Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
This Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a quick and satisfying creamy seafood soup packed with fresh crab and shrimp, delivering rich flavors and a velvety texture. Ready in under 30 minutes, it makes a perfect appetizer, main dish, or comforting lunch, impressing guests with its elegant yet simple preparation.
- Author: James
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Sautéing and Simmering
- Cuisine: American Seafood
- Diet: Gluten Free
Seafood
- 8 oz fresh crab meat
- 8 oz shrimp, peeled and chopped
Base Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Liquids & Dairy
- 4 cups seafood stock or broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Spices & Herbs
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (for garnish)
- Sauté Aromatics: Begin by melting butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and garlic, cooking them slowly until softened and fragrant to build a flavorful foundation.
- Build the Base: Stir in tomato paste and cook for a couple of minutes until it caramelizes slightly, then sprinkle in flour. Stir constantly to avoid lumps and cook for another minute to create a roux.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Gradually whisk in seafood stock or broth, blending everything smoothly. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it thicken for about 10 minutes to develop flavor.
- Incorporate Seafood and Seasoning: Add fresh crab meat and chopped shrimp to the pot. Season with cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat through gently for 3-5 minutes until seafood is cooked but still tender.
- Finish with Cream and Herbs: Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in heavy cream for a velvety texture. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley or your preferred herb before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh crab and shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Add seafood late in cooking to avoid overcooking and keep it tender.
- Stir flour thoroughly when making the roux to prevent lumps.
- Simmer gently to preserve delicate flavors and avoid curdling cream.
- Adjust seasoning gradually by tasting as you go for a balanced bisque.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg
Keywords: crab bisque, shrimp bisque, seafood soup, creamy bisque, quick seafood recipe, easy seafood soup