Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Rich, velvety, and brimming with seafood flavor, this Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a luxurious dish perfect for special occasions or cozy evenings at home. Loaded with tender crab meat, vegetables, cream, and sherry, it’s a restaurant-worthy bisque you can make right in your own kitchen. Whether you serve it as a starter or a main course, this recipe is sure to impress.

If you enjoyed our Creamy Lobster Soup or Shrimp Chowder, you’ll fall in love with this classic bisque—elegant, hearty, and full of coastal charm.

What is Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque?

Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a creamy soup made with seafood broth, vegetables, cream, and sherry. This version features sweet crab meat, tender potatoes, and carrots, all gently simmered in a rich broth for deep flavor. As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this comforting bisque will warm both hearts and bellies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Here’s why this bisque is a standout:

• Creamy and luxurious: Perfectly smooth with a touch of cream and sherry.
• Flexible ingredients: Swap crab for lobster, shrimp, or clams.
• Impressive but easy: Fancy enough for guests, simple enough for weeknights.

This seafood bisque is the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make.

How to Make Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Quick Overview

This bisque combines sautéed vegetables, a roux-thickened broth, and creamy seafood flavors for a comforting and elegant soup.

Ingredients:

• 6 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 1/2 medium onions, chopped
• 2 1/2 cups potatoes, diced
• 6 tablespoons carrot, cut into ribbons or thin slices
• 1 can CAMPBELL’S® 30% less sodium seafood broth
• 1 tablespoon whipping cream
• 1/2 cup sherry
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 3 cans of refrigerated pasteurized crab meat (or substitute with shrimp or lobster)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add onions, potatoes, and carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes until tender. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
2. Make the Roux: In the same saucepan, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter. Add flour and whisk constantly over medium heat until it turns golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Broth: Slowly pour in the seafood broth while whisking to create a smooth, lump-free base.
4. Simmer: Return the cooked vegetables to the pot. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Finish the Bisque: Add cream, sherry, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and crab meat. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.

What to Serve with Seafood Bisque

Pair this bisque with crusty French bread, oyster crackers, or a fresh green salad. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay.

Top Tips for Perfect Bisque

• Don’t rush the roux: Take your time whisking it to a golden color for rich flavor.
• Use quality seafood: Fresh or refrigerated pasteurized crab meat gives the best taste.
• Cream last: Add cream at the end to prevent curdling.
• Customize it: Swap in shrimp, lobster, or even clams for the crab.
• Blend for smoothness: For a smoother bisque, blend part or all of the soup before adding seafood.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling once the cream has been added.

FAQs

Can I freeze seafood bisque? Yes, but do so before adding the cream for best results. Thaw and reheat, then stir in cream before serving.

What can I use instead of sherry? Dry white wine or chicken broth works as a substitute.

Is this gluten-free? Not as written, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

Can I make this dairy-free? You can try substituting with coconut milk, though flavor will differ.

What if I don’t have seafood broth? Fish or chicken broth will work in a pinch.

Conclusion

Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a comforting, creamy dish that brings the best of the ocean to your table. Rich in flavor, simple to make, and endlessly adaptable, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again. Serve it up for a special dinner or cozy night in—you won’t be disappointed.