Get ready to dive into the ultimate bowl of comfort with this Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque. This velvety soup combines tender shrimp, succulent crab, and a luscious blend of cream and spices that will instantly transport you to a seaside bistro, no travel required. Every spoonful is rich, brimming with savory seafood flavor, and has just the right kick of warmth from Old Bay and a hint of cayenne. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this bisque is guaranteed to impress.

Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dish is its commitment to a handful of carefully selected ingredients. Each one has a distinct role to play, whether it’s depth, creaminess, or a pop of color, ensuring the Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is as delicious as it is beautiful.

Butter: Adds a rich, silky base and helps soften the aromatics beautifully.
Olive oil: Keeps the soup light while marrying the flavors of the onion, celery, and garlic.
Onion: Finely chopped for a subtle sweetness and wonderful foundational flavor.
Celery: Brings a hint of earthiness and classic bisque aroma.
Garlic: Introduces a gentle punch and delicious aroma with every spoonful.
Tomato paste: Deepens the bisque’s color while adding a slight tang and extra umami.
All-purpose or almond flour: Creates that essential velvety texture (go with almond for a low-carb twist).
Seafood or chicken stock: Lays down a flavor-packed canvas for all the seafood magic to happen.
Heavy cream: Delivers a luscious, creamy body that brings the bisque together.
Dry white wine: Adds a bright, sophisticated note that lifts the flavors.
Old Bay seasoning: The classic seafood partner, bringing a zesty blend of herbs and spice.
Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who want a subtle, irresistible kick of heat.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing flavors perfectly.
Cooked shrimp (chopped): Stars as one half of your seafood duo, tender and sweet.
Lump crab meat: The luxury element—double check for shells to ensure every bite is perfection.
Fresh parsley: Adds a final touch of color and freshness at serving time.

How to Make Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating up your butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. When the mixture is hot and shimmering, add the finely chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Let them cook gently for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until everything is softened and fragrant. This step is where the magic really starts—with each vegetable infusing its own personality right from the beginning.

Step 2: Build the Bisque Base

Stir in your tomato paste, letting it cook for about a minute to really develop that beautiful deep flavor. Then, sprinkle in your flour (or almond flour if you prefer it low-carb) and cook, stirring constantly, for another minute. This step forms a simple roux, the foundation that will thicken your Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque to that perfect, luscious consistency.

Step 3: Add Stock and Wine

Slowly pour in the seafood or chicken stock, whisking as you go to keep the bisque smooth and free of lumps. Next, add your dry white wine. Bring everything up to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for 5–7 minutes. As it simmers, the soup will begin to thicken and the flavors meld—it’s the ultimate anticipation builder!

Step 4: Creamy Finish and Seasoning

Reduce your heat to low and gently stir in the heavy cream, Old Bay seasoning, a dash of cayenne if you’re feeling adventurous, and the salt and black pepper. Let it all simmer together for another five minutes. This step is where the Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque really transforms, turning silky and aromatic right before your eyes.

Step 5: Add Seafood and Parsley

Now for the grand finale: fold in your cooked, chopped shrimp and luscious lump crab meat. Let them warm through for 3–4 minutes, just enough to soak up all that flavor without overcooking. Finish with a generous tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, stir everything together, and your bisque is officially ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Garnishes

Take your Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque to the next level with a handful of thoughtful garnishes. A sprinkle of fresh parsley never fails to add brightness, while a swirl of cream or a dash of extra Old Bay seasoning is both beautiful and tasty. For an extra elegant touch, consider topping each bowl with a mini heap of lump crab or a whole shrimp.

Side Dishes

This bisque pairs blissfully with warm, crusty bread—perfect for dipping and catching every last creamy drop. If you’re feeling fancy, serve it alongside a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil. It’s also fantastic served over a small scoop of fluffy white rice for a heartier main course.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative and serve your Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque in small espresso cups for an appetizer or as elegant shooters at a party. For family-style dining, ladle it into a rustic soup tureen and let guests help themselves—just don’t forget the fresh herbs and a basket of bread nearby!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque can be cooled quickly and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making every reheat just as delicious as the first bowl.

Freezing

If you need to freeze your bisque, ladle it into freezer-safe containers, leaving enough room for expansion. Freeze for up to two months. Just be aware that cream-based soups can sometimes separate a bit when thawed; a good stir will usually bring it back together.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the bisque gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid bringing it to a boil to maintain its silky texture. Add a splash of cream or stock if needed to refresh the consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp and crab for the bisque?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before using, and check frozen crab meat carefully for any lingering shells.

What wine works best in Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or even Chardonnay works beautifully. Any crisp, not overly sweet white should complement the flavors without overpowering them.

Is it possible to make this bisque dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap the heavy cream with a rich non-dairy alternative like unsweetened coconut cream or oat milk. Just keep in mind that it will slightly change the flavor and texture.

Can I blend the bisque for an ultra-smooth texture?

Definitely! For a super silky bisque, blend everything except the seafood, then stir in the crab and shrimp at the end. This ensures a delightfully smooth base with meaty bites of seafood in every spoonful.

What’s the best way to check the crab meat for shells?

Pour the crab meat out onto a plate and gently run your fingers through it, removing any bits of shell as you go. This quick step ensures that every mouthful of your Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is pure pleasure.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite as comforting or impressive as a homemade Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque. Whether you’re sharing it with friends, serving it up at a special dinner, or treating yourself on a cozy night in, this recipe always delivers. I can’t wait for you to try it—enjoy every decadent spoonful!

Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque Recipe

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4.5 from 16 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and luxurious flavors of this Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque. This velvety bisque is a delightful combination of tender shrimp, succulent crab meat, and aromatic seasonings, all swimming in a luscious creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or to impress guests at a dinner party.

Ingredients

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For the Bisque:

1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup finely chopped onion
½ cup finely chopped celery
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or almond flour for low-carb)
3 cups seafood or chicken stock
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup dry white wine
½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Additional Ingredients:

8 oz cooked shrimp (chopped)
6 oz lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add Flavor Base: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for another minute to form a roux.
Develop Broth: Slowly whisk in the seafood or chicken stock, followed by the white wine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes, until slightly thickened.
Finish Bisque: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Old Bay seasoning, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer gently for 5 more minutes.
Add Seafood: Add the shrimp and crab meat, and cook until heated through, about 3–4 minutes.
Final Touch: Stir in fresh parsley and serve hot.