Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque Recipe

This Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a luxurious and comforting soup that combines tender crabmeat, succulent shrimp, and a rich, velvety base. Perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners, this bisque is packed with ocean flavors and finished with a hint of sherry for an elegant touch.

Serves: 4-6

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Bisque:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion , finely chopped
• 2 stalks celery , finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic , minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups seafood or chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup dry sherry (optional, but adds depth)
• 1 lb lump crabmeat , picked over for shells
• 1/2 lb medium shrimp , peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 1 medium tomato , diced (or 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes)
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper , to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley , chopped (for garnish)

Optional Garnish:

• Shrimp tails (reserved for presentation)
• Extra parsley or chives
• Crusty bread or oyster crackers (for serving)

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes , until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute , until fragrant.

Step 2: Make the Roux

1. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will thicken the bisque.
2. Gradually whisk in the seafood or chicken stock, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Add the Seafood and Seasonings

1. Stir in the heavy cream, diced tomato, Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes , allowing the flavors to meld.
2. Add the chopped shrimp and crabmeat to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes , or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep the seafood tender.
3. Stir in the dry sherry (if using) and cook for an additional 2 minutes .

Step 4: Blend (Optional)

1. For a smoother bisque, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks of seafood and vegetables for texture. Alternatively, blend half the soup in a regular blender, then return it to the pot.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
2. Add reserved shrimp tails on top for presentation, if desired.
3. Serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers on the side.

Tips for Success:

• Use fresh seafood: Fresh crabmeat and shrimp yield the best flavor, but high-quality frozen options work well too.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the bisque up to a day in advance, but add the seafood just before reheating to prevent it from becoming tough.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust the Old Bay seasoning, salt, or pepper to suit your preference.
• Substitute seafood: Add scallops, clams, or lobster for a more indulgent version.

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 6):

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: ~20g
• Carbohydrates: ~15g
• Fat: ~20g

Enjoy this Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque as an elegant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a taste of the sea. Rich, creamy, and brimming with seafood goodness, it’s sure to become a favorite!