Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

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If you’re craving something warm, velvety, and decadent, this Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is the ultimate comfort dish. It combines the sweetness of crab meat, the tender bite of shrimp, and a rich, creamy broth infused with herbs, garlic, and just the right touch of spice. Whether you’re serving this on a cozy weeknight or as a holiday appetizer, this bisque delivers restaurant-quality flavor with homemade heart.

This bisque is designed to warm your soul while treating your tastebuds to something indulgent. It pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread or a simple green salad. And thanks to its quick prep time, you’ll have a gourmet dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.

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What Kind of Seafood Should I Use?

When making bisque, the quality of your seafood makes all the difference. For this recipe, you’ll want to use cooked lump crab meat and raw shrimp. Frozen shrimp works just as well as fresh—just ensure it’s peeled and deveined. As for crab, stick with real crab meat (lump or claw) for that authentic sweetness. Avoid imitation crab for this one—it won’t deliver the same depth or texture.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

• Shrimp: Tender and sweet, shrimp adds that classic seafood bisque bite.
• Lump Crab Meat: Provides the richness and depth that defines this bisque.
• Butter: The base of the roux for richness and body.
• Garlic & Onion: Aromatics that layer in essential flavor.
• Old Bay Seasoning: A seafood staple, it brings warmth and savory depth.
• Cayenne Pepper: Adds a subtle kick to balance the creaminess.
• White Wine: Brightens and enhances the seafood.
• Tomato Paste: Deepens the color and flavor of the broth.
• Seafood or Chicken Stock: Provides a flavorful foundation.
• Heavy Cream: The star that transforms broth into a silky bisque.
• Fresh Parsley: For brightness and a finishing touch.

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How To Make the Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Step 1: Saute Aromatics

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

Add tomato paste, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper. Stir until the paste darkens slightly and coats the aromatics.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes. Add seafood or chicken stock and bring to a light boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender (or regular blender in batches), blend the soup base until smooth. This gives it that signature bisque texture.

Step 5: Add Seafood and Cream

Lower heat to medium-low. Stir in heavy cream, shrimp, and crab meat. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, or until shrimp is cooked through and bisque is heated.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Stir in chopped fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.

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How to Serve and Store Your Bisque

This bisque shines brightest when served piping hot in a shallow bowl, garnished with fresh herbs and accompanied by toasted baguette slices or oyster crackers. For entertaining, you can serve it in small ramekins as a rich starter.

To store leftovers, cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve the creaminess. Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy content.

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What to Serve With Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque?

Crusty Artisan Bread

Perfect for dipping and soaking up every drop.

Garlic Butter Green Beans

A light and flavorful veggie to balance the richness.

Roasted Parmesan Asparagus

Brings texture and a salty, nutty contrast.

Caesar Salad

Crisp and tangy—a timeless pairing with creamy dishes.

White Wine (Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)

Enhances the flavors of the seafood without overpowering.

Baked Potatoes with Chives

Comforting and hearty to complete the meal.

Lemon Dill Rice Pilaf

A zesty and herby rice option for something different.

Classic Cornbread Muffins

Slightly sweet and a Southern twist on the side.

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Want More Seafood Dinner Ideas?

If this creamy seafood bisque warmed your heart, here are more cozy and creative seafood dishes to try next:

• Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo: Creamy, Comforting and Crave-Worthy
• One-Pan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo: For Busy Weeknights
• Creamy Marry Me Shrimp Pasta: Date Night Perfection
• Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Asparagus and Creamy Garlic Sauce
• 15-Minute Lemon Garlic Salmon: A Healthy Quick Dinner

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the cayenne or keep it mild? Did you serve it in a bread bowl or keep it classic?

I love seeing how others customize this bisque. Questions are always welcome—let’s keep cooking and learning together.

Explore more creamy soups, seafood specials, and cozy dinner ideas on ChefAlchemy’s Pinterest.

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