How to Make Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
This bisque comes together in a few simple steps, creating a silky, flavorful dish that is both comforting and elegant.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrot, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Make the Base
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to deepen the flavor. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which will help thicken the bisque.
Step 3: Add the Liquids
Slowly pour in the seafood stock, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add the sherry or white wine, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to develop the flavors.
Step 4: Blend for a Smooth Texture
Remove the bay leaf, then use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, carefully blend in batches and return the soup to the pot.
Step 5: Add the Seafood
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and milk. Gently fold in the shrimp and crab meat, allowing them to cook in the warm bisque for 5-7 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve
Taste the bisque and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with toasted bread or crackers.
How Long to Cook Seafood Bisque
Cooking seafood bisque requires careful timing to ensure the flavors develop fully while keeping the seafood tender and delicious. Here’s a breakdown of cooking times:
- Sautéing the Aromatics – 5-7 minutes, until softened.
- Simmering the Base – 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Cooking the Seafood – 5-7 minutes, just until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
Be mindful not to overcook the shrimp and crab, as they can become rubbery. The gentle heat of the bisque will continue cooking the seafood even after removing it from the stove.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftover bisque, follow these storage tips to keep it fresh and flavorful:
- Refrigerator – Store the bisque in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the dairy to separate.
- Freezer – Because of the heavy cream, freezing is not recommended, as it can cause the bisque to become grainy. If you must freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 1 month and reheat slowly, whisking to restore its creamy consistency.
Tips for Perfect Seafood Bisque
Follow these helpful tips to achieve a rich and velvety seafood bisque every time:
- Use Fresh or High-Quality Seafood – Fresh shrimp and crab will enhance the flavor, but frozen seafood works well too. Just ensure it’s properly thawed and drained before adding.
- Blend for a Silky Texture – A well-blended bisque creates a smooth and creamy consistency. An immersion blender is the easiest method, but a standard blender can also work in batches.
- Don’t Overcook the Seafood – Add shrimp and crab at the end of cooking and allow the residual heat to finish cooking them perfectly.
- Enhance Flavor with Sherry – A splash of dry sherry or white wine adds depth and complexity to the bisque.
- Serve with the Right Pairings – Enjoy the bisque with crusty bread, oyster crackers, or a light salad for a complete meal.
Save this recipe for your next special dinner and enjoy a luxurious, restaurant-quality bisque at home.
