Description

There’s something luxurious about the creamy, rich flavors of this Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque. It’s the perfect dish to warm up on a chilly evening or to impress your guests with a restaurant-quality meal. This bisque is simple to make, yet bursting with the delicate flavors of fresh seafood, herbs, and a silky base.

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Ingredients

Scale

To make this bisque, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 tablespoons butter: For sautéing and flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and prevents butter from burning.
1 medium onion, finely chopped: For a base of sweetness and depth.
2 garlic cloves, minced: For a boost of aromatic flavor.
1 carrot, finely diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
1 celery stalk, finely diced: Balances the flavors with a touch of earthiness.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: To thicken the bisque.
4 cups seafood or chicken broth: Provides a flavorful base.
1 cup heavy cream: For that luxurious, creamy texture.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a warm, smoky depth.
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: Enhances the seafood flavors.
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a slight kick of heat.
8 oz cooked crab meat: Sweet and tender, the star of the dish.
8 oz cooked shrimp, peeled and chopped: Adds a delicate, briny flavor.
Salt and pepper, to taste: To bring all the flavors together.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, bright finish.

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat.
Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Create the Base

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat.
Gradually add the seafood or chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender (or transferring the soup to a regular blender in batches), blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Add Cream and Seasonings

Stir in the heavy cream, smoked paprika, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if using). Simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Add the Seafood

Gently fold in the crab meat and shrimp. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

Use Fresh Seafood: Fresh crab and shrimp elevate the flavors, but frozen works well in a pinch.
Make It Ahead: Prepare the bisque a day in advance for even deeper flavors; just reheat gently before serving.
Add Extra Flavor: A splash of lemon juice brightens the bisque just before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American