Pin it
When winter chills set in nothing beats my favorite Cajun Corn and Shrimp Bisque. The combination of plump shrimp sweet corn kernels and velvety broth creates pure comfort in a bowl. This gluten free recipe brings together all the cozy flavors that make soup season so special.
The Magic Behind This Recipe
The secret to this bisque's incredible flavor lies in the perfect marriage of ingredients. Sweet corn pairs beautifully with smoky bacon while my special Cajun seasoning adds just the right kick. Instead of flour I use creamy pureed potatoes to create that luxurious texture we all crave in a bisque. You'll love how the tender corn and succulent shrimp add beautiful texture in every spoonful.
Kitchen Essentials for Success
- Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is wonderful but honestly I often use frozen ones from my trusted seafood store. Cut them into bite sized pieces or keep them whole for a more dramatic presentation.
- Corn: Sweet fresh corn is my first choice but frozen works beautifully too. Skip the canned stuff it just won't give you that same fresh sweet pop.
- Potatoes: Good old russets are perfect here. Their natural starch creates that silky smooth texture we want.
- Cajun Seasoning: My homemade blend is fantastic but a good quality store bought mix works great too. Just watch out for ones heavy on celery salt.
- Cream: Splurge on heavy whipping cream here. It makes all the difference in creating that dreamy texture.
Let's Make It Together
- Start with the Base
- First get that bacon nice and crispy save those bits for later. The drippings are gold throw your onions and garlic in there and let them get soft and fragrant.
- Build the Flavor
- Now add your corn potatoes and that rich tomato paste. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasonings and pour in your shrimp stock. Let everything simmer until those potatoes are tender about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Perfect Those Shrimp
- Season your shrimp with the rest of our Cajun blend and give them a quick sear in a hot cast iron until they get that beautiful blackened look. Set them aside for now.
- Bring It All Together
- Time to blend your soup until it's silky smooth. Add those gorgeous shrimp back in along with the rest of the corn. Finish with a splash of cream squeeze of lemon juice and fresh parsley.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I swap in sweet lump crab meat when I want to change things up. If you love heat like my husband does feel free to add an extra pinch of Cajun seasoning. Leeks make a lovely substitute for onions giving a more delicate flavor. My favorite trick? Throw those corn cobs into the broth while it simmers. It adds such amazing sweetness just remember to fish them out before blending.
Perfect Pairings
This bisque feels extra special paired with a light arugula pear salad or my quick kale apple slaw. Grab your favorite crusty bread or my homemade garlic butter rolls to soak up every last drop. Top your bowls with those crispy bacon bits some sliced green onions and fresh parsley for that picture perfect finish.
Save It For Later
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Pop them in an airtight container they'll keep beautifully in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. If you want to freeze some portion it out and it'll stay good for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again warm it up slowly on the stovetop. If it seems a bit thick just thin it out with a splash of stock or corn puree.
Creating That Perfect Texture
The magic of this bisque lies in those humble potatoes. No need for flour or cornstarch here the potatoes create that gorgeous silky texture while keeping everything gluten free. Want it thicker? Blend in a few more potato chunks. Too thick? A splash of broth will get it just right.
Trust Me You Need This Recipe
After years of recipe testing this Cajun Corn and Shrimp Bisque has become my most requested dish. Whether it's a cozy family dinner or a special gathering it never fails to impress. That perfect mix of sweet corn tender shrimp and creamy broth makes everyone come back for seconds.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely before using.
- → What can I substitute for shrimp stock?
You can substitute chicken or vegetable stock if shrimp stock isn't available. Or make your own using reserved shrimp shells.
- → How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftover bisque in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
- → Can I use frozen corn?
Yes, both fresh or frozen corn kernels work well in this recipe. No need to thaw frozen corn before using.
- → Why blend only part of the soup?
Blending creates a creamy base while leaving some whole corn kernels and shrimp provides texture and visual appeal.