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New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque

A rich and creamy dish bursting with flavors of shrimp and sweet corn, perfect for cozy dinners or elegant gatherings.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American, Creole
Keyword: comfort food, Corn Bisque, New Orleans Soup, Seafood Recipe, Shrimp Bisque
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter or vegetable oil Provides rich flavor and helps sauté the aromatics.
  • 1 medium onion, diced Brings sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
  • 2 stalks celery, diced Introduces a crisp, refreshing crunch.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Imparts a fragrant, savory note.
  • 4 cups seafood stock or vegetable broth The foundation that infuses depth and heartiness.
  • 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen) Sweet, juicy bites that complement the shrimp perfectly.
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined Tender morsels that star in this dish.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Makes the bisque luxuriously creamy.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Adds a mild sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adds a warm kick to elevate the spice level.
  • 1 tablespoon gelatin (optional) A thickener that creates a velvety texture.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste Essential for balancing the flavors.

Garnish

  • Chopped green onions Provides a fresh, vibrant pop of color and flavor.

Instructions

Preparation

  • In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of butter or vegetable oil over medium heat.
  • Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables start to soften and become fragrant.
  • Stir in minced garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper, cooking for an additional minute until the spices are fragrant.
  • Pour in the seafood stock or vegetable broth, then add the corn. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a light boil.
  • Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • If using gelatin, combine it with some warm broth in a small bowl to dissolve, then stir it back into the pot.
  • Stir in the heavy cream, bringing it back to a gentle simmer.
  • Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 4–5 minutes until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Ladle the warm bisque into bowls, garnishing with chopped green onions.
  • Serve hot and enjoy this delectable dish!

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh shrimp. Customize the spice level by adjusting cayenne pepper. Add extra vegetables like carrots or potatoes for variety.