“Indulgent, Velvety, and Packed with Rich Seafood Flavor!”

This Creamy Crab and Shrimp Bisque is an elegant yet comforting seafood dish that’s as impressive as it is simple to make. Perfect for a special occasion, date night, or a cozy dinner, this bisque delivers a restaurant-quality experience right at home. With succulent shrimp, sweet lump crab meat, and a silky, flavorful broth, it’s indulgence at its finest.

Ingredients

For the Bisque Base:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 4 cups seafood stock (or chicken broth if unavailable)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional, for a classic seafood flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Seafood:

• 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 1/2 pound lump crab meat (fresh or canned, picked through for shells)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, for depth of flavor)

For Garnish (Optional):

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped
• Croutons, toasted bread, or garlic crostini
• Extra shrimp or crab pieces for presentation

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Make the Roux

1. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a light roux.
2. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 3: Build the Broth

1. Slowly pour in the seafood stock, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
2. Stir in smoked paprika, Old Bay seasoning, thyme, cayenne pepper, and salt and black pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add the Seafood

1. Stir in the chopped shrimp and lump crab meat. Simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and white wine (if using) to create a velvety, rich consistency.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt, black pepper, or additional spices.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the bisque into serving bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, chives, or extra shrimp/crab pieces for presentation.
3. Serve hot alongside toasted bread, garlic crostini, or croutons for dipping.

Why You’ll Love This Bisque

• Luxuriously Creamy: A decadent texture perfect for special moments.
• Rich Seafood Flavor: A perfect balance of sweet crab and tender shrimp.
• Simple Yet Impressive: Easy enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for entertaining.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use Quality Stock: Seafood stock enhances the bisque’s flavor, but chicken broth works in a pinch.
• Fresh is Best: Opt for fresh shrimp and crab meat for the most authentic flavor. Frozen seafood works well too—just thaw it first.
• Cook Seafood Gently: Add shrimp and crab at the end to keep them tender and juicy.
• Smooth vs. Chunky Texture: For a smoother bisque, blend the base before adding the seafood.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette.
• Serve alongside toasted sourdough bread, garlic crostini, or buttered rolls.
• Top with a drizzle of heavy cream or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a gourmet presentation.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat Gently: Warm over low heat on the stovetop, stirring often to avoid curdling. Avoid boiling, as it may separate the cream.

Enjoy this decadent Creamy Crab and Shrimp Bisque—a dish that combines the richness of the sea with the comfort of a hearty, homemade meal. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself! 🦀🍤✨