Go Back
Print Recipe

New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque

A creamy and comforting soup loaded with shrimp and sweet corn, capturing the flavors of the Bayou.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
Keyword: bisque, corn soup, creamy soup, New Orleans cuisine, Shrimp
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 375kcal

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

  • 4 cups seafood stock or vegetable broth Either option provides depth.
  • 2 tablespoons butter or vegetable oil For sautéing.
  • 1 medium onion, diced Aromatic and sweet.
  • 2 stalks celery, diced Adds refreshing crunch.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds depth of flavor.
  • 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen) Sweetness and texture.
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined The star ingredient.
  • 1 cup heavy cream For a creamy texture.

For Flavoring

  • 1 teaspoon paprika Adds a smoky depth.
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tablespoon gelatin (optional) For thickening.

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

  • In a large pot, heat the butter or oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

Add Spices

  • Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the spices to release their aromatic qualities.

Create the Base

  • Pour in the seafood stock or vegetable broth and add the corn. Increase the heat and bring to a light boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

Optional Thickening

  • If you prefer a thicker bisque, mix the gelatin with warm broth, then stir it into the pot.

Add Cream and Shrimp

  • Stir in the heavy cream, bringing the pot back to a simmer. Add the shrimp and cook for about 4–5 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.

Season and Serve

  • Season the bisque with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh chopped green onions and serve hot.

Notes

For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp. Adjust the spice level to your liking. For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half.