The Best Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque Recipe in 30 Minutes

The Best Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque captures cozy dining experiences, perfect for beginners, and ready in just 30 minutes.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: Soups

Cuisine: Seafood

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Base

4 Tbsp Butter Adds richness and flavor; essential for sautéing.
½ C Celery chopped Provides a subtle sweetness and crunch to the bisque.
½ C Green onions chopped Offers a fresh, sharp flavor that brightens the dish.

For the Creamy Mixture

1 ½ C Heavy whipping cream Creates the bisque’s luxurious texture; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
2 C Whole milk Adds extra creaminess; warm it before adding to avoid clumping.
3 Tbsp Flour Acts as a thickening agent for that perfect, velvety consistency.
1 Tbsp Tomato paste Enhances color and provides depth with a hint of acidity.

For the Seafood

8 oz Cooked shrimp cut into pieces The main protein; opt for medium or large for best results.
8 oz Crab meat Delivers that sweet, briny flavor characteristic of the best crab and shrimp seafood bisque.

For Flavoring

1 tsp Old Bay seasoning A key seasoning that elevates the seafood flavors; can substitute with crab seasoning if needed.
Salt and pepper to taste Essential for enhancing all the delicious flavors.

Equipment

Heavy-bottomed pot

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

In a heavy-bottomed pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add ½ cup of chopped celery and ½ cup of chopped green onions. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Once the aromatics are tender, sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of flour, stirring continuously for about 1 minute to avoid raw flour taste.
Warm 2 cups of whole milk in the microwave for 60-90 seconds. Gradually whisk it into the pot until combined. Stir in 1 ½ cups of heavy whipping cream.
Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until it begins to simmer gently, about 5-7 minutes.
Gently fold in 8 ounces of cooked shrimp cut into pieces and 8 ounces of crab meat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Ladle the Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 20gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Always warm your milk before adding it to prevent clumps. Stir the bisque regularly while it simmers to avoid sticking.

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