This luxurious creamy seafood soup brings together the rich flavors of crab, shrimp, and lobster in a velvety broth. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, this soup is hearty, satisfying, and full of fresh seafood goodness.
Ingredients
Seafood:
- 1 cup lump crab meat
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large, chopped if needed)
- 1 cup cooked lobster meat, chopped
Soup Base:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups seafood stock (or chicken stock)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional, for depth of flavor)
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley or chives
- Croutons or toasted baguette slices
Instructions
1. Prepare the Base
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic. SautΓ© for 3–5 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
2. Make the Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautΓ©ed vegetables and stir well, cooking for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the seafood stock, ensuring no lumps form.
3. Simmer the Broth
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream, milk, and white wine (if using).
- Add Old Bay seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the Seafood
- Gently fold in the crab meat, shrimp, and lobster.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 5–7 minutes, just until the seafood is heated through. Avoid overcooking, as seafood can become rubbery.
5. Final Touches
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Stir in the fresh parsley just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish: Sprinkle with extra parsley, chives, or a dash of Old Bay seasoning.
- Side Options: Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or oyster crackers for dipping.
- Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea complements this soup beautifully.
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Seafood Soup
- Use Fresh Seafood: Fresh or high-quality frozen seafood will make a big difference in flavor.
- Balance the Thickness: For a thicker soup, increase the flour slightly. For a lighter texture, add more seafood stock or milk.
- Customize the Seafood: Add scallops, mussels, or clams for more variety.
- Make It Ahead: This soup can be made a day in advance. Just reheat gently to avoid overcooking the seafood.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Avoid freezing, as the cream may separate, and seafood can lose its texture.
- Reheating: Warm over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling to keep the seafood tender.
Final Thoughts
This creamy seafood soup is a show-stopper for any occasion, offering a rich medley of crab, shrimp, and lobster flavors. With its indulgent texture and elegant presentation, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Dive into this luxurious bowl of comfort and enjoy the best of the ocean!