Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque Recipe

If you’re a seafood lover, this Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a must-try! Creamy, rich, and full of delicious seafood flavors, this bisque is perfect for a cozy dinner or an elegant appetizer. Made with tender shrimp, succulent crab meat, and a velvety broth, this bisque will warm your soul with every spoonful.

Ingredients

For the Bisque:

• 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 1/2 pound lump crab meat
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 small carrot, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups seafood or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of half a lemon

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrot. Sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to enhance its depth of flavor.

Step 2: Make the Roux

4. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually pour in the broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Add the bay leaf, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
7. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Blend the Base (Optional)

8. For a smoother bisque, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, skip this step.

Step 4: Add the Seafood

9. Stir in the heavy cream, milk, and white wine (if using). Simmer for 5 more minutes.
10. Add the shrimp and crab meat, cooking until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.
11. Remove the bay leaf and stir in the lemon juice for a bright finishing touch.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

12. Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
13. Serve warm with crusty bread or oyster crackers.

Tips for the Best Bisque

• Use fresh seafood for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp and canned crab can also work in a pinch.
• Don’t overcook the seafood—shrimp cooks quickly and will become rubbery if left too long.
• For extra richness, add a splash of sherry or cognac before serving.
• Customize the spice level by adjusting the cayenne and Old Bay seasoning to your taste.

Watch Recipe Video

Final Thoughts

This Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a restaurant-quality dish made right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or a main course, it’s sure to impress! Try it today and savor the creamy, seafood-packed goodness. 🦀🍤