New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque is a culinary delight that brings the flavors of the bayou right to your kitchen. Imagine a creamy, rich soup, brimming with tender shrimp and sweet corn, warming you from the inside out. The aroma wafting through your home will entice everyone to come gather around the table.

This bisque holds a special place in my heart; I remember the first time I had it during Mardi Gras. The vibrant festivities paired perfectly with this comforting dish, making it an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or celebrating a special occasion, this bisque promises to deliver an amazing flavor experience that you won’t soon forget.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque is easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion
- Its creamy texture and delightful flavor profile make it irresistible
- The visual appeal of this dish is stunning, and it’s versatile enough for both casual lunches and elegant dinners
- You’ll enjoy customizable ingredients based on personal preferences or what’s available in your pantry
I’ll never forget when I first made this recipe for my friends; their faces lit up after each spoonful!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Shrimp: Use large, peeled shrimp for best results; they provide great texture and absorb flavors beautifully.
Sweet Corn: Fresh corn is ideal, but frozen works too; just ensure it’s sweet for maximum flavor.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness; opt for high-quality cream for a luxurious finish.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth elevates the taste; if using store-bought, choose low-sodium varieties.
Onions and Garlic: Sauté until fragrant; these aromatics build the foundation of flavor in your bisque.
Bell Peppers: Use colorful bell peppers for visual appeal; they add freshness and sweetness to the dish.
Spices (Cayenne Pepper, Thyme): These spices give it that signature kick; adjust according to your heat preference.
Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up the bisque; fresh lemon juice works wonders here.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened and fragrant—about 5 minutes will suffice.
Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic along with cayenne pepper and dried thyme. Cook for another minute until the garlic becomes aromatic, releasing its lovely scent into your kitchen.
Add Broth and Corn: Pour in chicken broth along with sweet corn. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while you enjoy the enticing aroma filling your home.
Cook the Shrimp: Toss in the shrimp once the broth simmers. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque—this takes about 3-5 minutes at most.
Create Creamy Goodness: Lower heat and stir in heavy cream along with fresh lemon juice. Allow everything to meld together on low heat for another 5 minutes without boiling.
Serve Up Your Bisque!: Ladle generous portions into bowls, topping each with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired. Serve alongside crusty bread for dipping bliss!
Now you’ve mastered a New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque that not only delights but also warms hearts! Enjoy every creamy bite as you transport yourself straight to the bayou with each spoonful!
You Must Know
- New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque is creamy, rich, and perfect for warming up on chilly days
- The combination of succulent shrimp and sweet corn creates a flavor explosion
- Serve it with crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal that friends and family will adore
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the vegetables until tender, then add broth and shrimp for optimal flavor infusion. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly and the flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap shrimp for crab or add extra spices like cayenne for a kick. Personalizing this bisque keeps it exciting and tailored to your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve creaminess; avoid boiling to prevent separation.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a thicker bisque, blend part of the soup before serving
- Always use fresh shrimp for better flavor
- Don’t rush sautéing; it builds essential flavor layers that enhance your dish significantly
A friend once told me that this bisque made her rethink seafood entirely—it was that delicious! Her kids even asked for seconds, which is always a win in my book!
FAQ
Can I make New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead; just reheat gently before serving.
What type of shrimp should I use for this bisque?
Use fresh or frozen shrimp; both work well, but fresh yields better flavor.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque?
Absolutely! Substitute shrimp with mushrooms or tofu for a hearty vegetarian version.

New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque
New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque is a sumptuous, creamy soup that captures the essence of southern cooking. This delightful dish combines tender shrimp and sweet corn in a rich broth, creating a heartwarming experience perfect for any occasion. Its inviting aroma will draw your loved ones to the table, making it an ideal choice for cozy dinners or festive celebrations. Enjoy this bisque with crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal that transports you straight to the bayou!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic, cayenne pepper, and thyme; cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and sweet corn; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3–5 minutes.
- Lower heat, then stir in heavy cream and lemon juice; let it meld on low heat for another 5 minutes without boiling.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Creole
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 170mg