Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque: A Restaurant-Quality Dish Made at Home

If you’re craving something indulgent yet comforting, this Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is the answer. Perfectly balanced between rich and light, this dish combines tender shrimp, delicate lump crab meat, and a silky, aromatic broth. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner at home or an elegant starter for a special occasion, this seafood bisque will impress everyone at the table.

Jump to Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Restaurant-Quality at Home: Enjoy a luxurious, creamy seafood bisque without the hefty restaurant price tag.
Easy to Make: Though it sounds fancy, this bisque comes together in under an hour with simple, fresh ingredients.
Customizable: Add your favorite seafood, adjust the spice level, or substitute sherry with white wine for a personal touch.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether served as a main dish with crusty bread or as an elegant appetizer, this bisque fits any setting.

A Classic Dish with a Rich History

Bisque, a French culinary classic, is known for its creamy texture and robust flavor. Traditionally made with shellfish, bisque originated as a way to use every part of the seafood, with shells adding depth to the broth. This modern recipe keeps the tradition alive while simplifying the process, focusing on the natural flavors of crab and shrimp.

This version incorporates the delicate sweetness of lump crab meat and succulent shrimp, enhanced with aromatics and a hint of dry sherry for sophistication. With every spoonful, you’ll taste the care and tradition behind this dish.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Seafood Bisque

Ingredients You’ll Need

1/2 lb fresh or canned lump crab meat
1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, finely chopped
1 large carrot, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup dry sherry
4 cups seafood stock or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by finely chopping the onion, celery, and carrot. These aromatics form the flavorful base of the bisque.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is lightly browned. This step thickens the bisque while adding a nutty flavor.

Step 4: Add the Sherry and Stock

Deglaze the pot by slowly pouring in the sherry. Stir and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Gradually add the seafood stock or chicken broth, stirring continuously for a smooth consistency. Add the bay leaf and Old Bay seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Blend the Bisque

Remove the bay leaf and carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches, or use an immersion blender to puree it until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat.

Step 6: Add the Seafood and Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and bring the bisque to a gentle simmer. Add the shrimp and cook for 3-5 minutes until pink and opaque. Gently fold in the crab meat, being careful not to break it up too much. Heat through for 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. For an extra touch, sprinkle with additional Old Bay seasoning or drizzle with a bit of cream. Serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Seafood Bisque

Use Fresh Seafood: Fresh lump crab meat and shrimp elevate the flavor of this bisque. If using canned crab, be sure to drain it well.
Don’t Skip the Sherry: Sherry adds a subtle sweetness and depth. If unavailable, white wine or dry vermouth can be substituted.
Blend Carefully: For a silky texture, blend the soup until completely smooth. If you prefer a bit of texture, leave some chunks of vegetables unblended.
Enhance with Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of paprika, a drizzle of olive oil, or a few extra shrimp on top for a beautiful presentation.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

This Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is the epitome of comfort food elegance. Its creamy, velvety texture and rich seafood flavor make it a standout dish for holidays, dinner parties, or even a cozy night in. Pair it with a crisp green salad or a warm loaf of sourdough bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home. With its luxurious flavor and beautiful presentation, this bisque is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.