Savory Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque Recipe to Warm Your Soul

Creamy crab and shrimp seafood bisque swirls with maritime magic that beckons ocean lovers to their kitchen.

Luxurious flavors dance across your palate with each spoonful of this classic coastal comfort.

seafood enthusiasts recognize this dish as a celebration of marine delicacies and culinary craft.

Rich broth carries delicate shellfish through a symphony of subtle herbs and warm spices.

Smooth textures blend perfectly with chunks of tender crab and plump shrimp swimming in velvety cream.

Memories of seaside restaurants emerge as you ladle this elegant soup into waiting bowls.

Savor every moment of crafting this gourmet experience that promises to transport you straight to the coastline.

Crab And Shrimp Seafood Bisque: Key Elements

  • Savor Quick Comfort: Dive into a heartwarming soup that combines the delightful flavors of potstickers, mushrooms, and bok choy in one satisfying bowl, perfect for those craving a speedy and nourishing meal.
  • Master Simple Cooking: Requiring minimal ingredients and basic kitchen skills, this recipe welcomes home cooks of all levels to create a restaurant-quality dish without complicated techniques or extensive preparation.
  • Boost Nutritional Power: Packed with protein-rich potstickers, nutrient-dense bok choy, and umami-rich mushrooms, this soup delivers a balanced and wholesome meal that supports overall wellness in every spoonful.
  • Customize with Ease: Adaptable to personal preferences, the recipe allows seamless modifications like swapping protein types, adjusting spice levels, or incorporating additional vegetables to suit individual tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients Needed For Crab And Shrimp Seafood Bisque

For the Seafood:
  • Shrimp: Fresh seafood that adds sweet and tender texture to the bisque.
  • Crab Meat: Delicate and rich protein that provides a luxurious seafood flavor.
For the Base:
  • Butter: Provides rich, smooth foundation for the bisque.
  • Onion, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that create a deep, savory flavor profile.
  • Flour: Helps thicken the bisque and create a smooth consistency.
For the Liquid and Seasonings:
  • Seafood Stock: Enhances the seafood flavor and creates a rich liquid base.
  • White Wine: Adds depth and complexity to the overall taste.
  • Tomato Paste: Contributes a subtle tangy and rich undertone.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious, creamy texture and adds richness.
  • Old Bay Seasoning, Paprika, Cayenne Pepper, Salt: Spices that provide balanced and warm seafood flavor.
For the Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, fresh finish to the bisque.

How To Prepare Crab And Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Step 1: Prepare The Sizzling Base

Heat a large pot and melt butter over medium heat. Toss in diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they release their aromatic fragrance and become soft and translucent.

Step 2: Create A Silky Roux

Sprinkle flour into the pot and stir continuously, cooking for 1-2 minutes to develop a smooth, golden roux that will thicken the bisque and add depth of flavor.

Step 3: Build The Liquid Foundation

Gradually pour in seafood stock and white wine, whisking constantly to prevent lumps and create a silky, rich liquid base for the bisque.

Step 4: Infuse With Signature Spices

Blend in tomato paste, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and a touch of cayenne pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 10 minutes, letting the spices meld and intensify.

Step 5: Introduce Creamy Luxury

Pour in heavy cream, stirring to create a luxurious, velvety texture. Gently add:
  • Succulent shrimp
  • Delicate crab meat

Cook until shrimp turns a vibrant pink and is thoroughly cooked, approximately 5 minutes.

Step 6: Finish And Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Ladle the steaming bisque into bowls and serve immediately for a decadent seafood experience.

Pro Tips For Crab And Shrimp Seafood Bisque

  • Choose fresh, high-quality seafood for the most vibrant flavors and best texture in your bisque.
  • Adjust spice levels by carefully measuring cayenne pepper, adding gradually to suit personal heat preferences.
  • Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version of the bisque.
  • Let the roux cook completely to eliminate raw flour taste and enhance the soup's depth of flavor.
  • Keep seafood tender by avoiding overcooking; remove shrimp immediately once they turn pink to prevent rubbery consistency.

