The Best Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque

Indulge in the rich, coastal flavors of this Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque—a velvety soup that feels like a fine dining experience, yet it’s surprisingly light and easy to make at home. With tender shrimp, sweet crabmeat, and a delicate blend of herbs and spices, each spoonful delivers depth, comfort, and satisfying seafood flavor without overwhelming heaviness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Seafood Celebration – Features both crab and shrimp for a luxurious blend of flavors.
Rich & Creamy Texture – Made with light ingredients that deliver satisfying creaminess.
Delicately Spiced – Balanced seasoning enhances, not masks, the seafood.
Weeknight-Friendly – Done in under 30 minutes, yet perfect for special occasions.

Ingredients

• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 cup low-sodium seafood or chicken broth
• ½ cup fat-free half-and-half or low-fat milk
• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or any light milk of choice)
• 6 oz cooked lump crabmeat (picked over for shells)
• 6 oz cooked small shrimp (peeled, deveined, and chopped if large)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch) + 1 tbsp water (to thicken)
• Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Build the Broth
Stir in the tomato paste, Old Bay, paprika, cayenne (if using), and flour-water mixture. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

3. Add Liquids and Simmer
Pour in the broth, half-and-half, and almond milk. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

4. Add the Seafood
Stir in the crab and shrimp. Simmer for another 5 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives. Serve hot with light crackers or crusty bread if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 195
Protein: 19g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Sugar: 4g
Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Use Pre-Cooked Seafood – Saves time and ensures tender results.
• Don’t Boil the Bisque – A gentle simmer preserves creaminess and prevents curdling.
• Garnish for Flavor & Color – A sprinkle of herbs adds brightness to the rich broth.
• Adjust the Spice – Add more cayenne for a bolder kick or omit for a milder taste.

Why This Recipe Works

This seafood bisque captures the luxurious feel of a restaurant dish while remaining light and manageable at home. With smart swaps like low-fat dairy and lean proteins, it’s hearty without being heavy, and flavorful without fuss. The blend of shrimp and crab offers a sweet, briny depth, while the creamy broth brings everything together in warm harmony.

Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is the kind of meal that turns an ordinary night into something special. It’s elegant, easy, and comforting—with all the flavor of a decadent dish, but none of the guilt. Whether you’re entertaining guests or warming up on a chilly evening, this bisque hits the spot with every spoonful.