Crab And Shrimp Seafood Bisque Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque on a chilly evening. The rich, velvety broth, infused with the delicate sweetness of seafood and aromatic herbs, makes every spoonful pure comfort.

this Recipe

I first discovered this bisque on a coastal getaway, where a small seafood shack served the creamiest, most flavorful version I'd ever tasted. After several kitchen experiments, I finally perfected my own recipe—one that's easy enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for a special occasion.

Why You'll Love This Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Get ready to impress your taste buds with this luxurious seafood bisque. It's packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and perfect for any seafood lover.

First, it's surprisingly simple. While bisques might sound fancy, this one comes together in just about 40 minutes, making it ideal for both casual dinners and entertaining guests.

The flavors are rich yet perfectly balanced. The combination of tender shrimp, sweet crab, and a creamy, well-seasoned broth creates a symphony of taste that feels indulgent without being overwhelming.

It's a great way to elevate leftover seafood. If you have extra shrimp or crab from another dish, this bisque transforms them into something extraordinary.

And let’s not forget versatility! Whether you prefer a thicker, heartier bisque or a lighter version, you can adjust the consistency to match your preference.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this bisque lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating a deeply flavorful, creamy soup.

Shrimp and Crab – Fresh or frozen shrimp and lump crab meat work beautifully in this recipe. If using frozen seafood, be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to avoid excess liquid in the soup.

Butter and Aromatics – A mix of butter, garlic, and shallots forms the base of the bisque, infusing it with a fragrant depth of flavor. Shallots provide a slightly sweeter, milder taste than onions, which complements the seafood perfectly.

Tomato Paste and Old Bay Seasoning – Tomato paste adds a touch of acidity and richness, while Old Bay brings that signature seafood seasoning blend with just the right amount of warmth and spice.

Heavy Cream and Seafood Stock – The key to a velvety-smooth bisque! Heavy cream gives the soup its luxurious texture, while seafood stock enhances the natural briny goodness of the crab and shrimp. If you don’t have seafood stock, a mix of chicken broth and a splash of clam juice works as a substitute.

Sherry or White Wine – A splash of dry sherry or white wine deepens the flavor of the bisque, adding a slightly nutty, aromatic touch. If you prefer to skip alcohol, a bit of extra broth and a squeeze of lemon juice will do the trick.

A good blender or immersion blender is also handy for achieving the perfect creamy consistency.

How To Make This Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Making this bisque is easier than you think, and the result is a silky, restaurant-quality soup that will impress anyone at the table.

Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add shallots and garlic, sautéing them until they’re soft and fragrant. This step sets the foundation for a deeply flavorful soup.

Next, stir in tomato paste and Old Bay seasoning, letting them cook for a minute or two. This enhances their flavors and gives the bisque its signature warm, slightly smoky depth.

Pour in sherry or white wine, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly reduced. Then, add seafood stock and bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Now it’s time to blend! Use an immersion blender to puree the base until smooth. If using a regular blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches and blend until silky.

Return the soup to the pot, then stir in heavy cream, crab meat, and shrimp. Let it simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink and tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as seafood can become rubbery if left on the heat too long.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. A little extra Old Bay, salt, or a squeeze of lemon juice can bring out the flavors even more.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for color. A side of crusty bread or oyster crackers makes the perfect companion!

Storage Options

This bisque is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they store well for later.

For refrigeration, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To freeze, store the bisque in freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It will stay good for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Reheating is simple—warm it over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Avoid bringing it to a full boil, as this can cause the cream to separate. If the bisque thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun ways to switch things up.

Lobster Bisque Variation – Swap out the shrimp for chopped lobster tail to create an ultra-luxurious version of this soup. Lobster shells can also be simmered in the stock beforehand for even more depth.

Dairy-Free Option – Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a slightly different but equally creamy texture. The subtle coconut flavor pairs surprisingly well with seafood.

Spicy Kick – If you love heat, add a dash of Cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce. A bit of smoked paprika can also bring a bolder, slightly spicy dimension.

Thicker Bisque – For an extra thick, chowder-like consistency, whisk in a small amount of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) before adding the cream. Let it simmer until thickened.

Extra Veggies – Sautéed celery and carrots add a touch of sweetness and extra texture to the soup without overpowering the seafood.

No matter how you customize it, this Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a guaranteed winner. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite in your recipe rotation!

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