If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality dish that you can make right at home, this seafood bisque recipe is exactly what you need. It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with the delicious flavors of the sea. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for two or hosting a holiday gathering, this classic seafood soup is sure to impress.
In this post, you’ll learn how to make a silky-smooth homemade seafood bisque that rivals anything you’d get at a fine dining restaurant—with ingredients you can find at your local grocery store.
What Is Seafood Bisque?
A bisque is a smooth, creamy, and highly seasoned soup, traditionally made from crustaceans like shrimp, lobster, or crab. Originating from French cuisine, bisque is known for its velvety texture and deep, seafood-forward flavor.
Today, seafood bisques have evolved to include a mix of shellfish and even fish, making them more accessible while still incredibly indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Seafood Bisque
- Rich and creamy – Thanks to heavy cream and butter, this bisque is the ultimate comfort food.
- Loaded with seafood – Shrimp, scallops, crab meat, and even lobster can go into this versatile dish.
- Easy to make – No need to be a professional chef; this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Perfect for any occasion – Elegant enough for holidays, cozy enough for weeknights.
Ingredients for Seafood Bisque
To make a flavorful seafood bisque, you’ll need:
- 1/2 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1/2 pound scallops (optional)
- 1/2 cup crab meat or lobster meat
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups seafood stock or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
How to Make Seafood Bisque
Step 1: Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add tomato paste and flour
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for another minute to form a roux.
Step 3: Add broth and simmer
Slowly whisk in the seafood stock or chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Step 4: Blend until smooth
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s smooth and velvety. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches.
Step 5: Add cream, wine, and seafood
Return the pureed soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and white wine. Add the shrimp, scallops, and crab meat. Cook over low heat until the seafood is opaque and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes.
Step 6: Season and serve
Season with Old Bay, salt, and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
Tips for the Best Seafood Bisque
- Use fresh or high-quality frozen seafood for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the seafood—shrimp and scallops cook quickly.
- Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a little heat.
- Make it ahead! The flavors deepen as it sits, making it a perfect make-ahead dish.
What to Serve with Seafood Bisque
Pair this creamy seafood bisque with a warm crusty baguette, garlic bread, or a light green salad. It also works beautifully as a starter for a seafood-themed dinner.
Final Thoughts
There’s something luxurious and comforting about a warm bowl of seafood bisque. This easy seafood bisque recipe brings all the flavor of fine dining into your kitchen with simple steps and common ingredients. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just trying something new, this dish is bound to become a favorite.
Try it tonight and taste the magic of the sea—spoonful by spoonful.