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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!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 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.