The aroma of sizzling bacon mingling with sautéed vegetables instantly transports me to the vibrant streets of New Orleans. One bowl of this New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque, with its creamy texture and rich flavors, is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. It perfectly blends tender shrimp and sweet corn, all embraced by just the right kick of Cajun spices. Not only is this bisque a quintessential comfort food, but it’s also a fantastic option for gatherings, as it can be prepared ahead of time and even frozen for later. Are you ready to elevate your cooking game with this deliciously rich bisque?

Why is this bisque a must-try?

Comforting Warmth: The New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque is like a cozy blanket on a cold day, offering deep flavors that soothe the soul.

Easier Than You Think: With just a line-up of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, creating this satisfying dish is surprisingly straightforward!

Savory and Sweet Contrast: The delightful combination of sweet corn and tender shrimp along with crispy bacon adds a delicious depth of flavor.

Versatile Delight: Whether you’re a seasoned chef aiming to impress or a home cook looking for comfort, this bisque is perfect for any occasion, similar to our Keto Garlic Shrimp!

Date Night or Family Fun: Perfect for gatherings or intimate dinners, this bisque shines on your table and pairs beautifully with crusty bread – it’s a dish everyone will love!

New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque Ingredients

For the Base

Bacon – Adds richness and depth of flavor; use turkey bacon for a leaner option.
Yellow Onion – Provides aromatic base flavor; sweet onion can be a good alternative.
Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and crunch; any color works; use a green pepper for a sharper taste.
Celery – Contributes subtle flavor and texture; omit if needed for low-sodium.
Garlic – Enhances overall flavor profile; substitute with garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
Sherry Cooking Wine – For deglazing and adding depth; dry white wine can replace it.
Butter – Important for creating a rich roux; margarine can be a substitute for dairy-free diets.
All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the bisque; gluten-free flour can be used for a GF version.

For the Soup

Shrimp Stock – Provides seafood flavor; chicken or vegetable stock can be used as alternatives.
Water – To adjust consistency; modify based on the desired thickness of the bisque.
Green Onions – Adds fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color; chives can be a substitute for a milder taste.
Fresh Parsley – Offers freshness and color; cilantro provides a distinct variation if preferred.

Main Ingredients

Medium Raw Shrimp (41/50) – Primary protein source; can substitute with crab or lobster for variation.
Cajun Seasoning – Adds flavor and spice; adjust to taste using a spicier mix if desired.
Corn (Fresh Ears) – Sweetness and texture contrast; frozen corn can be used when fresh isn’t available.
Heavy Cream – Creates a creamy texture and richness; coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free option.

Prepare these ingredients for a delightful bowl of New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque that will surely warm your heart!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque

Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Begin by finely chopping the yellow onion, bell pepper, and celery. Slice the green onions and parsley for garnish, and mince the garlic. Carefully remove the corn kernels from the cobs, and chop the bacon into small pieces. Lastly, season the shrimp with your Cajun seasoning blend, ensuring they are evenly coated for maximum flavor in your New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque.

Step 2: Crisp Bacon
In a large Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and golden-brown, about 8-10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, allowing the excess grease to drain. Leave about 1 tablespoon of drippings in the pot to infuse the next ingredients with that rich bacony flavor as you move forward in the recipe.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery to the Dutch oven, stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. Add the minced garlic in the last minute of cooking to avoid burning. The vibrant colors will signal that your sautéed base is ready for the next steps in making the New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque.

Step 4: Deglaze
Carefully pour in the sherry cooking wine, stirring to deglaze the pot and scraping up any flavorful brown bits stuck to the bottom. Let the sherry simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it reduces a bit. This process adds a depth of flavor to the bisque, capturing the essence of New Orleans in each spoonful.

Step 5: Make Roux
Add the butter to the pot, allowing it to melt fully before sprinkling in the all-purpose flour. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes, letting the roux cook until it achieves a light golden color. This roux forms the backbone of your New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque, thickening the soup and adding a delightful richness to the final dish.

Step 6: Simmer
Gradually whisk in the shrimp stock, followed by water until you achieve your desired consistency. Stir in half of the chopped parsley and green onions. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. Allowing it to simmer will deepen the flavors while ensuring the soup has the right body.

Step 7: Cook Shrimp & Corn
Now it’s time for the star ingredients: add the seasoned shrimp and fresh corn kernels to the pot, followed by the heavy cream. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients, allowing the creamy goodness to envelop each piece of shrimp and corn in your bisque.

Step 8: Adjust & Serve
Taste your New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque for seasoning, adjusting if necessary. Once everything is to your liking, ladle the bisque into warm bowls, garnishing generously with the reserved parsley and green onions. Serve hot alongside crusty bread for a comforting meal that brings the vibrant flavors of Louisiana right to your kitchen.

Storage Tips for New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque

Fridge: Store the bisque in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to preserve its rich flavor and creamy texture.

