Print

“Seafood Bisque with Crab and Shrimp – A Rich, Creamy Delight”

This creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is rich, comforting, and packed with fresh seafood flavor—perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

  • 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

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

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.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

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.

Step 3: Thicken the Base

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.

Step 4: Simmer the Bisque

Let it simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes until slightly thickened. If using sherry, stir it in now.

Step 5: Add Cream and Seafood

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.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve warm with crusty bread or oyster crackers.

Notes

  • 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.

Nutrition

Keywords: crab and shrimp bisque, seafood bisque recipe, creamy seafood soup, crab bisque, shrimp bisque