Crab and shrimp seafood bisque is a creamy, rich dish that encapsulates the essence of coastal cuisine. I remember the first time I savored this delicious bisque; it was an unassuming evening, yet the flavors transported me to a vibrant seaside restaurant. This recipe combines the sweetness of crab meat and tender shrimp in a velvety broth, perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging yourself. Whether it’s a chilly night or a special occasion, this bisque is sure to impress.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to try making this crab and shrimp seafood bisque at home. For one, it’s surprisingly quick to prepare while feeling luxurious on the palate. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gathering around the table with family, this bisque can elevate any meal.
Not only is it a fantastic way to showcase fresh seafood, but it’s also an affordable dish that can feed a crowd without breaking the bank. Plus, every cozy spoonful is packed with flavor, leaving everyone craving more.
"This bisque was a showstopper at our dinner party! Rich and creamy with just the right amount of seafood flavor. I can’t wait to make it again!" — Sarah J.
The cooking process explained
Preparing crab and shrimp seafood bisque is a delightful experience that combines sauteing, whisking, and simmering. You’ll start by gently softening vegetables in butter before gradually adding milk to create a creamy base. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, this bisque comes together beautifully in under 30 minutes.
Gather these items for a delicious bisque that will impress your family and guests alike.
What you’ll need
To prepare your crab and shrimp seafood bisque, here’s the ingredient list you’ll need:
- 4 Tbsp. Butter
- ⅓ C. Celery, chopped
- ⅓ C. Green onions, chopped
- 1 ½ C. Heavy whipping cream
- 2 C. Whole milk
- 3 Tbsp. Flour
- 1 Tbsp. Tomato paste
- 8 oz. Cooked shrimp, cut into pieces
- 8 oz. Crab meat
- 1 tsp. Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions: If you’re in a pinch, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, swap seafood for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth.
Step-by-step instructions
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped celery and green onions, sautéing until they start to soften.
- Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to create a roux.
- Warm the milk in the microwave, then pour it into the saucepan, whisking until smooth.
- Incorporate the heavy whipping cream, tomato paste, Old Bay seasoning, and salt and pepper.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the bisque thickens.
- Stir in the shrimp and crab meat, cooking until heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve your crab and shrimp seafood bisque in elegant bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a crisp salad. If you’re feeling ambitious, consider adding a side of cheesy garlic bread to soak up the luxurious broth.
A chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio, makes for the perfect beverage pairing, enhancing the seafood flavors beautifully.
How to store
To keep your leftovers fresh, store the bisque in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to make it ahead of time, the flavors actually deepen after a day or two!
For longer storage, consider freezing the bisque before adding the seafood. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw and heat, then stir in the shrimp and crab. Always ensure your seafood is cooked through to a safe temperature for ideal food safety.
Helpful cooking tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, don’t hesitate to add a splash of sherry or white wine when sautéing the vegetables.
- Make sure to whisk vigorously when adding the milk and cream to avoid lumps.
- Taste your bisque during cooking and adjust seasoning to your liking—everyone’s palate is different!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Try adding other seafood varieties like scallops or mussels for a mixed seafood bisque. You could also infuse the bisque with a hint of spice by adding crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne for an unexpected kick.
Experimenting with herbs is another way to keep things fresh; dill, thyme, or tarragon can impart a beautiful complexity to the dish.
Common questions
How long does this bisque take to prepare?
This delicious crab and shrimp seafood bisque takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making the bisque a day in advance enhances its flavors. Store it in the fridge and gently reheat before serving.
What can I serve with bisque?
This bisque pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or even a light pasta dish for smaller servings. Don’t forget a refreshing white wine to elevate the experience!
Print
Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A creamy, rich dish that captures the essence of coastal cuisine with sweet crab meat and tender shrimp in a velvety broth.
Ingredients
- 4 Tbsp. Butter
- ⅓ C. Celery, chopped
- ⅓ C. Green onions, chopped
- 1 ½ C. Heavy whipping cream
- 2 C. Whole milk
- 3 Tbsp. Flour
- 1 Tbsp. Tomato paste
- 8 oz. Cooked shrimp, cut into pieces
- 8 oz. Crab meat
- 1 tsp. Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped celery and green onions, sautéing until they start to soften.
- Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to create a roux.
- Warm the milk in the microwave, then pour it into the saucepan, whisking until smooth.
- Incorporate the heavy whipping cream, tomato paste, Old Bay seasoning, and salt and pepper.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the bisque thickens.
- Stir in the shrimp and crab meat, cooking until heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For lighter bisque, replace heavy cream with half-and-half. Consider adding other seafood or spices for an adventurous twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg