Go Back
+ servings
Creamy Crab Bisque

Creamy Crab Bisque - A Luxuriously Indulgent Treat

Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Creamy Crab Bisque, a comforting seafood soup perfect for cozy evenings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Soups
Cuisine: Seafood
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Substitution: Margarine can be used for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 medium Onion Note: Yellow or white onion works best.
  • 1 stalk Celery Note: Can be substituted with additional onion if desired.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Note: Fresh minced garlic is recommended for best results.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Substitution: Can be replaced with pureed tomatoes in a pinch.
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning Substitution: A mix of paprika, celery salt, and black pepper can replace it.
  • Salt Adjust to your preference.
  • Black Pepper Adjust to your preference.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Note: Omit for a milder soup.
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Note: Use gluten-free flour for a GF version.
  • 4 cups Seafood or Chicken Broth Note: Homemade broth enhances flavor.
For the Finishing Touch
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Substitution: Use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire Sauce Note: Ensure the brand is Halal-certified.
  • 1/2 tablespoon Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed is best.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Note: Fresh thyme can be used for a more vibrant flavor.
  • 1 pound Lump Crab Meat Substitution: High-quality canned crab can be used, but fresh is preferred.

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Crab Bisque
  1. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter is frothy, add 1 chopped onion, 1 stalk of chopped celery, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté the vegetables until they become soft and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  2. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper to taste. Cook the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and deepen in flavor.
  3. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour while continuously stirring to blend it into the vegetable mixture. Cook this roux for just 1 minute; keep stirring to prevent burning.
  4. Gradually pour in 4 cups of seafood or chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for about 10 minutes.
  5. Reduce the heat to low, and carefully stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce, the juice of half a lemon, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  6. Gently add 1 pound of lump crab meat to the pot, stirring lightly to incorporate without breaking the crab chunks. Simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
  7. Taste your bisque and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or cayenne for heat. Consider blending a portion for a smoother texture.
  8. Allow the bisque to sit for a few minutes before serving. Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and serve with crusty bread or crackers.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 18gFat: 38gSaturated Fat: 22gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Avoid boiling the soup after adding cream to prevent curdling. Taste before serving and a squeeze of lemon can elevate the flavor.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!