The Best Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque Recipe You'll Adore

Delight in The Best Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque, a quick and luxurious meal that combines elegance and comfort.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: Soups

Cuisine: Seafood

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Base

2 Tbsp Unsalted Butter Adds richness and flavor to the base. Use olive oil for a lighter version.
1/3 C Celery, chopped Provides aromatic depth. No direct substitute, but fennel can be used for a unique flavor.
1/3 C Green Onions, chopped Enhances freshness and color. Regular onions can replace them; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3 Tbsp Flour Acts as a thickening agent for the bisque. Gluten-free flour can replace all-purpose flour if needed.

For the Creamy Mix

1.5 C Heavy Whipping Cream Creates a rich, creamy texture. Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter bisque, but the texture may vary.
2 C Whole Milk Balances the creaminess. Skim milk can be used for fewer calories, though it will be less rich.
1 Tbsp Tomato Paste Adds depth and a hint of acidity. Substitute with 1/4 cup of crushed tomatoes for a different flavor profile.

For the Seafood

8 oz Cooked Shrimp Main protein source, sweet and tender. Can be replaced with lobsters for a luxe version.
8 oz Crab Meat Provides the signature briny flavor of the bisque. Imitation crab can be used for a budget-friendly option.

For Seasoning

1 tsp Old Bay Seasoning Elevates the seafood flavor. Use a seafood seasoning mix if Old Bay isn't available.
Salt and Pepper For seasoning to taste. Adjust according to preference.

Equipment

Heavy-bottomed pot

Method

Directions

In a heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter over medium heat until it's bubbly and foamy, around 2-3 minutes.
Add chopped celery and green onions to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Stir in flour, mixing continuously for about a minute until lightly golden.
Warm the milk in the microwave for 60-90 seconds, then gradually whisk it into the pot until smooth.
Pour in heavy whipping cream, tomato paste, Old Bay seasoning, and salt and pepper. Stir and bring to a low simmer.
Continue to stir the bisque while it simmers for about 5 minutes to thicken.
Gently fold in cooked shrimp and crab meat, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Ladle into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley or chives, and serve with crusty sourdough.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 22gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Use high-quality seafood for best results. Avoid overcooking shrimp to maintain tenderness. Reheat leftovers on low heat to preserve creaminess.

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