely chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 3 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon (cut into wedges)

#### Instructions

1. Clean mussels thoroughly under cold running water. Remove beards (the fibrous threads) by pulling toward the pointed end of the mussel shell. Discard any mussels that are open and don't close when tapped.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add shallots and garlic, cooking until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add white wine, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add mussels to the pot and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Give the pot a good shake - it's like giving the mussels a little dance!
5. Steam for 5-7 minutes, shaking the pot occasionally, until mussels have opened.
6. If using cream, add it now and gently stir.
7. Remove from heat and discard any mussels that haven't opened - these are the stubborn ones we don't invite to dinner!
8. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and black pepper.
9. Serve immediately in large bowls, including plenty of the flavorful broth, with lemon wedges on the side.

### Storage & Make-Ahead [#](#)

**Storage Advice:** Best eaten immediately. Not recommended for storage.

**Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips:** Not suitable for make-ahead or freezing.

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### Nutritional & Dietary Information [#](#)

**Nutritional Information:**

- **Calories:** 390
- **Protein:** 36g
- **Fat:** 12g (Saturated: 6g)
- **Carbohydrates:** 14g (Fiber: 0g, Sugar: 2g)
- **Vitamin A:** 12% DV
- **Vitamin C:** 45% DV
- **Calcium:** 10% DV
- **Iron:** 45% DV

**Allergen Information:** Contains shellfish (mussels), dairy (butter, cream if used)

**Dietary Information:** Contains shellfish and dairy; not suitable for those with shellfish or dairy allergies, vegans, or vegetarians

### Serving & Variations [#](#)

**Serving Suggestions:** Serve in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the beautiful shells. Pour broth generously over mussels. Place an empty bowl on the table for discarded shells. Best Side Dishes: Crusty baguette is essential for soaking up the delicious broth. A simple green salad with light vinaigrette makes a perfect accompaniment.

**Wine or Drink Pairing:** The same dry white wine used in cooking is idealtry a crisp Muscadet from the Loire Valley or a Picpoul de Pinet from Languedoc, both coastal wines that naturally complement seafood.

**Possible Recipe Variations:** Normandy style with a splash of apple brandy (Calvados). Provençal variation with tomatoes and herbs. Add a pinch of saffron and a splash of pastis for a southern French twist.

**Additional Notes:** Use only tightly closed, fresh mussels with a clean ocean scent.

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Disclosure: This recipe may contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a commission if you click on a link and make a purchase at no extra cost to you. This applies to featured Amazon products or any other Beestrot's partners. Thank you for your support! Jean Louis.

## 8 thoughts on “Moules Marinières”

1. Luke[April 30, 2026 at 10:38 am](https://beestrot.com/recipe/moules-marinieres/#comment-426) [Log in to Reply](https://beestrot.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fbeestrot.com%2Frecipe%2Fmoules-marinieres%2F) ★★★★☆(4/5) Saving for summer. Love mussels!
2. Kendra[March 29, 2026 at 6:15 pm](https://beestrot.com/recipe/moules-marinieres/#comment-425) [Log in to Reply](https://beestrot.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fbeestrot.com%2Frecipe%2Fmoules-marinieres%2F) ★★★★★(5/5) ✔️ Made this⭐ Recommends*👍* 0❤️ Finally tried mussels at home and this recipe was perfect. Simple, quick, and tastes like being at a bistro in Normandy.
3. 
  1. [Jean Louis](https://beestrot.com/) [March 30, 2026 at 3:03 am](https://beestrot.com/recipe/moules-marinieres/#comment-427) Where? Saint Malo? 😉

4. Steve R.[February 24, 2026 at 12:45 pm](https://beestrot.com/recipe/moules-marinieres/#comment-424) [Log in to Reply](https://beestrot.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fbeestrot.com%2Frecipe%2Fmoules-marinieres%2F) ★★★★☆(4/5) ✔️ Made this⭐ Recommends*👍* 0❤️ Delicious! 🦪
5. Fiona[January 18, 2026 at 7:22 pm](https://beestrot.com/recipe/moules-marinieres/#comment-423) [Log in to Reply](https://beestrot.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fbeestrot.com%2Frecipe%2Fmoules-marinieres%2F) ★★★★★(5/5) ✔️ Made this⭐ Recommends*👍* 0❤️ Made this last weekend – so easy and impressive! The broth with crusty bread is the best part. My guests thought I spent hours on it.
6. Ricardo S.[April 22, 2025 at 1:10 am](https://beestrot.com/recipe/moules-marinieres/#comment-45) [Log in to Reply](https://beestrot.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fbeestrot.com%2Frecipe%2Fmoules-marinieres%2F) ★★★★★(5/5) ⭐ Recommends*👍* 0❤️ Made these moules marinieres for a casual dinner and they were excellent! So quick to cook once all the prep is done. The white wine and shallot broth is simple but perfect. Don’t forget plenty of crusty bread for dipping!
7. Eva M.[April 15, 2025 at 4:45 pm](https://beestrot.com/recipe/moules-marinieres/#comment-46) [Log in to Reply](https://beestrot.com/wp-login.php?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fbeestrot.com%2Frecipe%2Fmoules-marinieres%2F) ★★★★☆(4/5) ✔️ Made this⭐ Recommends*👍* 1❤️ These mussels look good. I’ve been wanting to try cooking them at home but was intimidated. I tried once, didn’t work great but this recipe seems approachable and more inline with what I would expect from this french classic. Are there any tips for making sure all the mussels are clean?
8. 
  1. [Jean Louis](https://beestrot.com/) [April 19, 2025 at 3:28 am](https://beestrot.com/recipe/moules-marinieres/#comment-137) Clean the molds of filaments and residues outside, make sure to not eat the ones not opened after cooking, usually still good but better to avoid them.

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