Name: Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons butter; 1 small onion, diced; 2 ribs celery, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups seafood stock; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/3 cup dry sherry; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; 8 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined; 8 ounces crab meat, lump or claw; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Rich, velvety, and packed with the flavors of the ocean, this Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is comfort in a bowl. Whether you’re serving it as a starter for a holiday dinner or savoring a bowl for a cozy night in, this bisque is a celebration of seafood with every spoonful. The sweet chunks of crab and tender shrimp are enveloped in a luscious cream base enhanced with a touch of sherry, fresh herbs, and a subtle hint of spice.

This bisque doesn’t just warm you up—it makes a statement. It feels elegant but is surprisingly simple to prepare. You can even make it ahead for stress-free entertaining or a weeknight indulgence that tastes like it came from a fine coastal restaurant.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

If you love creamy soups and crave the rich flavor of seafood, this bisque is about to be your new favorite. It’s indulgent without being heavy, and the textures are incredibly satisfying. The balance of garlic, thyme, and paprika complements the sweetness of the shellfish, while the cream and broth create a silky smooth base. It’s also customizable—use lump crab, claw meat, or even imitation crab depending on your budget.

What Kind of Seafood Should I Use in Bisque?

The beauty of this bisque is its flexibility. While the combination of shrimp and crab offers the ultimate luxury, you can substitute with lobster, scallops, or even white fish if desired. For crab, lump crabmeat gives you big, satisfying bites, while claw meat adds a deeper, more robust flavor. Fresh or frozen shrimp work equally well, just be sure to peel and devein them before cooking.

Ingredients for the Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Creating this bisque requires a few quality ingredients that come together to build layers of flavor. Each plays an essential role in the final taste and texture.

Butter – Adds richness and forms the base for sautéing the aromatics.
Onion – Provides a savory-sweet foundation.
Celery – Lends a subtle bitterness that balances the cream.
Garlic – Essential for that aromatic depth.
All-Purpose Flour – Helps thicken the bisque to a luxurious texture.
Seafood Stock – Intensifies the ocean flavor. Chicken stock is a decent backup.
Heavy Cream – Delivers that unmistakable creamy mouthfeel.
Dry Sherry – Adds a warm complexity that rounds out the flavor.
Paprika – For a touch of color and mild smoky heat.
Thyme – Brings in a fragrant, earthy note.
Bay Leaf – Adds subtle herbal depth during simmering.
Shrimp – Use medium-sized, peeled and deveined.
Crab Meat – Lump or claw, picked over for shells.
Salt and Pepper – For final seasoning adjustment.
Fresh Parsley – Brightens and finishes the bisque.

How To Make the Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery, cooking until softened and translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Base

Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 2 minutes to form a light roux. Gradually pour in the seafood stock while whisking to prevent lumps. Add the thyme, bay leaf, and paprika.

Step 3: Simmer and Thicken

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in the dry sherry and heavy cream, then reduce heat to low.

Step 4: Add the Seafood

Toss in the shrimp and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until they turn pink. Gently fold in the crab meat and let it heat through for another 2 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove the bay leaf, ladle the bisque into bowls, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers.

Serving and Storing This Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

This seafood bisque serves about 4 to 6 people, making it perfect for an intimate dinner or a cozy lunch. Pair it with a simple green salad or toasted baguette slices for a complete meal. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring often to preserve the creamy texture. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the cream to separate.

What to Serve With Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque?

Crusty French Bread

A classic side for soaking up every drop of the luxurious bisque.

Roasted Asparagus

The earthy flavor of roasted asparagus balances the richness of the soup.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine with a tangy dressing adds freshness to your meal.

Cheddar Biscuits

Cheesy and flaky, these biscuits are a comforting complement.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Toasts

A double-seafood pairing for those who can’t get enough.

Classic Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offer a refreshing contrast.

White Wine

Pair with a crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to highlight the seafood.

Steamed Green Beans

Light and tender with a bit of crunch to round out the meal.

Want More Seafood Ideas?

If this Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque has won your heart, you’ll definitely want to try these other dishes from the Janet Dishes kitchen:

Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon Recipe with bright citrus flair.
Pan-Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce for a crispy, rich finish.
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna with layers of cheesy comfort.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta if you’re craving bold Southern flavors.
Irresistible Grilled Salmon with the Best Salmon Seasoning for a no-fuss, flavorful grill option.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood board so you can revisit it anytime you crave something cozy and indulgent.

Let me know how yours turned out. Did you go for extra sherry? Maybe add a dash of cayenne? I’d love to hear your tweaks and tips—let’s share the joy of cooking together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and nourishing meals over on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next favorite dish!

Conclusion

This Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is more than a soup—it’s a bowl of comfort, elegance, and coastal flavor. With just a handful of steps and simple ingredients, it transforms an ordinary evening into something truly special. Whether you’re making it for a dinner party or just yourself, don’t be surprised if it becomes a repeat request.