Elegant Lobster, Shrimp & Crab Bisque Recipe

This Seafood Bisque is a luxurious, creamy soup loaded with shrimp, crab, and lobster, making it a perfect dish for special occasions or a comforting meal at home. With a rich seafood broth, aromatic vegetables, and a velvety texture, this bisque is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Creamy: A smooth, indulgent bisque with a deep seafood flavor.
• Packed with Seafood: A combination of shrimp, crab, and lobster for ultimate decadence.
• Elegant & Comforting: Perfect for a fancy dinner or cozy night in.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses fresh seafood, broth, and classic seasonings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Seafood:

• ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ lb crab meat
• ½ lb cooked lobster meat, chopped

Vegetables & Aromatics:

• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 carrot, diced

Dairy & Broth:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups seafood broth or fish stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup dry white wine (optional, for depth of flavor)

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)

Garnish:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Croutons or toasted bread

Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Create the Base:

1. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to coat the vegetables, cooking for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
2. Slowly pour in the white wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the pot.
3. Gradually add the seafood broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Add Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).

3. Simmer the Bisque:

1. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth, or carefully transfer to a blender in batches.

4. Add the Seafood:

1. Stir in the shrimp, crab, and lobster, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until combined. Simmer for another 2 minutes, but do not boil.

5. Serve & Garnish:

• Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and croutons.
• Serve with toasted bread or a warm baguette.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Extra Creamy: Blend in an extra ¼ cup of cream for a richer texture.
• Tomato-Based: Add ¼ cup of tomato paste for a slight tang.
• Spicy Kick: Increase cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes.
• No Alcohol: Skip the wine and use extra broth instead.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months, but note that dairy-based soups may slightly change texture.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

FAQs

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before adding to the bisque.

What’s the best way to thicken the bisque?

If needed, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it in.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors deepen when made a day ahead. Just reheat gently before serving.

What’s the best seafood broth to use?

Homemade seafood stock or store-bought fish or lobster broth works best.

Can I substitute another type of seafood?

Absolutely! Scallops or clams can be added for variety.

What wine pairs well with this bisque?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the flavors.

Is this bisque gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener.

How do I make this bisque more budget-friendly?

Use imitation crab and shrimp instead of lump crab and lobster.

What’s the difference between bisque and chowder?

Bisque is smooth and creamy, while chowder is thicker and chunkier with more potatoes or vegetables.

Can I add cheese to the bisque?

Yes! Parmesan or Gruyère can enhance the richness.

Conclusion

This Seafood Bisque with Crab, Shrimp, and Lobster is an elegant, creamy dish that’s packed with seafood goodness. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just craving a comforting meal, this bisque is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and enjoy a taste of the sea in every spoonful!

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