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A rich crab and shrimp bisque served in a white bowl

Quick way to grow Rich Crab and Shrimp Bisque

This rich crab and shrimp bisque is a decadent and flavorful soup, perfect for a special occasion or a comforting meal. It's surprisingly easy to make and delivers a luxurious culinary experience.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Dutch oven
  • whisk

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 stalk celery, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 canned crushed tomatoes (14.5 ounce can)
  • 1 cup half-and-half
  • 8 ounces lump crab meat
  • 8 ounces small shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp dry sherry
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Cook the aromatics and make the roux

  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes to create a roux.

Simmer the bisque base

  • Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, then add the canned crushed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add seafood and dairy

  • Stir in the half-and-half, lump crab meat, and small shrimp. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.

Finish and serve

  • Remove from heat and stir in the dry sherry. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For an even richer flavor, you can use a combination of seafood broth and chicken broth. Adjust the amount of sherry to your preference, or omit it if you prefer an alcohol-free bisque. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.