Indulge in Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque Delights

Name: Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 1 cup lump crab meat; 1 cup large peeled shrimp; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 bay leaves; 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh); 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Emily Harrison

Posted:

August 5, 2025

Updated:

August 5, 2025

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Crab and shrimp seafood bisque is a luxurious bowl of comfort that will make your taste buds dance. Imagine the rich flavors of tender crab meat swimming in a creamy, velvety broth, mingling with succulent shrimp, all enhanced by aromatic herbs and spices. It’s like a warm hug from the ocean, perfect for cozy nights or special gatherings.

This delightful dish holds a special place in my heart, recalling memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air as we savored every spoonful. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive occasion, this bisque promises to elevate any meal into an extraordinary experience.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This crab and shrimp seafood bisque is surprisingly easy to prepare, allowing you to impress guests without hours in the kitchen
The flavor profile is simply divine, with seafood richness complemented by fragrant herbs
Its creamy texture makes it visually stunning, transforming any dinner table into a culinary masterpiece
Perfect for elegant dinners yet versatile enough for casual family meals

I remember the first time I served this bisque at a dinner party; my friends were convinced I had hired a professional chef.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Crab Meat: Opt for lump crab meat for its sweet flavor and tender texture; canned crab works in a pinch.
Shrimp: Use large, peeled shrimp; they add heartiness and absorb the bisque’s flavors beautifully.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the bisque its rich, luxurious consistency—don’t skimp here!
Chicken Broth: A flavorful base that enhances the seafood without overpowering it; low sodium works best.
Onions and Garlic: These aromatics form the flavor foundation—saute until fragrant for maximum impact.
Tomato Paste: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness that balances the richness of cream and seafood.
Bay Leaves and Thyme: Fresh or dried herbs bring an earthy aroma; they’re essential for flavor complexity.
Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up the bisque, cutting through the creaminess with zesty freshness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop onions and garlic finely to release their potent aromas when sautéed.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter until bubbling. Add onions and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes is perfect.

Add Tomato Paste: Stir in tomato paste, letting it cook for about two minutes until it darkens slightly. This step builds deeper flavors in your bisque.

Pour in Broth: Slowly add chicken broth while scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot—this is where flavor lives! Bring to a gentle simmer.

Add Seafood: Introduce your crab meat and shrimp into the pot. Cook gently until shrimp turns pink and opaque—about 5-7 minutes will do nicely.

Add Cream and Season: Pour in heavy cream along with bay leaves, thyme, and lemon juice. Allow everything to simmer together while stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes.

Now you have a rich and creamy crab and shrimp seafood bisque that’s perfect for savoring on its own or pairing with crusty bread! Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful dish that brings warmth to your soul while making your taste buds sing!

You Must Know

This Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque combines rich flavors with a creamy texture, making it a comforting delight
Aromas of fresh seafood and herbs waft through the air, inviting everyone to the table
It’s perfect for impressing guests or cozy family dinners

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic for a fragrant base, then add your seafood and stock. Simmer gently to blend flavors before stirring in cream for the ultimate richness.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap shrimp for lobster or add extra spices like cayenne for a kick. Fresh herbs like dill can also elevate this bisque and make it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover bisque in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on low heat, stirring gently to maintain that creamy texture without overheating.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve optimal flavor, always use fresh seafood and homemade stock if possible
A splash of sherry or white wine at the end enhances the bisque’s depth
Make sure to blend thoroughly for that silky finish everyone loves!

I still remember the first time I served this bisque; my friends were convinced I had secretly trained with a master chef! Their compliments made my heart swell with pride.

FAQs

FAQ

What is the best seafood for this bisque?

Use fresh crab and shrimp for the best flavor, but feel free to mix in other seafood.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance; just store it properly in the refrigerator.

How do I thicken my bisque if it’s too thin?

Blend in some additional cream or make a roux using butter and flour to achieve creaminess.

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