When it comes to comforting, indulgent soups that warm the heart and soul, few options rival a rich and creamy crab soup. With its tender chunks of crab meat suspended in a velvety broth, this beloved dish is a staple of coastal cuisine. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of creamy crab soups, exploring 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of this seafood superstar.
From classic Maryland-style soups to spicy Thai-inspired variations, these recipes will transport your taste buds on a culinary journey around the world. Whether you’re a crab lover or just looking for a new twist on a comfort food classic, we’ve got you covered with these 18 creamy crab soup recipes.
Classic Maryland Crab Soup
A creamy and flavorful soup that’s a staple of Maryland cuisine, featuring fresh lump crab meat and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add crab meat, stir gently to combine with the onion mixture.
4. Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, and water. Stir to combine.
5. Add Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Bring soup to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Spicy Thai Crab Soup
This spicy and savory soup is a twist on traditional Thai cuisine, featuring succulent crab meat in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh crab meat (jumbo lump or claw)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 cup fish stock or chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and ginger; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add crab meat, coconut milk, fish stock, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired. Squeeze lime juice over the soup just before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Crab and Corn Chowder
Warm up with this rich and satisfying soup that combines succulent crab meat, sweet corn, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in corn kernels and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture; whisk to combine.
5. Gradually add heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking constantly.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
7. Stir in crab meat; season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Vietnamese Crab and Asparagus Soup
This refreshing soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, showcasing the sweetness of asparagus, the richness of crab, and the warmth of Vietnamese spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (asparagus, bell peppers, carrots, and onions)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic, ginger, and mixed vegetables; cook until tender.
2. Add crab meat, chicken broth, coconut milk, and fish sauce. Stir well.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Old Bay Crab Soup
Old Bay Crab Soup Recipe
A flavorful and comforting soup that combines the sweetness of crab with the savory taste of Old Bay seasoning.
- Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
- 1 cup Old Bay seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add crab meat, Old Bay seasoning, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato-Based Crab Bisque
This rich and flavorful bisque combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes with the indulgent taste of succulent crab, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs jumbo lump crab meat
– 3 cups fresh tomato puree
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the fresh tomato puree, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Fold in the jumbo lump crab meat until well combined.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Louisiana-Style Crab Gumbo
This rich and flavorful gumbo is a staple of Louisiana cuisine, packed with succulent crab meat and a depth of spices that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup crab broth or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon filé powder (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in thyme, cayenne pepper, paprika, and crab broth or chicken broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in crab meat and filé powder (if using); cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab and Shrimp Seafood Soup
A flavorful and refreshing seafood soup that combines the sweetness of crab with the succulence of shrimp, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cups fish stock
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the fish stock, crab meat, shrimp, Old Bay seasoning, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Creamy Crab and Potato Soup
Warm up with this rich and satisfying soup that combines the flavors of tender crab, potatoes, and a hint of creaminess.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed potatoes (such as Yukon gold and red bliss), peeled and cubed
– 1 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add potatoes, crab meat, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Crab Soup with Okra
This hearty soup combines the flavors of Louisiana’s Cajun country with the sweetness of crab and the sliminess of okra. Perfect for a cold winter evening, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add okra; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add crab meat, chicken broth, and half-and-half; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; let soup cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crab and Sweet Corn Soup
Crab and Sweet Corn Soup Recipe
Summary:
This creamy soup combines the sweetness of corn with the richness of crab, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh sweet corn kernels
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup lump crab meat
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add corn kernels; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in cream and milk; stir to combine.
5. Add paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Stir in crab meat; heat through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
20-25 minutes
Chinese Crab and Egg Drop Soup
This classic Chinese soup is a comforting blend of tender crab meat, soft eggs, and savory broth. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this delightful dish at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of crab meat (jumbo lump or flaked)
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chicken broth and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Crack in the eggs and stir gently with a spoon to create thin, egg-drop strands.
4. Add the crab meat and sesame oil to the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the soup for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Coconut Milk Soup
This creamy soup combines the sweetness of coconut milk with the richness of fresh crab, perfect for a warm and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in crab meat, coconut milk, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sherry-Infused Crab Soup
A rich and creamy soup that combines the sweetness of sherry with the savory flavor of crab, perfect for a special occasion or cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sherry wine
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in crab meat; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add heavy cream, sherry wine, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Crab and Mushroom Cream Soup
This rich and flavorful soup is perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 8 minutes.
3. Add crab meat, garlic, cream, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean Spicy Crab Soup
This vibrant and flavorful soup combines succulent crab meat with a spicy kick from Korean chili flakes, making it a perfect dish for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the ginger and chili flakes; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the crab meat, broth, and water; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crab and Vegetable Medley Soup
This hearty soup combines the sweetness of crab with the freshness of vegetables, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add sliced carrots and celery, cooking until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in crab meat, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 10-12 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Crab and Vegetable Medley Soup!
Crab and Wild Rice Soup
Crab and Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Warm up with a hearty bowl of crab and wild rice soup, packed with succulent lumps of crab meat and nutty flavors from the wild rice. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the chicken broth, wild rice, crab meat, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the heavy cream.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a flavorful seafood experience with these 18 creamy crab soup recipes! From classic Maryland-style soups to spicy Thai and Cajun-inspired twists, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to combine succulent crab meat with aromatics like onion and garlic, and add depth with cream, coconut milk, or tomatoes. Each recipe is a delicious celebration of the ocean’s bounty. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl or a bold and spicy adventure, these soups are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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