Creamy Crab & Shrimp Bisque Recipe

Quick Benefits

Creamy Crab & Shrimp Bisque is a luxurious seafood soup that’s perfect for elegant dinners or comforting at-home indulgence. Rich, velvety, and bursting with flavor, it combines tender shrimp, sweet crab meat, and a creamy, tomato-kissed broth. Ready in under 30 minutes, this bisque delivers gourmet results with minimal effort.

Essential Ingredients

Seafood

• 8 ounces crab meat
• 8 ounces cooked shrimp, cut in pieces

Base

• 4 tablespoons butter
• ⅓ cup green onions, chopped
• ⅓ cup celery, chopped
• 2 cups milk
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 3 tablespoons flour

Seasonings

• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation Steps

1. In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add chopped celery and green onions. Cook until softened, about 3–5 minutes.
2. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
3. In a separate pot or microwave-safe container, warm the milk. Slowly whisk the warm milk into the roux until smooth.
4. Add tomato paste, Old Bay Seasoning, salt, pepper, and heavy cream. Stir well and reduce heat to medium-low.
5. Simmer until the bisque thickens slightly, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the cooked shrimp and crab meat. Stir gently and heat through for about 3–5 minutes.
7. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot.

Health Benefits

• Crab and shrimp are rich in lean protein, vitamins B12 and D, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Celery and green onions add fiber and antioxidants.
• Old Bay Seasoning offers bold flavor without added fat or calories.
• Homemade bisque lets you control sodium and cream levels for a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a starter for a seafood-themed dinner or as a main with crusty bread.
• Pair with a green salad and a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
• Add oyster crackers or a drizzle of chili oil for texture and kick.

Creative Variations

• Lobster Bisque: Swap shrimp and crab for cooked lobster meat.
• Cajun Style: Add diced bell peppers and Cajun seasoning for a spicier twist.
• Roasted Garlic Infusion: Add roasted garlic for deep, savory flavor.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and a plant-based butter alternative.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently over low heat to avoid curdling the cream.
• Do not boil after adding seafood to preserve texture.
• Freeze without seafood for up to 2 months; add fresh seafood when reheating.

Pro Tips

• Warm the milk before adding to the roux to prevent lumps.
• Use fresh lump crab and deveined shrimp for best texture.
• Don’t skip the tomato paste—it adds color and depth.
• Stir constantly while thickening to prevent scorching.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use canned crab or frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, canned crab and thawed frozen shrimp work well. Drain thoroughly before adding.

Q: Can this be made ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare the base ahead and add seafood just before serving for best texture.

Q: How do I make it thicker or thinner?
A: For a thicker bisque, simmer longer or add more flour. For thinner, add more milk or broth.

This Creamy Crab & Shrimp Bisque is elegant yet easy—a rich, hearty seafood soup that feels like a special occasion in every spoonful.

Print