Name: New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 cups Corn kernels, fresh or frozen; 1 small Onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour; 4 cups Seafood or chicken broth; 1 cup Heavy cream; 1/2 cup Bell pepper, diced; 1/2 teaspoon Smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 green onions Chopped (for garnish); Fresh parsley Chopped (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

If you love creamy, flavorful soups that warm you from the inside out, then New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque is a dish you’ll want to add to your recipe collection. This bisque perfectly blends tender shrimp, sweet corn, and a rich, velvety broth that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. Did you know this dish is inspired by the vibrant food culture of New Orleans, where bold spices and fresh seafood come together to create unforgettable meals? Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner, this bisque is quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’ve tried our popular Cajun Chicken Pasta, you’ll find this bisque just as satisfying with a lighter, soupy twist. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this simple yet elegant recipe!

What is New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque?

Ever wondered why it’s called New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque? Well, it’s not just a fancy name to sound impressive! This dish carries the heart of New Orleans right on your spoon — a city famous for its love of shrimp, spices, and soulful cooking. Imagine shrimp and sweet corn having a cozy chat inside a creamy, spice-kissed broth. It’s almost poetic! And, as the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” so this bisque might be the shortcut you need. If you’re curious to taste a little of the Big Easy’s magic, why not give this bisque a try today?

Why You’ll Love This

New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque shines with its rich, creamy texture and the natural sweetness of fresh corn balancing the ocean-fresh shrimp. What sets this recipe apart is how budget-friendly it is — shrimp can be affordable when bought frozen or in bulk, and pantry staples like flour and broth stretch the flavors without breaking the bank. Plus, the addition of smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper add warmth and depth without overwhelming the dish. If you enjoy the comforting richness of our Creamy Tomato Basil Soup, this bisque offers a fresh seafood twist that’s both comforting and exciting. Dive into this flavorful delight and see why making bisque at home beats ordering out every time!

How to Make

Quick Overview

This New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque combines simple ingredients into a creamy, satisfying meal that’s ready in under 40 minutes. The buttery roux thickens the bisque beautifully, giving it a luscious mouthfeel, while the seafood broth contributes a delicate, briny flavor. The touch of cayenne pepper spices things up pleasantly without overpowering the natural sweetness of the corn and shrimp. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for those chilly nights when you want comfort in a bowl.

Ingredients

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups seafood or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup diced bell pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step

Prepare the base: Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and diced bell pepper, cooking until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Make the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and whisk constantly for 2-3 minutes. This thickens the bisque and adds a nice nutty flavor.
Add broth and spices: Slowly pour in the seafood or chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and season with salt and black pepper.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to develop flavor and thicken.
Add shrimp and corn: Stir in the shrimp and corn kernels. Cook until shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 4-5 minutes.
Finish with cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, warming through but not boiling. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnish and serve: Ladle bisque into bowls and sprinkle with chopped green onions and fresh parsley for a fresh, bright finish.

What to Serve New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque With

This bisque pairs beautifully with a crusty French baguette or garlic bread — perfect for soaking up all that creamy goodness. A light side salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. For drinks, consider a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling lemonade for a refreshing contrast. To keep the New Orleans vibe, a side of Cajun spiced roasted vegetables or a classic jambalaya might round out a hearty, memorable meal.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Use peeled and deveined shrimp to save prep time and avoid any crunchy surprises.
Don’t skip the roux — it’s the secret to that silky bisque texture everyone loves. Be patient and cook the flour a bit to get a richer flavor.
If you want a thicker bisque, add an extra tablespoon of flour or let it simmer a little longer.
For milder flavors, reduce or skip the cayenne pepper. For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce just before serving.
Fresh corn gives the best sweetness, but frozen works just fine — just thaw it first.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store leftover bisque in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently over low heat to avoid curdling the cream and stirring occasionally. If the bisque thickens too much in the fridge, thin it out with a splash of broth or water. For longer storage, freeze in smaller portions for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of seafood instead of shrimp?
Absolutely! Crab, lobster, or scallops make excellent substitutes and add their own special flavor to this bisque.

Is the bisque spicy?
It has a gentle kick from smoked paprika and optional cayenne. You can adjust or omit the cayenne to suit your taste.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, swap heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a creamy, dairy-free version.

How do I make this bisque gluten-free?
Use gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch instead of regular flour to thicken the soup.

Can I prepare the bisque in advance?
Definitely! Make it a day ahead to let the flavors meld even more. Just reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque is the perfect comfort food that brings a taste of the South straight to your kitchen. Its creamy texture, sweet corn, and tender shrimp come together in a quick, budget-friendly dish that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this bisque is sure to warm hearts and fill bellies. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite crusty bread and a fresh salad to complete your meal. Give this recipe a try and discover why it’s become a beloved classic in our home — delicious, satisfying, and downright irresistible!