Introduction
Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a rich, velvety soup loaded with tender shrimp, sweet crab meat, and a smooth, flavorful cream base. This comforting seafood classic is perfect for special dinners, cozy nights, or when you want to impress guests with a restaurant-style dish at home.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups seafood stock (or chicken broth)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup whole milk
1 cup lump crab meat
1 cup raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.
Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
Slowly pour in the seafood stock while whisking to avoid lumps.
Add the tomato paste, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add the shrimp and cook for 3–4 minutes until pink and tender.
Stir in the crab meat, heavy cream, and milk.
Simmer for another 5 minutes without boiling.
Adjust seasoning if needed.
How to Make It Extra Creamy
Blend half of the soup using an immersion blender and leave the rest chunky for texture.
For a smoother bisque, strain the soup after blending.
Add a splash of sherry or white wine for deeper flavor.
Variations
Add scallops for a deluxe seafood version.
Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter twist.
Make it spicy by adding extra cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.
Add corn kernels for a sweet, Southern-style touch.
Tips
Do not overcook the shrimp or they will become rubbery.
Use fresh seafood for the best flavor.
Simmer gently — avoid boiling after adding cream.
Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 350–400
Protein: 25g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and essential minerals.
Healthy Benefits
Provides high-quality protein from seafood.
Contains omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health.
Good source of vitamins B12 and D.
Offers minerals like zinc and selenium for immune support.
Conclusion
Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is indulgent, elegant, and full of comforting seafood flavor. With its silky texture and rich taste, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. 🍤🦀
