There’s something comforting and indulgent about a creamy seafood bisque, especially one packed with succulent crab and shrimp. This Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy night or an elegant appetizer. Best of all, it’s easy to make at home—no need for a restaurant outing!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
- Rich and Flavorful: The blend of tender seafood, cream, and a touch of herbs creates an irresistible taste.
- Easy Elegance: Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.
- Comforting Warmth: A great way to enjoy seafood during cooler months!
Ingredients for Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups seafood or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 lb cooked crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or any seafood seasoning of choice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large saucepan or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Blender or immersion blender (for a smooth texture)
- Ladle for serving
How to Make Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Step 2: Create the Base 3. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring constantly, and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. 4. Slowly pour in the seafood broth, stirring to combine. Add the tomato paste and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 3: Blend for a Smooth Texture 5. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. (Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender, then return to the pot.)
Step 4: Add the Cream and Seafood 6. Stir in the heavy cream, then add the chopped shrimp and crab meat. 7. Season with Old Bay seasoning, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Allow the bisque to simmer gently for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish 8. Ladle the bisque into bowls, garnishing with chopped parsley and chives. 9. Serve warm with a side of crusty bread or a light salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this bisque with warm, crusty French bread or garlic toast for dipping.
- For a lighter meal, enjoy it alongside a fresh, leafy salad.
Tips for the Best Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
- Use Quality Seafood: Fresh or high-quality frozen crab and shrimp make a big difference in flavor.
- Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker bisque, add a touch more flour in Step 2. For a lighter bisque, reduce the cream slightly.
- Customize Seasoning: Add more Old Bay or even a dash of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat.
- Freeze: This bisque can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat slowly to prevent the cream from separating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use other seafood?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add scallops, lobster, or even clams for variety.
Q2: Is this bisque gluten-free?
A: Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickener to make it gluten-free.
Q3: Can I make this bisque in advance?
A: Yes! It actually tastes even better as the flavors meld. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
Enjoy every spoonful of this creamy, flavorful bisque and share it with friends or family for an unforgettable meal. Don’t forget to leave a review if you try it, and let us know how it turned out!
