There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of creamy shrimp and crab bisque. I remember my grandmother making this for special occasions, the aroma wafting through the house, inviting everyone to gather around the dinner table. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something rich and satisfying.
As a busy mom, I love recipes that bring my family together without keeping me in the kitchen all day. This bisque is not only easy to whip up, but it’s also a fantastic way to celebrate the seafood we love. I often prepare it on weekends or when we have friends over for a casual gathering. Everyone always asks for seconds, and I can’t help but smile knowing I’ve made something special for them.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is its versatility. You can tweak the ingredients based on what you have on hand, and it still comes out delicious. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a cozy meal, this bisque hits the spot. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into making this delightful dish that will surely become a family favorite.
Making Creamy Shrimp & Crab Bisque
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 8 ounces crab meat
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 8 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ⅓ cup celery, chopped
- ⅓ cup green onion, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Start by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the chopped celery and sliced green onions, cooking until they soften.
Next, sprinkle the flour into the pan and sauté for another minute to cook it slightly.
Warm the milk separately and then pour it into the saucepan, whisking continuously to avoid any lumps.
Add in the heavy whipping cream, tomato paste, and Old Bay seasoning, stirring well to combine. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, thickening the bisque as it cooks.
Once thickened, carefully fold in the crab meat and shrimp, heating until the seafood is warmed through. This should only take a few minutes.
Serve the bisque in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley for an added touch. Enjoy!
Storing Suggestion
This bisque can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream if it thickens too much.
Cooking Tips
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables. If you prefer a spicier bisque, toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. You can also substitute the shrimp with scallops for a different seafood flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy bisque pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. You might also enjoy it alongside a glass of chilled white wine, making it an elegant meal perfect for any gathering.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the texture will be lighter. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or almond milk, but be aware this will alter the flavor slightly.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer months, feel free to add in fresh corn or diced tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor. During the fall, some roasted butternut squash can add a delightful sweetness to the bisque.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains shellfish and dairy, common allergens for many. If you’re preparing this for someone with shellfish allergies, consider using chicken or vegetable broth and omitting the seafood entirely.
FAQ
Can I freeze shrimp and crab bisque?
While you can freeze the bisque, it’s best to omit the seafood before freezing. Once thawed, you can add fresh shrimp and crab to maintain their texture. The bisque itself can last in the freezer for up to three months.
How can I thicken my bisque?
If your bisque is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and adding it to the pot. Simmer until thickened, or let it cook down for longer to achieve the desired consistency.
What should I do if the bisque is too salty?
If your bisque turns out too salty, adding a small amount of cream or milk can help balance the flavors. You can also toss in a diced potato to absorb some of the saltiness and remove it before serving.
Can I use canned seafood instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned crab or shrimp if fresh is not available. Just drain and rinse them before adding them to the bisque. However, be aware that the texture and flavor may differ slightly.
Is there a gluten-free version of this bisque?
Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, replace the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend or cornstarch to thicken the bisque. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How long does it take to prepare this bisque?
Preparation typically takes around 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 25 minutes, making this a quick and satisfying dish to enjoy any night of the week.
Creamy Shrimp & Crab Bisque
Ingredients
- 2 cups Whole Milk
- 1 tablespoon Tomato Paste
- 3 tablespoons Flour
- 1 ½ cups Heavy Whipping Cream
- 8 ounces Crab Meat
- 4 tablespoons Butter
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
- 8 ounces Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ⅓ cup Celery
- ⅓ cup Green Onion
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Add the celery and green onions to the melted butter and sauté until softened.
- Stir in the flour and sauté for another minute.
- Heat the milk until warm and then add it to the saucepan, whisking to combine and eliminate lumps.
- Whisk in the heavy cream, tomato paste, and Old Bay Seasoning.
- Bring to a low simmer and cook until the bisque thickens.
- Stir in the crab meat and shrimp and heat until the meat is heated through.
- Top with fresh parsley as a garnish.
