Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

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This creamy crab and shrimp seafood bisque brings comfort and elegance to your table in one cozy bowl. With sweet crab meat and tender shrimp bathed in a rich, velvety broth, it delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary evening into something memorable.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or just craving something soul-warming and savory, this bisque checks every box. The layers of flavor from seafood, cream, aromatics, and a hint of sherry make it feel restaurant-worthy, yet it’s easy enough to pull off on a weeknight.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

This bisque is the perfect balance of indulgence and ease. It brings that fancy seafood restaurant vibe without the hefty price tag or long prep time. Each spoonful is packed with flavor, thanks to the richness of the seafood and a carefully crafted creamy base.

Plus, it’s flexible. You can use fresh, frozen, or canned crab and shrimp, and even tweak the seasonings to match your preference. It’s a delicious way to elevate your dinner routine with something comforting and sophisticated.

What Kind of Seafood Should I Use?

Fresh seafood is always a treat, but this bisque is incredibly forgiving. If you have access to fresh lump crab meat and raw shrimp, that’s ideal. However, frozen or even canned seafood will still produce a bisque that’s deeply satisfying. Just make sure everything is properly thawed and drained to avoid watering down the broth. Choose wild-caught when possible for the best flavor and sustainability.

Ingredients for the Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

To make this bisque shine, each ingredient plays a role in building depth and richness.

• Butter
• Shallots
• Garlic
• Celery
• All-purpose flour
• Seafood stock or chicken broth
• Tomato paste
• Heavy cream
• Dry sherry
• Paprika
• Cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper
• Cooked crab meat
• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Fresh thyme
• Bay leaf

Butter forms the flavor base, helping the shallots, garlic, and celery soften and sweeten. Tomato paste adds umami and a touch of acidity, while flour thickens the bisque. The stock builds a savory depth, balanced by the luxurious cream. Sherry brings brightness, and the spices round it all out.

How To Make the Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped shallots, celery, and garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Base

Stir in tomato paste and flour, mixing until everything is coated. This creates a flavorful roux to thicken the soup.

Step 3: Add the Liquids

Gradually whisk in the seafood stock (or chicken broth). Add the bay leaf and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to let the flavors develop.

Step 4: Blend and Simmer

Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprig, then use an immersion blender to blend until smooth. Stir in heavy cream and dry sherry. Season with paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for another 10 minutes.

Step 5: Add Seafood

Add the shrimp and crab meat to the bisque. Simmer just until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with extra crab meat, a drizzle of cream, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

This bisque is rich enough to stand alone but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. It feeds four generous portions or six smaller servings, making it a great option for a cozy dinner or small gathering.

To store, let it cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent curdling. For freezing, skip adding the seafood until reheating, as shrimp and crab can toughen in the freezer.

What to Serve With Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque?

Crusty Artisan Bread

Warm slices of rustic bread are perfect for dipping into this creamy bisque.

Garlic Butter Crostini

Toasted baguette brushed with garlic butter adds a flavorful crunch.

Arugula and Pear Salad

The peppery greens and sweetness of pear balance the richness of the soup.

Roasted Asparagus

A light and simple side that doesn’t overpower the seafood.

Parmesan Crisps

Crunchy and salty, these are a fun garnish or side for textural contrast.

Lemon-Dressed Mixed Greens

A tangy vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess beautifully.

Steamed Artichokes

Dip in garlic butter for a truly indulgent combo.

Mini Crab Cakes

For a seafood lover’s dream, pair with bite-sized crab cakes.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If you’re a fan of comforting soups like this one, you may enjoy these favorites too:

• Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup
• Irresistible Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup
• Zesty Tuscan Artichoke Soup
• Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Avgolemono
• Hearty Vegetarian Tortellini Soup

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If you try this creamy crab and shrimp seafood bisque, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Did you go spicy or keep it mild? Did you use fresh or frozen seafood?

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more warming bowls on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new cozy favorites.

Conclusion

Creamy crab and shrimp seafood bisque is everything you want in a comfort meal: flavorful, rich, satisfying, and easy enough for any home cook to master. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or an elegant dinner, this soup will impress without the stress.

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