Freezer: This bisque freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers for easy thawing later.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy your New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Gently reheat on the stove, avoiding boiling to keep the shrimp tender.

Avoid Texture Changes: For best results, add fresh herbs like parsley when reheating to revitalize flavor and presentation!

Expert Tips for New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque

Homemade Stock: Use homemade shrimp stock for a richer flavor. Save shrimp heads and shells to create a flavorful base that elevates your bisque.

Don’t Rush the Roux: Take your time with the roux; cooking it until golden ensures a deep, complex flavor. Avoid burning by stirring continuously and keeping the heat moderate.

Frozen Corn Alternative: If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn works perfectly. It’s quick to prepare and will taste just as delightful in your New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque.

Proper Cooling: Let the bisque cool before refrigerating to maintain texture and flavor. Using shallow containers helps it cool faster and stay fresh.

Gentle Reheating: When reheating, do so on the stove over low heat to prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery. This keeps your bisque creamy and luscious.

Make Ahead Options

If you’re a busy home cook, you’ll love how easy it is to prepare the New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque ahead of time! You can chop the vegetables and cook the bacon up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to proceed. Additionally, the soup base (up to the vegetarian simmer step) can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain the rich flavors, cool it before storing in an airtight container. When you’re ready to finish the New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque, simply reheat it gently on the stove, add in the shrimp and corn, and simmer for a few minutes until everything is heated through. Enjoy a comforting and delicious meal with minimal effort!

New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque Variations

Feel free to adapt the flavors and ingredients of this comforting bisque to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Seafood Medley: Add crab meat at the end for a delightful seafood twist. Pairing shrimp with crab creates an indulgent experience that seafood lovers will adore.
Spicy Kick: For an added layer of heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or an extra dash of Cajun seasoning. This fiery touch will surely awaken your taste buds!
Heartier Version: Toss in diced potatoes to make it more filling. Simply add the potatoes during the simmering stage for a satisfying and hearty dish.
Herb Swap: Replace fresh parsley with cilantro for a fresh, vibrant flavor that brings a touch of brightness. This change can give your bisque a zestful twist.
Flavor Boost: Introduce smoked paprika to enhance the smoky depths of the bisque. A sprinkle can elevate the flavors reminiscent of a summer BBQ experience.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for a vegan-friendly version. The slight sweetness from coconut will complement the corn beautifully.
Vegetable Lovers: Add diced zucchini or bell peppers for a veggie-packed bisque. Their sweetness will harmonize perfectly with the shrimp and corn, making it colorful and nutritious.
Different Stocks: If you’re out of shrimp stock, feel free to use chicken or vegetable stock. Each will bring a unique flavor profile while keeping the comforting essence of the bisque intact!

Looking for more seafood inspiration? Try our delectable Crab Shrimp Stuffed recipe or savor the bold flavors of Shrimp Taco Tacos!

What to Serve with New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque

The perfect bowl of bisque deserves sides that elevate the dining experience and complement those rich, buttery flavors.

Crusty French Bread: Nothing beats dipping a warm slice into the creamy bisque, soaking up its luscious essence.
Garlic Breadsticks: Their crispy texture with a hint of garlic makes them a delightful pairing, perfect for sopping up every last drop of the soup.
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the bisque beautifully.
Cornbread: This slightly sweet biscuit-like treat echoes the sweetness of corn in the bisque, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
Coleslaw: A zesty slaw introduces a crunchy, tangy contrast that cuts through the creaminess, brightening each bite.
White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio enhances the seafood notes, harmonizing perfectly with the bisque’s flavors.
Dessert: End the meal on a sweet note with a slice of key lime pie; its tartness will refresh your palate, making for a delightful finish.

New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque Recipe FAQs

How do I select fresh shrimp for my bisque?
When choosing shrimp, look for firm, translucent flesh with no dark spots all over. Fresh shrimp should have a mild ocean smell, not overly fishy. I recommend medium raw shrimp (41/50) for this bisque, but feel free to select larger shrimp if preferred.

What’s the best way to store leftover bisque?
Store your New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque in an airtight container in the fridge for about 2-3 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing to maintain its rich flavor and creamy texture!

Can I freeze the bisque for future meals?
Absolutely! This bisque freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. For best results, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, allowing for easy thawing later. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How do I reheat the bisque without compromising the shrimp’s texture?
Gently reheat the bisque on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid boiling, as this can make the shrimp rubbery. If desired, add fresh herbs like parsley just before serving to enhance flavor!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If cooking for guests with allergies, keep in mind that this dish contains shrimp and dairy (heavy cream). For a dairy-free option, you can substitute coconut cream, and if a guest is shellfish allergic, consider using crab or lobster as an alternative or a vegetarian version using vegetable stock and no seafood.

What should I do if my bisque is too thick after cooking?
If your bisque has become too thick, simply whisk in additional shrimp stock or water, a little at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Keep in mind that it will thicken as it cools, so adjust as needed before serving!