Classic Shrimp Bisque Recipe – Creamy & Flavorful Seafood

Shrimp bisque is a classic French-inspired seafood soup that is rich, creamy, and full of deep, complex flavors. Originating from traditional French cuisine, bisques are typically made using shellfish like lobster, crab, or shrimp, and are known for their velvety texture. This Shrimp Bisque Recipe is the perfect comfort food for seafood lovers, offering a luxurious and indulgent taste with every spoonful. It’s an ideal dish for special occasions or a cozy night in. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a warm bowl of deliciousness, this homemade shrimp bisque will not disappoint.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Sodium: 780mg

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 35 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Cuisine: French
• Course: Soup
• Servings: 4

Equipment Needed

• Large stockpot
• Blender or immersion blender
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

For the Bisque:

• 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined, shells reserved)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 small carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups seafood or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
• 1/4 cup brandy or cognac (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Stock

1. In a large stockpot, heat 1 tbsp of butter and the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the reserved shrimp shells and sauté for 5 minutes until they turn pink and release their aroma.
3. Pour in the white wine and scrape any bits off the bottom of the pot.
4. Add 4 cups of broth, bay leaf, and thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh strainer and discard the shells. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, melt the remaining 1 tbsp of butter.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the tomato paste and mix well.
5. Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes, ensuring the flour doesn’t burn but helps thicken the bisque.

Step 3: Simmer the Bisque

1. Slowly pour in the strained shrimp stock while stirring to prevent lumps.
2. Add the paprika, cayenne pepper, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Stir in the brandy or cognac (if using) and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 4: Blend the Bisque

1. Remove the bay leaf from the pot.
2. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until creamy.
3. Return the bisque to the pot and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

1. Cut the peeled and deveined shrimp into bite-sized pieces.
2. Add them to the bisque and let them cook for about 3-5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 2 minutes without boiling.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
2. Ladle the bisque into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
3. Serve warm with crusty bread or croutons on the side.

Tips for the Best Shrimp Bisque

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh, high-quality shrimp will provide the best flavor for the bisque.
• Don’t Skip the Stock: Homemade shrimp stock enhances the depth of flavor compared to store-bought broth.
• Blend for a Smooth Texture: To achieve the classic creamy consistency, blending is essential.
• Deglaze with Wine or Brandy: This adds richness and complexity to the bisque.
• Simmer, Don’t Boil: Avoid boiling the bisque after adding the cream to prevent curdling.

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp bisque is best served warm, accompanied by:

• Crusty French bread or baguette
• A side of mixed green salad
• A glass of white wine (such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)

Storage & Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Shrimp bisque can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container. Reheat gently over low heat.
• Reheating: Warm over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to prevent separation.

Conclusion

This Shrimp Bisque Recipe delivers a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Its creamy texture, robust seafood flavor, and touch of spice make it an irresistible treat. Whether for a holiday meal or a weeknight indulgence, this bisque is sure to impress. Give it a try and savor the rich flavors of this classic French-inspired dish!

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Ashley Doyle

I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.