This rich and creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque offers a luxurious blend of tender crab meat and succulent shrimp, enveloped in a velvety, flavorful broth. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting meal, this bisque is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Decadent Flavor: The combination of crab and shrimp creates a sweet, savory profile that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
Creamy Texture: Heavy cream and milk provide a luscious, smooth consistency that coats the palate beautifully.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, this bisque is ideal for a weeknight treat or a weekend dinner party.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a starter or pair with crusty bread for a hearty main course.
Elegant Presentation: Garnished with fresh herbs, this bisque makes for an impressive dish to serve guests.

Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Ingredients

For the Bisque:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons green onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons celery, finely chopped
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2½ cups milk
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 cup heavy whipping cream
8 ounces crab meat
4 to 8 ounces small cooked shrimp or other seafood
2 tablespoons sherry wine

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped green onion and celery, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
Make Roux: Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, forming a roux.
Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring to a simmer.
Incorporate Cream and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, heavy cream, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Add Seafood: Gently fold in the crab meat and shrimp. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
Finish with Sherry: Stir in the sherry wine and cook for 2 more minutes.
Serve: Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate thyme or dill for added aromatic flavor.
Vegetable Addition: Include finely chopped carrots or leeks for extra texture and taste.
Low-Carb Option: Replace flour with a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This bisque can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, ensure the seafood is thawed and drained before adding to the bisque.

Is it necessary to use sherry?

While sherry adds depth of flavor, it can be omitted if preferred.

Can I make this bisque ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the bisque and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.

How do I prevent the seafood from overcooking?

Add the seafood towards the end of the cooking process and heat through gently.

Can I use other seafood?

Yes, lobster, scallops, or a mix of seafood can be used in place of crab and shrimp.

How do I thicken the bisque?

The roux and cream provide thickness. If a thicker consistency is desired, simmer longer to reduce, or add a slurry of flour and water.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Whole milk is recommended for creaminess, but 2% milk can be used for a lighter version.

How do I store the bisque?

Allow the bisque to cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container.

Can I serve this bisque cold?

Traditionally served hot, but it can be enjoyed chilled for a different experience.

What bread pairs well with bisque?

Crusty baguette or garlic bread complements the bisque perfectly.

Conclusion

This Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of seafood with a rich, creamy broth. Whether serving as an elegant appetizer or a main course, it’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.