The BEST Crab Bisque Recipe – Creamy, Rich, and Flavorful
Warm up with The BEST Crab Bisque, a luxurious, creamy soup bursting with lump crab meat and savory flavors. This easy crab bisque recipe combines a velvety roux-based broth with aromatic spices, white wine, and tender crab for a restaurant-quality dish you can make at home. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this seafood bisque is ready in just 45 minutes. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a gourmet meal that will impress everyone at the table!
Meta Description: Learn how to make the BEST Crab Bisque with this easy, creamy recipe! Packed with lump crab meat, rich broth, and bold flavors, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. Ready in 45 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: 300 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Crab Bisque Recipe
This creamy crab bisque is a seafood lover’s dream, delivering rich, comforting flavors with every spoonful. The combination of tender lump crab meat, aromatic Old Bay seasoning, and a silky broth makes it an irresistible dish for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and less than an hour of your time.
Keywords: crab bisque recipe, creamy seafood bisque, easy crab soup, gourmet soup recipes, lump crab meat recipes, Old Bay seafood dishes, cozy dinner ideas.
Ingredients
For the Crab Bisque
- 1 pound lump crab meat (fresh or high-quality canned)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups seafood or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crab
- Carefully pick through the lump crab meat to remove any shells or cartilage. Set aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Make the Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes to form a smooth, lightly browned roux. This will thicken the bisque and add depth of flavor.
Step 4: Add the Liquids
- Gradually whisk in the seafood or chicken broth, ensuring the roux dissolves completely for a smooth texture.
- Add the heavy cream, half-and-half, dry white wine, and tomato paste. Stir until the tomato paste is fully incorporated.
Step 5: Season the Bisque
- Stir in the Old Bay seasoning, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes until the bisque thickens slightly.
Step 6: Add the Crab
- Gently fold in the lump crab meat, taking care not to break up the delicate pieces.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 7: Serve
- Ladle the hot crab bisque into bowls.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, zesty finish.
Tips for the Perfect Crab Bisque
- Choosing Crab Meat: Use high-quality lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor. Fresh or pasteurized crab meat works well.
- Wine Substitute: If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, replace the white wine with additional broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the bisque base (without crab) up to a day in advance. Add the crab meat just before serving to keep it tender.
- Texture Tip: For an even smoother bisque, use an immersion blender to blend the base before adding the crab meat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy crab bisque with crusty French bread, garlic toast, or oyster crackers for dipping. Pair it with a chilled glass of dry white wine, such as Chardonnay, or a light salad with a lemon vinaigrette to complement the rich flavors. For a complete seafood feast, consider adding a side of Grilled Shrimp Skewers or Lobster Tail with Garlic Butter.
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Nutritional Information
- Calories: 300 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4
- Macros (approximate per serving):
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
