If you’re craving a rich, creamy, and indulgent seafood bisque, this Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is the perfect recipe. This velvety soup is packed with the delicate sweetness of crab and the tender bite of shrimp, making it a restaurant-quality dish you can easily prepare at home. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main course, this bisque is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Rich and Creamy Texture – The perfect balance of cream, butter, and seafood stock creates a silky consistency.
✅ Loaded with Seafood – Featuring both crab and shrimp for a decadent seafood experience.
✅ Restaurant-Quality at Home – Impress your guests with a gourmet dish made in your own kitchen.
✅ Perfect for Special Occasions – This bisque makes an elegant starter for holiday meals or date nights.
Ingredients
For the bisque:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb crab meat
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups seafood stock (or chicken stock)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Croutons or fresh bread for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
Step 2: Make the Base
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the seafood stock, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Pour in the white wine (if using) and let it simmer for 5 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
Step 3: Cook the Seafood
- Add the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque. Stir in the crab meat and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Dairy
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk. Stir well to combine. Simmer for another 5 minutes without boiling.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Stir in the lemon juice and fresh parsley. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with croutons or fresh bread. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 24g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 680mg |
| Sugar | 3g |
Tips for the Best Seafood Bisque
Use Fresh or High-Quality Seafood – The best bisque starts with premium shrimp and crab.
Blend for Extra Creaminess – For an ultra-smooth texture, blend half the bisque before adding the seafood.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so cook just until opaque.
Serve with Crusty Bread – A side of warm bread is perfect for soaking up every drop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this bisque ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat to prevent curdling.
Q: Can I substitute the crab or shrimp?
Absolutely! You can use lobster, scallops, or even a mix of seafood.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and milk.
This Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a must-try for seafood lovers. It’s luxurious, packed with flavor, and easy to make at home. Perfect for a cozy night in or an impressive dinner party starter. Give it a try and let us know how you liked it!
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