Description
If you’re looking for a luxurious, restaurant-quality dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly flavorful, this Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is the perfect choice! Made with tender shrimp, sweet crab meat, and a velvety, seasoned broth, this dish is rich, comforting, and sure to impress.
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Ingredients
For the Seafood:
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Shrimp (½ lb, peeled, deveined, chopped) – Tender and juicy.
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Lump Crab Meat (½ lb, cooked) – Sweet and delicate.
For the Bisque:
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Butter (3 tbsp) – Adds richness.
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Shallot (1 small, finely chopped) – Mild and sweet onion flavor.
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Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Essential for depth of flavor.
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Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Provides a touch of umami.
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Flour (2 tbsp) – Helps thicken the bisque.
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Seafood or Chicken Broth (2 cups) – The base of the bisque.
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Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates a luxurious texture.
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Milk (1 cup, whole or 2%) – Lightens the bisque while keeping it creamy.
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Old Bay Seasoning (1 tsp) – A classic seafood seasoning.
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Paprika (½ tsp, optional) – Adds warmth and color.
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Salt & Pepper (to taste) – Enhances the flavors.
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Cayenne Pepper (¼ tsp, optional) – For a hint of spice.
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White Wine Vinegar (1 tbsp) – Balances the richness.
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Fresh Parsley (for garnish, chopped) – Adds freshness.
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
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In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter.
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Add the shallot and garlic, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Base
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Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
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Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 3: Add the Broth & Simmer
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Slowly pour in the seafood or chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
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Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Blend for a Smooth Texture (Optional)
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If you prefer a smoother bisque, use an immersion blender to blend the soup base until creamy.
Step 5: Add the Seafood & Cream
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Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and milk.
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Add the Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).
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Stir in the chopped shrimp and lump crab meat, letting them cook gently for 5 minutes, until the shrimp are opaque and pink.
Step 6: Finish & Serve
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Stir in the white wine vinegar for a touch of acidity.
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Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers.
Notes
Use High-Quality Seafood – Fresh or high-quality frozen seafood makes a big difference.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture.
For a Thicker Bisque – Add an extra tablespoon of flour or reduce the broth slightly.
Make it Even Creamier – Blend part of the bisque before adding the seafood for a smoother consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: French-American