Quick Crab Bisque
A rich, creamy crab bisque with tomato and pea soup base, accented with sherry, perfect for elegant starters or comforting meals for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the tomato soup, pea soup, and heavy cream together just until hot.
- Add sherry (if using) and crab meat, stirring gently.
- Bring the mixture back to a hot temperature.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped chives.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a touch of Old Bay seasoning or a squeeze of lemon juice. If you don't have sherry, a dry white wine can work as a substitute. You can also use fresh crab if available, though canned makes this recipe quick and easy. For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crab bisque hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and freshly chopped chives for an elegant touch. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a light meal. For a more substantial offering, consider serving it alongside Buttery Pasta With Shrimp or a light seafood salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the bisque on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent separation. Avoid boiling, as this can alter the texture. You may need to add a splash of cream or broth to thin it out as it thickens.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Crab Bisque contains roughly 849 calories, with 12g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (106% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin D.
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 crab meat instead of canned?
Yes, you can use frozen crab meat, but make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the bisque. Fresh crab meat will give you the best flavor and texture, but frozen is a great alternative if canned isn't available.
Is it possible to make this bisque dairy-free?
You can make a dairy-free version by substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy cream alternative. Ensure the soup bases you use are also dairy-free, such as specific brands of tomato and pea soup that cater to dietary restrictions.
What can I serve with crab bisque?
Crab bisque pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a light green salad, crusty bread, or even a seafood platter. For something heartier, you might enjoy it alongside classic American recipes like Tuna Fish Sandwich or Salmon Croquettes(Not Granny Mac'S!).
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).