There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Cream of Shrimp Soup. It wraps you in a cozy embrace, much like a favorite blanket on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I tasted this delightful dish; it was at a quaint seaside restaurant, where the salty air mingled with the rich aroma of seafood. The moment that creamy goodness touched my lips, I was hooked. The blend of tender shrimp, aromatic herbs, and velvety cream creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate.
As a passionate home cook, I love recreating that experience in my own kitchen. This Cream of Shrimp Soup is not just a recipe; it’s a journey back to those sun-soaked days by the ocean. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a bowl that feels luxurious yet is surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this soup is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home. So, let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on this culinary adventure!
Ingredients List
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or frozen shrimp for the best flavor.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter: This adds richness and depth to the soup.
1 small onion, finely chopped: A sweet onion works well to enhance the flavor.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic brings a wonderful aroma and taste.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the soup, giving it that creamy texture.
4 cups seafood or chicken broth: Use a good quality broth for the best results.
1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the soup luxuriously rich and smooth.
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning: A classic seasoning that complements the shrimp beautifully.
Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust these to your preference for the perfect flavor.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
How to Prepare Cream of Shrimp Soup
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbling, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pot and set them aside. This step is crucial; overcooking can make shrimp rubbery, so keep an eye on them!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The goal here is to soften the onions and release the garlic’s aroma without burning it.
Step 3: Create the Base
Next, sprinkle the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir well to combine, cooking for about 2 minutes. This helps eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the 4 cups of seafood or chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This allows the soup to thicken slightly, creating a rich base.
Step 4: Finish the Soup
Lower the heat and stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream. Add the 1 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Finally, return the cooked shrimp to the pot and heat through for a couple of minutes. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy the comforting warmth of your homemade Cream of Shrimp Soup!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Preparation: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Rich Flavor: The combination of shrimp, butter, and heavy cream creates a luxurious taste that feels indulgent.
Comforting Nature: This soup is like a warm hug on a cold day, perfect for cozy nights in or special occasions.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a starter or a main course, and pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Cream of Shrimp Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips I’ve gathered from my own kitchen adventures:
Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will elevate the flavor of your soup. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic. This step builds the foundation of flavor, so let them soften and become fragrant.
Whisk Well: When adding the flour to the pot, whisk it in thoroughly to avoid lumps. A smooth base is key to a creamy soup.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. You might want to add a pinch more salt or a dash of lemon juice for brightness.
Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the soup.
Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain the creamy texture.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this comforting dish. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying a bowl of Cream of Shrimp Soup, it’s nice to know what you’re savoring. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:
Calories: 350
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 15g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy your delicious and comforting soup while being mindful of these nutritional aspects!
FAQ Section
As you embark on your journey to create the perfect Cream of Shrimp Soup, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with my answers to help you out:
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work just fine. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps achieve that perfect texture.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the soup may not be as rich, but it will still be delicious!
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce while simmering. This will give your Cream of Shrimp Soup a delightful kick!
Can I add vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some diced celery, bell peppers, or even spinach. Just sauté them along with the onions for added flavor and nutrition.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove to maintain that creamy texture. Enjoy your comforting bowl again!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your delicious Cream of Shrimp Soup, you might find yourself with some leftovers. Storing them properly is key to maintaining that rich flavor and creamy texture. Here’s how to do it:
Cool Down: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation inside the container, which can affect the texture.
Airtight Container: Transfer the cooled soup into an airtight container. This will keep it fresh and prevent any unwanted odors from the fridge.
Refrigerate: Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you think you won’t finish it within that time, consider freezing it.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as liquids expand when frozen. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is just as important:
Thawing: If frozen, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Gentle Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and to prevent the cream from separating.
Adjust Consistency: If the soup seems too thick after reheating, you can add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
By following these storage and reheating tips, you can savor the comforting goodness of your Cream of Shrimp Soup even after the first serving!
Cream of Shrimp Soup is a rich and flavorful delight that offers a comforting experience.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups seafood or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pot and set aside.
In the same pot, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring well to combine. Cook for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Gradually whisk in the seafood or chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Add the Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes.
Return the cooked shrimp to the pot and heat through for a couple of minutes. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
