Seafood Bisque with Crab and Shrimp

A rich and velvety seafood soup that feels like a hug in a bowl!
If you’re craving something indulgent and ocean-inspired, this Seafood Bisque with Crab and Shrimp is the answer. Creamy, comforting, and full of depth, this classic bisque is loaded with sweet crab meat, tender shrimp, and kissed with a hint of sherry and spice. Whether you’re serving it as a holiday appetizer or a cozy dinner for two, this dish delivers restaurant-worthy flavor with surprisingly little fuss.
Ingredients
Serves 4–6
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup carrots, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups seafood or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 lb cooked crab meat, shells removed
- 1/2 lb cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
- 2 tbsp sherry (optional, for depth)
- Fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or dill), for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté the Veggies
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, just until fragrant.
2️⃣ Build the Base
Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to deepen in flavor.
3️⃣ Thicken with Flour
Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to combine. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly—it should form a light roux.
4️⃣ Simmer the Broth
Gradually pour in the broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Once smooth, bring the bisque to a simmer. Let it bubble gently on low for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5️⃣ Blend for Creaminess
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. (Or carefully transfer in batches to a standard blender.) Return to pot.
6️⃣ Add Cream & Seafood
Stir in the heavy cream and let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Add the crab, shrimp, and sherry (if using), and simmer 5 more minutes—just enough to warm through without overcooking.
7️⃣ Taste & Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers!
Chef’s Tips:
- Make it luxe: Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, or go all out with a swirl of crème fraîche on top.
- Seafood swap: Lobster, scallops, or even firm white fish work beautifully here if you’re feeling fancy.
- Meal pairing: Serve with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a dry rosé for a dreamy combo.
Quick Info
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Calories: ~350 per serving
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid curdling.
This Seafood Bisque is pure velvet in a bowl—perfect for chilly nights, special dinners, or anytime you’re craving something cozy with class. One spoonful, and you’ll be hooked.
Happy slurping!
#SeafoodLovers #CreamyComfort #BisqueBliss