Easy Shrimp (Or Crab) Bisque
Creamy shrimp or crab bisque with rich flavors of butter, sherry, and mushroom and asparagus soups, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a comforting, elegant starter or main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onion until tender.
- Add the sherry (or white wine) and cook until the liquid reduces by half.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of asparagus soup, lemon juice, and half and half, blending well.
- Add the cooked shrimp (or crab meat) to the mixture.
- Heat thoroughly without boiling, then sprinkle with parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using heavy cream instead of half and half. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute the cream soups with a homemade roux and vegetable broth. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the flavor profile. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can add brightness to the bisque. This recipe is versatile; feel free to add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bisque hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For a touch of elegance, consider serving it alongside a glass of dry sherry or a crisp white wine. This bisque can also be a delicious starter for a seafood-themed dinner, such as those found in classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent curdling. If the bisque thickens too much after refrigeration, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Avoid microwaving, as it can affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Shrimp (Or Crab) Bisque contains roughly 2697 calories, with 26g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 260g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (87% of the Daily Value), iron (84% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (67% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1267mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp or crab meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp or crab meat. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before adding them to the bisque. Cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure the seafood is heated through before serving.
How can I make this bisque spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also use Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Adjust to your heat preference and taste as you go.
Is it possible to make this bisque vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, omit the shrimp or crab and replace the cream soups with a homemade vegetable cream soup. Use vegetable broth instead of the sherry or wine, and add more vegetables such as mushrooms and spinach for added texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).