Flavor Variations For Crab And Shrimp Seafood Bisque

  • Spicy Southern Seafood Bisque: Boost heat by increasing cayenne and adding diced jalapeños for a bold Cajun-style kick.
  • Mediterranean Seafood Bisque: Replace white wine with dry vermouth, add saffron threads, and garnish with chopped fresh basil for a Mediterranean flair.
  • Low-Carb Seafood Bisque: Substitute flour with almond flour or xanthan gum, use lighter cream, and add extra seafood for protein-rich version.
  • Coconut Curry Seafood Bisque: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk, add red curry paste, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for an Asian-inspired variation.

Serving Ideas For Crab And Shrimp Seafood Bisque

  • Coastal Comfort Pairings
  • Crusty sourdough bread serves as the perfect companion, soaking up the rich, creamy bisque while adding delightful texture to each spoonful.
  • Crisp white wine like Chardonnay complements the seafood's delicate flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience with its refreshing notes.
  • Elegant salad with mixed greens, citrus segments, and light vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the bisque's luxurious, velvety consistency.
  • Roasted garlic herb crostini offers a crunchy side that beautifully highlights the seafood's subtle sweetness and aromatic seasonings.

Storage Tips For Crab And Shrimp Seafood Bisque

  • Transfer leftover bisque to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Pour cooled bisque into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Warm bisque slowly over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. Add a splash of seafood stock or cream if the sauce seems too thick after refrigeration.
  • Reheat only the portion you plan to consume. Multiple reheating cycles can degrade the texture and flavor of the delicate seafood and cream-based soup.

FAQs

  • What seafood can I use in this bisque?

Feel free to swap in lobster or use only crab or only shrimp based on availability and preference. The key is using fresh, high-quality seafood for the best flavor.

  • Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative like cashew cream. Just note the texture and taste might slightly change from the original recipe.

  • Is this bisque spicy?

The recipe has a mild heat from cayenne pepper and Old Bay seasoning. If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the cayenne. For more heat, add extra cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.

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Crab And Shrimp Seafood Bisque Recipe


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4.7 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Creamy crab and shrimp seafood bisque delivers rich coastal flavors from French culinary traditions. Chefs can elevate home cooking with this luxurious seafood soup that welcomes diners to savor ocean-inspired comfort.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 pound crab meat
  • 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups seafood stock
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup white wine
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat, sautéing diced onions and minced garlic until they release their aromatic essence and become translucent.
  2. Sprinkle flour into the butter mixture, stirring constantly to create a smooth, golden roux that will thicken the bisque’s base.
  3. Gradually incorporate seafood stock and white wine, whisking methodically to prevent lumps and ensure a silky texture.
  4. Introduce tomato paste, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper, allowing the flavors to meld together during a gentle 10-minute simmer.
  5. Pour in heavy cream, creating a rich and velvety consistency, then gently fold in succulent shrimp and delicate crab meat.
  6. Continue cooking for approximately 5 minutes, or until the shrimp turns a vibrant pink and becomes perfectly tender.
  7. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous brightness.
  8. Serve piping hot in warm bowls, inviting diners to savor the luxurious seafood bisque.

Notes

  • Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative that maintains a creamy texture.
  • Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch instead of regular flour to make the bisque celiac-friendly.
  • Choose wild-caught seafood for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious dish.
  • Control spice levels by adjusting cayenne pepper to suit individual heat preferences.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 646
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 410 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 9 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 84 g
  • Cholesterol: 310 mg
Clara Bennett

Clara Bennett

Contributing Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Development, Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Recipe Creation, Culinary Storytelling and Food Journalism, Recipe Testing and Standardization, Southern Comfort Foods and Modern Twists

Education

Sullivan University – National Center for Hospitality Studies
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Focus: Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing, and Culinary Journalism.

Clara specialized in crafting desserts that blend classic Southern comfort with modern techniques, while developing strong writing skills to tell the story behind every dish.

Lane Community College (Certificate Program)
Certificate in Food Writing and Photography

Focus: Culinary storytelling, recipe formatting, food styling, and visual presentation.


Clara’s love of baking started young, powered by homemade pies, biscuits, and stories passed around the family table.
After earning her degree at Sullivan University and a food writing certificate at Lane Community College, she turned her passion into a craft: sharing recipes that are simple, soulful, and always full of heart.
She’s big on bold flavors, flexible ideas, and creating sweets that fit any table (yes, even if you’re gluten-free). When she’s not baking, you’ll find her wandering farmers’ markets, styling food for the next photo shoot, or working on her ever-growing recipe journal.

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