Seafood lovers, this one’s a huge YAY. This Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque feels elegant enough for celebrations but simple enough for a relaxing night at home. A classic roux creates a beautifully thick base, and the combination of milk and cream brings a smooth, velvety texture. The seafood stock deepens the flavor, while plump shrimp, sweet crab, and warm spices tie everything together. Every spoonful feels like a cozy escape to the coast.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped | 1/2 lb |
| Lump crab meat, shells removed | 1/2 lb |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Small onion, finely chopped | 1 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 2 |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Seafood stock (or chicken stock) | 2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Whole milk | 1/2 cup |
| Dry white wine (optional) | 1/4 cup |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Old Bay seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Smoked paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt and freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) | 1 tablespoon |
| Hot sauce (optional) | Dash |
Seafood stock enhances the depth of flavor, wine adds brightness, and lump crab brings a luxurious sweetness to the bisque.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the flour and whisk continuously for about a minute to form a smooth roux.
- Slowly pour in the seafood stock and wine, whisking until the mixture is smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the tomato paste, heavy cream, and milk. Add Old Bay, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes so the flavors develop.
- Add the shrimp and crab meat. Simmer for 5–6 minutes, or just until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add a little hot sauce if you want extra heat. Serve warm, topped with parsley.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate for up to 3 days in a sealed container. Reheat slowly over low heat to maintain creaminess. Freezing isn’t ideal, as the dairy may separate, but the flavor remains excellent.
Tips
Blend the base with an immersion blender before adding seafood for a smoother consistency.
Fresh crab elevates the final flavor dramatically.
Serve with warm crusty bread for soaking up the creamy broth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead? Yes—the base can be cooked a day in advance. Add shrimp and crab right before serving.
Can I lighten it up? Swap in half-and-half and reduce the butter slightly.
Can I add lobster? Absolutely—lobster meat takes this bisque to another level.
Estimated Nutrition: ~320 kcal per serving (approximate).
This Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is coastal comfort at its absolute best—rich, memorable, and always a YAY.
