This rich and velvety seafood bisque is packed with tender shrimp, sweet crab meat, and warm spices. It’s perfect as an elegant starter or a comforting main dish.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 3 cups seafood stock (or chicken broth as a substitute)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup whole milk

• ½ lb cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped

• ½ lb lump crab meat, shells removed

• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional garnish: chopped parsley, extra shrimp or crab meat, or a drizzle of cream

Instructions

1.  Sauté the aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

2.  Make the roux

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the vegetables. Stir continuously for about 1–2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. The mixture should look slightly thick and lightly golden.

3.  Add the stock

Slowly pour in the seafood stock while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

4.  Stir in dairy

Reduce the heat to low. Add the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring gently until fully combined. Do not let the soup boil.

5.  Season the bisque

Add the Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

6.  Add the seafood

Gently fold in the chopped shrimp and lump crab meat. Simmer on low heat for 5–8 minutes, just until the seafood is heated through. Avoid overcooking to keep the crab tender.

7.  Finish and serve

Remove from heat. Let the bisque rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, extra seafood, or a light drizzle of cream if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot with crusty bread, garlic toast, or oyster crackers

• Pair with a light green salad for a balanced meal

• Ideal for special dinners, holidays, or cozy evenings

This creamy crab and shrimp seafood bisque delivers deep seafood flavor with a smooth, luxurious texture - comforting, elegant, and satisfying.