Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

by

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Seafood

  1. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the shrimp and season with Old Bay, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink.
  3. Stir in the crab meat and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Bisque Base

  1. In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion, celery, and garlic, and sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until softened.
  3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.

Step 3: Build the Flavor

  1. Gradually whisk in the seafood stock and white wine (if using), ensuring no lumps form.
  2. Add the tomato paste, paprika, cayenne pepper, and thyme, stirring to combine.

Step 4: Simmer

  1. Bring the bisque to a gentle simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the broth to slightly thicken.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Seafood

  1. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.
  2. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and crab meat, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

  1. Taste the bisque and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or cayenne, if desired.

Step 7: Serve

  1. Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
  2. Serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers on the side for dipping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Luxuriously Creamy: A rich, velvety texture that feels indulgent.
  • Packed with Seafood: Every spoonful bursts with tender shrimp and crab meat.
  • Perfectly Seasoned: Layers of flavor from Old Bay, thyme, and paprika.

Pro Tips for Success

  1. Fresh is Best: Use fresh seafood for optimal flavor, but frozen or canned works in a pinch.
  2. Blender Option: For a smoother texture, blend half the bisque before adding the seafood.
  3. Make Ahead: Prepare the bisque base a day ahead and add the seafood when reheating.

Storage

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
  • Freeze: Freeze the bisque without the cream for up to 3 months. Add the cream when reheating.

This Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a comforting bowl of ocean-inspired flavors, perfect for warming up your evenings. Serve it up and let the indulgent, creamy goodness transport you to the coast! 🦀🍤✨

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