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The BEST Crab Bisque Recipe

This Crab Bisque is a luxurious, creamy, and flavorful dish that highlights the delicate sweetness of crab meat. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner, this bisque delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. Impress your guests or treat yourself to an indulgent seafood experience!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 1 stalk celery finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups seafood stock or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup dry sherry optional
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 lb fresh crab meat lump or claw meat
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional for extra heat
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Base

  • Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
  • Add Flour: Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 2: Add Liquids

  • Deglaze with Sherry: Slowly add the dry sherry (if using), scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  • Add Stock and Tomato Paste: Stir in the seafood stock and tomato paste. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.

Step 3: Blend and Strain

  • Blend for Smoothness: Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. If you prefer a perfectly silky bisque, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve.

Step 4: Add Cream and Crab

  • Add Cream and Milk: Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring gently to combine.
  • Add Crab Meat: Gently fold in the crab meat, paprika, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Final Touches

  • Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
  • Garnish and Serve: Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

  • Use lump crab meat for a more luxurious texture, or claw meat for a stronger crab flavor.
  • Substitute chicken broth if seafood stock is not available.
  • For extra depth of flavor, roast the crab shells and add them to the stock while simmering.
  • Add a splash of sherry just before serving for an extra layer of sophistication.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.