Creamy Crab and Shrimp Bisque – Luxurious Seafood Soup Ready in 30 Minutes
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This creamy crab and shrimp bisque is rich, velvety, and bursting with tender seafood flavor. Made in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect elegant comfort food for any night of the week.
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Why You’ll Love This Seafood Bisque
If you love seafood and crave cozy, comforting meals, this Creamy Crab and Shrimp Bisque is a must-try. It’s a restaurant-quality soup made right at home—with simple ingredients and minimal effort. This bisque boasts a silky-smooth texture, sweet and succulent crab meat, tender shrimp, and a delicately seasoned base with just the right balance of richness and spice.
Ingredients:
For the Bisque Base:
- 2 tbsp butter – Adds richness and depth
- 1 tbsp olive oil – Helps sauté the aromatics
- 1 small onion, finely chopped – Builds the flavor foundation
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – For bold savory aroma
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped – Adds freshness and balance
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour – Thickens the soup to a velvety texture
- 3 cups seafood stock (or chicken broth) – For a rich, savory liquid base
- 1 cup heavy cream – Provides a luxurious, creamy texture
- ½ cup whole milk – Lightens the creaminess just a touch
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional) – Adds umami and a hint of color
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning – A classic seafood seasoning
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika – Subtle smokiness
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional) – For a gentle kick
- Salt and black pepper – To taste
For the Seafood:
- ½ lb cooked shrimp, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- ½ lb lump crab meat, carefully picked over for shells
- 1 tbsp lemon juice – Brightens and balances the richness
- Fresh chopped parsley – For garnish
How to Make Creamy Crab and Shrimp Bisque
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux. This step thickens the bisque and adds a nutty undertone.
Step 3: Add Broth and Cream
Gradually whisk in the seafood stock, followed by the cream, milk, and tomato paste. Stir until smooth and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Season the Base
Add Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste.
Step 5: Add the Seafood
Gently fold in the chopped shrimp and lump crab meat. Simmer for another 5–7 minutes, just until the seafood is warmed through—do not boil.
Step 6: Finish with Brightness
Stir in lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers.
Chef’s Tips for Success
- Smoother Texture? Use an immersion blender on the bisque before adding the seafood for a silky finish.
- Seafood Options: Add scallops, lobster, or even a splash of fish sauce for extra depth.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat—avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute with full-fat coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free version.
Creamy Crab and Shrimp Bisque
Yield: 4–6 servings | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Total: 30 mins
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 cups seafood stock (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- ½ lb cooked shrimp, chopped
- ½ lb lump crab meat
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Sauté onion, celery, and garlic in butter and oil for 5 minutes.
- Stir in flour, cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in stock, cream, milk, and tomato paste. Simmer 10 minutes.
- Add seasoning and spices. Stir.
- Fold in shrimp and crab. Simmer 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice. Adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot with parsley garnish.