When the weather turns crisp and cozy, there’s nothing quite like warming up with a bowl of creamy Shrimp and Corn Bisque. I first discovered this treasure on a cozy evening when I wanted to escape the mundane fast food routine that had crept into my life. The moment I inhaled the rich aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with sweet corn, I knew I was onto something special.
This bisque brings together the delightful sweetness of fresh corn and succulent shrimp, creating a comforting dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. In just 45 minutes, you can treat yourself and your loved ones to a restaurant-quality experience without the fuss of fine dining. Perfect for a relaxing night at home or impressing guests at your next gathering, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Let’s dive into the joy of cooking something homemade that will quickly become a family favorite!
Why You'll Love This Shrimp and Corn Bisque
- This Shrimp and Corn Bisque is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to serve up a gourmet dish without spending all day in the kitchen.
- You’ll be captivated by the rich and creamy flavor that comes from the combination of sweet corn, tender shrimp, and aromatic seasonings.
- Its versatility makes it perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings, ensuring it will wow your guests every time.
- Plus, with a total preparation and cook time of just 45 minutes, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time, making it a true time-saver in the kitchen.
Shrimp and Corn Bisque Ingredients
Transform your dinner with this delightful Shrimp and Corn Bisque!
For the Bisque
• 1 lb shrimp – peeled and deveined for juicy bites of flavor.
• 2 cups corn kernels – using fresh or frozen adds natural sweetness.
• 1 onion – chopped to build a savory base for your bisque.
• 2 cloves garlic – minced to infuse aromatic richness into the dish.
• 4 cups chicken broth – the heart of the bisque, providing depth and warmth.
• 1 cup heavy cream – for that luxuriously creamy texture.
For Seasoning
• 2 tablespoons butter – adds a luscious, buttery flavor to the soup.
• Salt and pepper – to taste, because every dish needs a little seasoning magic!
• 1 teaspoon paprika – gives your bisque a hint of warmth and color.
For Garnishing
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley – chopped to sprinkle a touch of freshness on top.
How to Make Shrimp and Corn Bisque
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Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. This will create a rich base for the flavors to bloom. Allow the butter to bubble gently, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
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Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This is where the magic begins—your kitchen will fill with warm, inviting aromas!
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Stir in the corn kernels and cook for 5 minutes. This enhances the sweetness of the corn, allowing it to caramelize slightly and develop deeper flavor.
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Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. The broth will create a lovely, hearty texture as it blends with the other ingredients—this should take around 5 minutes.
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Reduce the heat and add the peeled shrimp, cooking until they turn pink and opaque, roughly 3-5 minutes. This is the moment you know your bisque is almost ready!
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Stir in the heavy cream, seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully together.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This final touch brightens up your bisque, adding a hint of freshness and flair to your presentation.
Optional: Serve with warm, crusty bread for the perfect pairing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Shrimp and Corn Bisque ahead of time is a brilliant way to save precious minutes during busy weeknights! You can chop the onion and garlic, as well as measure out your corn, broth, and spices, up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers. For the shrimp, it’s best to peel and devein them no more than 24 hours ahead, to ensure freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just sauté the onion and garlic, then follow the rest of the steps as outlined in the recipe. This way, your bisque will still retain its rich, comforting flavors, ensuring that dinner is just as delicious and satisfying!
How to Store and Freeze Shrimp and Corn Bisque
Fridge: Eat your bisque within 3 days for the best flavor. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Freezer: You can freeze your Shrimp and Corn Bisque for up to 3 months. Divide into portions and use freezer-safe bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through for the best texture.
Serving Tip: Always add a splash of cream when reheating to revive that creamy richness!
Shrimp and Corn Bisque Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this creamy delight and discover new layers of flavor!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a rich, vegan-friendly option that still provides a creamy texture.
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to kick up the heat and offer a zesty undertone.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for an intriguing smokiness that elevates this bisque to a new level.
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Herb-Infused: Replace parsley with fresh dill or cilantro for an aromatic twist that imparts a vibrant freshness and enhances the flavor.
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Seafood Medley: Mix in some crab or scallops along with the shrimp for a luxurious seafood blend that’s sure to impress.
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Corn Variation: Use charred corn for a delightful burst of sweetness and a hint of grill flavor that creates depth in every spoonful.
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Vegetarian Version: Swap out shrimp for diced potatoes or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option that still feels satisfying and creamy.
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Zesty Lemon: Squeeze a bit of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors, adding a fresh zing that cuts through the richness of the bisque.
What to Serve with Shrimp and Corn Bisque?
Indulge in a cozy meal that delights the senses while perfectly complementing the creamy flavors of your rich bisque.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the luscious bisque, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch that balances out the creaminess.
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Garden Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast and lightness to the dish.
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Roasted Asparagus: Nutty and tender, roasted asparagus offers an earthy flavor profile that enhances the sweetness of the shrimp and corn.
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Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice with a hint of herbs serves as an excellent canvas for soaking up the bisque, adding substance without overpowering it.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as brie and aged cheddar, paired with grapes and nuts, could serve as an elegant appetizer before the main course.
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Sparkling Wine: A glass of sparkling wine brings effervescence and acidity, providing a beautiful counterbalance to the richness of the shrimp and corn bisque.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light and zesty lemon sorbet offers a refreshing cleanse to the palate, perfectly rounding off your meal.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Shrimp and Corn Bisque, always ensure your shrimp are perfectly fresh or properly thawed to avoid a rubbery texture.
- For the best flavor, sauté your onion and garlic until they are soft and aromatic, as this forms the foundation of your dish.
- Avoid adding the shrimp too early; they only need a few minutes to cook through when added to the simmering broth.
- Lastly, let your bisque simmer gently to fully develop the flavors without boiling, which can make the cream curdle.
Shrimp and Corn Bisque Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right shrimp for the bisque?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for firm, translucent specimens with a mild briny scent. Fresh shrimp should have a slightly pink hue, whereas frozen shrimp should be properly sealed without any freezer burn. If you see dark spots all over, it’s a sign they may have been sitting too long.
How should I store my leftover bisque?
Very simple! Enjoy your Shrimp and Corn Bisque within 3 days for the best flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’ll be eating it later, let it cool completely before sealing it in the fridge to avoid any condensation, which can affect the texture.
Can I freeze Shrimp and Corn Bisque?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Shrimp and Corn Bisque for up to 3 months. To do this, divide the soup into individual portions and use freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave about an inch of space at the top of the container to allow for expansion. Make sure to label with the date so you can enjoy it at its best!
What’s the best way to reheat my bisque?
Great question! When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen bisque, it’s best to thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method helps maintain the creamy texture! If it seems too thick, feel free to add a splash of cream to restore its richness.
Can I make this dish gluten-free or dairy-free?
Yes, indeed! For a gluten-free version of Shrimp and Corn Bisque, ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. For a dairy-free alternative, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute, adjusting as necessary to maintain the desired creaminess. Your bisque will still be delicious!
Is this recipe safe for my pets?
It’s best to be cautious! While shrimp are generally safe in moderation for dogs, it’s important to avoid any onion and garlic used in the bisque, as these can be harmful to pets. If you’re looking to share, consider cooking plain shrimp without seasoning specifically for your furry friends!
Equipment
- Large pot
Ingredients
For the Bisque
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 cups corn kernels fresh or frozen
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
For Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For Garnishing
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
Cooking Process
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in corn kernels and cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil, around 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat, add shrimp, and cook until pink and opaque, roughly 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
