Name: Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486093H18M51S
Total time: PT-486093H18M51S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 lb of shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 lb of crab meat, fresh or canned; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 stalk celery, chopped; 1 carrot, peeled and chopped; 3 cups seafood stock (or chicken broth); 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

This creamy crab and shrimp seafood bisque is a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With the combination of succulent crab and shrimp, along with a smooth, velvety base, it’s a luxurious treat that I love making when I want to impress guests or indulge in something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this seafood bisque stand out is the perfect balance of flavors—tender shrimp and delicate crab meat blend seamlessly with a creamy, aromatic broth. The depth of flavor from the sautéed vegetables and the richness of the cream make every spoonful an experience. It’s surprisingly easy to make, and the result is a bowl of pure comfort and elegance.

Ingredients

1/2 lb of shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 lb of crab meat, fresh or canned
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 stalk celery, chopped
1 carrot, peeled and chopped
3 cups seafood stock (or chicken broth)
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

(Hopefully, this list makes it easier for me to gather everything. Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrot, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux. This helps thicken the bisque.
Slowly add the seafood stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add the shrimp and crab meat to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, just until the shrimp turns pink and the crab is heated through.
Stir in the heavy cream, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Let the bisque simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes, then remove from heat.
Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Be sure to leave a few chunks of seafood for texture, if you prefer.
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
Serve the bisque hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes. The prep time is around 15 minutes, and the cooking time takes approximately 25-30 minutes.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne pepper or even a chopped jalapeño for a spicier version.
Add Vegetables: For more texture, I like to add a handful of corn kernels or peas to the bisque.
Lobster Bisque: If I’m feeling extravagant, I sometimes swap out the crab for lobster to elevate the dish even more.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This bisque can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat. If the bisque thickens too much during storage, I add a little more seafood stock or cream to loosen it up.

FAQs

How can I make this seafood bisque ahead of time?

I love making this bisque a day ahead. The flavors deepen and meld, making it even more delicious. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently.

Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?

Yes! I often use frozen shrimp and crab meat if fresh is unavailable. Just make sure to thaw them before using.

Can I make this bisque gluten-free?

Absolutely! I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the bisque.

What kind of seafood stock should I use?

I prefer using homemade seafood stock if possible, but store-bought versions work just as well. Look for a high-quality, low-sodium seafood stock to keep the flavors balanced.

Can I freeze this bisque?

Yes, this bisque freezes well. I recommend freezing it in individual portions for easy reheating. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly after freezing, so I always add a little extra cream or broth when reheating.

Conclusion

This creamy crab and shrimp seafood bisque is the perfect dish to enjoy on a special occasion or whenever I’m in the mood for something comforting and indulgent. The rich, smooth texture and savory flavors are sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether served as a starter or as a main dish, this bisque is always a crowd-pleaser.