Crab Bisque Recipe

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Luxurious, velvety, and deeply satisfying, this Crab Bisque Recipe is a true seafood lover’s dream. Made with sweet, tender crab meat folded into a rich cream-based broth with hints of garlic, onion, white wine, and just a touch of cayenne, this soup offers an elegant yet comforting dining experience. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a treat but is surprisingly easy to make at home.

Perfect for cozy nights or impressing dinner guests, this bisque delivers restaurant-quality flavor in every spoonful. Whether you’re warming up in winter or serving it as a first course for a special meal, this creamy crab bisque is bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

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Why You’ll Love This Crab Bisque Recipe

This bisque is more than just a soup—it’s a luxurious experience. The flavors are beautifully layered, from the aromatic base of sautéed vegetables and spices to the richness of the crab and cream. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like it took hours but comes together in under an hour.

Made with accessible ingredients, it offers flexibility for customization while maintaining its elegant flavor profile. Plus, it stores well, making it a great make-ahead option for gatherings or weekly meal prep.

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What Kind of Crab Should I Use?

Lump crab meat is ideal for this bisque. It offers sweet, meaty chunks that hold up well in the creamy base. You can also use claw meat or a combination of both for added depth of flavor. Just make sure to pick over the crab for any shell pieces.

Canned crab meat works in a pinch, especially if you’re craving bisque out of season—just choose high-quality brands packed in water, not oil. And if you’re lucky enough to have fresh crab, use it for the best flavor and texture.

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Ingredients for the Crab Bisque Recipe

Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting this smooth and flavorful bisque. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Butter – Adds a rich base and helps to sauté the aromatics.
• Onion & Celery – These aromatics create depth and balance the richness.
• Garlic – Brings a bold, savory punch to the foundation.
• Tomato Paste – Adds color and subtle sweetness to the broth.
• All-Purpose Flour – Helps thicken the bisque without making it too heavy.
• Dry White Wine – Brightens the soup and lifts the seafood flavor.
• Seafood Stock (or Chicken Stock) – A flavorful liquid base that enhances the taste of crab.
• Heavy Cream – Provides that signature luxurious, creamy texture.
• Old Bay Seasoning – Adds a classic seafood-friendly spice mix.
• Cayenne Pepper (optional) – Brings just a gentle heat to contrast the richness.
• Lump Crab Meat – The star of the dish; sweet, tender, and delicious.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balance.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish) – Adds a bright, fresh finish.

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How To Make the Crab Bisque Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onion and celery, and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 2: Build the Base

Add tomato paste and cook for another minute. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Step 3: Add Stock and Simmer

Pour in the seafood stock, stir to combine, and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the mixture cook for about 15 minutes to develop flavor.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer in batches to a blender and return to the pot.

Step 5: Finish With Cream and Crab

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Old Bay, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Gently fold in the lump crab meat and heat through for another 5-7 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the bisque into bowls and top with fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or oyster crackers.

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Serving and Storing Crab Bisque Recipe

This crab bisque serves about 4 hearty bowls or 6 smaller appetizer-sized portions. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party but cozy enough for a weeknight treat.

To store, let the bisque cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently over low heat to avoid curdling the cream. Avoid boiling once the cream has been added.

You can also freeze the bisque before adding the crab and cream. Reheat, then stir in fresh crab and cream when ready to serve for the best texture.

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What to Serve With Crab Bisque Recipe

Crab bisque is luxurious and hearty on its own, but these additions take your meal to the next level:

Crusty French Bread

A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping and soaking up the rich bisque.

Garlic Herb Crostini

Top crostini with a little melted cheese or garlic butter to complement the soup.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the richness.

Roasted Asparagus

Earthy and slightly sweet, asparagus pairs beautifully with creamy seafood.

Lobster Grilled Cheese

Take indulgence to the max by pairing the bisque with a buttery, lobster-filled sandwich.

Shrimp Cocktail

A chilled, tangy shrimp cocktail makes a great appetizer to start your seafood feast.

Steamed Artichokes

Dip tender artichoke leaves in melted butter as a light, elegant starter.

White Wine or Sparkling Water

Cleanse the palate with a crisp white wine or sparkling citrus water to round out the meal.

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Want More Creamy Seafood Recipes?

If you’re loving the silky richness of this crab bisque, here are more crave-worthy seafood recipes to add to your list:

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna – A buttery, garlicky baked pasta that layers seafood with indulgent flavor.
• Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce – Spicy, bold, and ideal for a quick weeknight dinner.
• Lemon Herb Tuna Cakes – Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfect for meal prep.
• Creamy Irresistible Crack Dip – While not seafood, it’s a creamy hit that fits right in on a cozy menu.
• Spicy Sailor’s Dip – A bold dip that works great as a sidekick to any seafood starter.

All of these recipes bring comfort, flavor, and a touch of coastal charm to your table.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can find it again anytime you’re craving something creamy and coastal.

Tried it? Share your twist! Did you blend it ultra-smooth or leave some texture? Did you add lobster or go full spicy?

Tell me in the comments—I love seeing how these recipes evolve in your kitchens.

Explore more cozy bowls and seafood favorites on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest to inspire your next spoonful.

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