This Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a rich, creamy, and luxurious dish that’s packed with the flavors of the sea. Combining tender crab meat, succulent shrimp, and a velvety tomato-based broth infused with herbs and spices, this bisque is pure comfort in a bowl. Perfect for special occasions, cozy dinners, or impressing guests, this recipe is a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make. Don’t lose this one—it’s a keeper!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent & Flavorful: A perfect balance of sweet seafood, savory spices, and creamy texture.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, yet feels like a restaurant-quality meal.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite seafood or add a splash of sherry for extra depth.
- Comfort Food Elevated: Perfect for warming up on chilly nights or celebrating special moments.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Bisque:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra flavor)
- 4 cups seafood or chicken stock
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 lb fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Optional: Crusty bread or oyster crackers for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the onion and celery, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Make the Base
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the seafood or chicken stock to avoid lumps, then add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), bay leaf, smoked paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

