Get ready to indulge in a world of deliciously rich and satisfying soups, all featuring the star ingredient – crab! Whether you’re a fan of classic Maryland-style crab soup or looking to spice things up with some international twists, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 creamy crab soup recipes that are sure to warm your belly and your heart.
From comforting chowders to bold and spicy soups, each recipe has been carefully crafted to showcase the best of what crab has to offer. So go ahead, grab a spoon, and get ready to slurp up some serious flavor!
Creamy Maryland Crab Soup
This hearty soup is a taste of the Chesapeake Bay, featuring fresh crab meat and a rich creamy broth that’s perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can bring the flavors of Maryland to your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in chicken broth, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, stirring constantly.
5. Gently fold in crab meat until well combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Crab Soup
This spicy and creamy soup combines the sweetness of crab with the bold flavors of Thailand. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat, flaked
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in curry paste; cook 1 minute.
4. Add coconut milk, chicken broth, fish sauce, and cumin; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; add crab meat; cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Classic She-Crab Soup
A warm and comforting soup that combines the sweetness of crab with the richness of cream, this Classic She-Crab Soup is a Southern favorite. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add crab meat; stir to combine with onion mixture.
3. Pour in heavy cream and whole milk; bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low; let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Louisiana Crab and Corn Soup
Experience the rich flavors of the Bayou with this hearty soup that combines succulent crab, sweet corn, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the crab meat, chicken broth, heavy cream, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir well.
3. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in frozen corn kernels and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tom Yum Crab Soup
A classic Thai soup, Tom Yum Crab Soup is a flavorful and spicy dish that combines the sweetness of crab with the boldness of lemongrass and chilies. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 cups water or fish stock
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and chopped
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 kaffir lime leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon Tom Yum paste (available at Asian markets)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chilies, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves; sauté until fragrant.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and Tom Yum paste; stir for 1 minute.
4. Pour in water or fish stock and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in crab meat and season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
New England Crab Bisque
Experience the rich flavors of New England’s coastal cuisine with this creamy crab bisque recipe. This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour; whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add clam juice and heavy cream, whisking constantly.
5. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Add crab meat; stir gently to combine.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun Crab and Shrimp Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of Louisiana cuisine, packed with succulent shrimp, crab meat, and spices that will transport your taste buds to the Bayou. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups fish stock or water
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and celery; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and crab meat; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pink.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, fish stock, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 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: 20-25 minutes
Vietnamese Crab and Asparagus Soup
This creamy and flavorful soup is a popular Vietnamese dish that combines the sweetness of asparagus with the richness of crab. With this recipe, you can easily make a delicious and comforting bowl to warm your senses.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add asparagus; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in crab meat, chicken broth, and fish sauce (if using). Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Crab and Potato Soup
Warm up with this rich and satisfying soup that combines the flavors of crab, potatoes, and cheese. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add crab meat, potatoes, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Japanese Crab Miso Soup
Savor the rich flavors of Japan with this hearty crab miso soup, a classic comfort food in Japanese cuisine. This simple and savory recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup dashi broth (or substitute with chicken or vegetable broth)
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 1/2 cup soft-shell crab meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Pour in dashi broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in miso paste until dissolved.
5. Add crab meat, ginger, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until crab is heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caribbean Crab and Callaloo Soup
Experience the rich flavors of the Caribbean with this hearty and delicious soup, featuring succulent crab meat and leafy callaloo greens. This recipe is a twist on the classic West Indian dish, perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 cups callaloo leaves (or spinach)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper; cook until softened.
2. Add curry powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add crab meat, chicken broth, tomato paste, and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in callaloo leaves (or spinach). Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until greens are wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Crab Soup
Warm up with a rich and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of crab with the pungency of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat, flaked
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups (475ml) chicken broth
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and add crab meat. Cook for 5 minutes or until heated through.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Spicy Crab Stew
This spicy crab stew, also known as “Geon-ji-galbi” in Korean, is a popular comfort food that combines the sweetness of crab with the spiciness of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes). This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional dish, perfect for those who want to experience the bold flavors of Korean cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– 2 cups dashi broth (or chicken broth)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add crab meat, gochugaru, dashi broth, water, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Crab and Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder combines sweet corn, tender crab meat, and a rich creamy broth, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 pound lump crab meat, drained and flaked
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add corn kernels, heavy cream, milk, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in flaked crab meat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Lemongrass Crab Soup
This Thai-inspired soup is a harmonious blend of rich flavors and aromas, perfect for a warm evening or a light lunch. The combination of succulent crab meat, lemongrass, and coconut milk creates a creamy and refreshing broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups fish stock or water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lemongrass, onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Add crab meat, coconut milk, fish stock or water, and white pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Manhattan-Style Crab Soup
This rich and creamy soup is a classic Manhattan staple, featuring succulent lump crab meat, aromatics, and a hint of Old Bay seasoning. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a decadent appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 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 crab meat; cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and add heavy cream; stir gently.
6. Season with Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Filipino Crab and Taro Soup
A rich and flavorful Filipino-inspired soup that combines the sweetness of taro with the succulence of crab meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium taro root, peeled and cubed
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
2. Add the taro cubes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the taro is tender.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and crab meat. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Herbed Crab and Mushroom Soup
A rich and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of crab meat with the earthiness of mushrooms and herbs, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 cup crab meat (jumbo lump or flaked)
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. If using white wine, add it to the pot and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in crab meat, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream for added richness.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Crab and Lime Soup
This refreshing soup combines the sweetness of crab with the tanginess of lime, all wrapped up in a flavorful broth inspired by Mexico’s rich culinary heritage. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a starter.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup clam juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in chicken broth, clam juice, lime juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and add crab meat. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Crab and Tomato Soup
Mediterranean Crab and Tomato Soup Recipe
A rich and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the savory taste of crab, all tied together by the warmth of Mediterranean spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat, drained and flaked
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes, broth, cream, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and add crab meat. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 20 deliciously creamy crab soup recipes! From classic She-Crab Soup to spicy Korean Crab Stew, and from Caribbean Crab and Callaloo Soup to Mediterranean Crab and Tomato Soup, there’s something for every palate. Explore the rich flavors of Maryland, Thailand, Louisiana, and more, all featuring succulent crab as the star ingredient. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl or an exotic adventure, these creamy crab soup recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.