This creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is rich, comforting, and packed with fresh seafood flavor—perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
1/2 pound cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
1/2 pound cooked crab meat, shells removed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
1/4 cup finely diced carrots
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons tomato paste
4 cups seafood or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons sherry (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, chives, or dill)
Crusty bread, for serving
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add celery, carrots, and onion. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add tomato paste, paprika, and cayenne. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and tomato paste to deepen in color.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Let it simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes until slightly thickened. If using sherry, stir it in now.
Lower the heat. Stir in the heavy cream until heated through — do not boil. Add the shrimp and crab meat, and cook gently for 5 more minutes to warm.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve warm with crusty bread or oyster crackers.
Use seafood broth for stronger flavor, or chicken broth for a lighter version.
Want it smoother? Purée before adding seafood, using an immersion blender.
Lump crab meat adds luxury; claw meat is more budget-friendly.
Make ahead tip: Prepare the bisque base and add seafood when reheating.
Keywords: crab and shrimp bisque, seafood bisque recipe, creamy seafood soup, crab bisque, shrimp bisque