Name: Easy Lobster Bisque Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: For Bisque:; 4 lobster tails; 2 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion; 2 carrots; 2 ribs celery; 1 tsp Fresh Thyme; 1 tsp fresh tarragon; 1 tsp Chicken Bouillon Powder; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp Cayenne pepper; 4 garlic cloves; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 3 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1¼ cup dry white wine; 4 cups lobster stock; 1 cup heavy cream; For Garlic Butter Lobster Meat:; 2 tbsp butter; 2 garlic cloves; salt; pepper; cayenne

Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of lobster bisque, a luxurious dish that captures the essence of fresh seafood. This easy-to-follow recipe combines succulent lobster meat with a delicate blend of vegetables, herbs, and spices, resulting in a velvety soup that's perfect for an elegant dinner or special occasion.

Photos of Easy Lobster Bisque Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be commonly found in every household. Fresh lobster tails, tarragon, and thyme are essential components that may require a special trip to the supermarket. Make sure to look for lobster stock or prepare it yourself for the best flavor.

Ingredients for Easy Lobster Bisque Recipe

lobster tails: The main source of seafood flavor and meat for the bisque.

butter: Adds richness and depth to the bisque and garlic butter lobster meat.

olive oil: Used to sauté vegetables and enhance the overall flavor.

onion: Provides a sweet and savory base for the bisque.

carrots: Adds a subtle sweetness and color to the soup.

celery: Contributes a mild, aromatic flavor to the bisque.

thyme: A fresh herb that adds earthy notes to the dish.

tarragon: Imparts a unique, slightly licorice-like flavor to the bisque.

chicken bouillon powder: Enhances the savory taste of the bisque.

salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.

black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the soup.

cayenne pepper: Provides a gentle kick of spice to the bisque and garlic butter lobster meat.

garlic cloves: Adds a robust, aromatic flavor to both the bisque and lobster meat.

tomato paste: Contributes a rich, concentrated tomato flavor and color to the soup.

all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the bisque to a creamy consistency.

dry white wine: Adds acidity and depth of flavor to the bisque.

lobster stock: The base liquid that infuses the bisque with rich seafood flavor.

heavy cream: Creates a luxurious, creamy texture in the bisque.

One reader, Gabbie Dejesus says:

This easy lobster bisque recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and the instructions are straightforward. The garlic butter lobster meat adds an extra layer of deliciousness. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home. Highly recommend!

Gabbie Dejesus

Essential Techniques for Making Lobster Bisque

How to remove lobster meat from shells: Explanation on how to extract the meat from the lobster tails after boiling. How to sweat vegetables: Explanation on cooking vegetables gently over medium heat until they soften without browning. How to blend soup: Explanation on using a blender or immersion blender to achieve a smooth consistency. How to sauté garlic: Explanation on cooking garlic in butter until fragrant without burning.

How To Make Easy Lobster Bisque

Taste a buttery garlic seafood soup with this easy lobster bisque recipe! Enjoy a creamy and smooth soup with big chunks of lobster meat and tails.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 55 minutes

Total: 1 hour 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Bisque:

4lobster tails
2tbspbutter
1tbspolive oil
1onion,finely chopped
2carrots,peeled and finely chopped
2ribscelery,finely chopped
1tspfresh thyme,chopped
1tspfresh tarragon,chopped, plus more to serve
1tspChicken Bouillon Powder
½tspsalt
¼tspblack pepper,fresh cracked
½tspcayenne pepper
4garlic cloves,minced
2tbsptomato paste
3tbspall-purpose flour,or plain flour
1¼cupdry white wine,or sherry
4cupslobster stock,(recipe as follows) or seafood or fish stock
1cupheavy cream

For Garlic Butter Lobster Meat:

2tbspbutter
2garlic cloves,minced
salt,to taste
pepper,to taste
cayenne,to taste

Instructions

Lobster Stock:

Fill a large pot with 5 cups of water. Stir in 1 teaspoon of sea salt and bring to a boil.
Add the lobster tails, cover with lid, and let boil for 5 minutes, or until bright red.
Remove the lobster tails, reserving the liquid stock. When the lobsters have cooled slightly, remove the meat from the shells, reserving the meat and any liquid that comes out of the shells.
Return lobster shells back to the water in the pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, and let simmer for a further 15 minutes to draw as much flavor out of the shells as possible.
While stock is simmering, chop the meat into bite-sized pieces and refrigerate.

Bisque:

Heat butter and oil in a large, heavy-based pot over medium heat.
Sweat the onions, carrots, celery, and fresh herbs. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until soft. Season with the bouillon powder, salt, and pepper.
Stir in 4 cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Mix in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute more to coat vegetables. Sprinkle over flour and cook, while stirring occasionally for a further 2 minutes.
Pour in wine, simmer, and let reduce to half. Stir in lobster stock, reduce heat and gently simmer while stirring occasionally for about 30 minutes, or until liquid has thickened slightly and flavors have blended.
Take off the heat, transfer mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. Alternatively, purée with an immersion blender until very smooth. Return to medium-low heat and stir in heavy cream.

Garlic Butter Lobster Meat:

Melt butter in a skillet pan over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
Add in chopped lobster meat, season with salt, pepper, and cayenne to taste.
Lightly sauté for 1 minute while stirring occasionally, until lobster meat is just warmed through.
Mix ¾ of the lobster meat into the bisque. Pour into individual serving bowls. Top each bowl with remaining lobster meat and extra tarragon. Serve and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

To Remove Lobster Meat:

Place lobster tail on your counter with the back of the tail facing up. Use sharp kitchen shears to cut down through the center to the end of the tail. With your thumbs and fingers, open the shell to loosen it from the meat, opening the meat away from the shell side walls. Pull the meat up from the bottom of the shell to separate the shell from the meat underneath it.
Alternatively, use both hands to press down on tail to crack shell. Hold tail, shell facing down, and pull back on both sides of shell to crack open and remove meat.

To Blend:

Puree right in the pot with an immersion blender or pour into a blender. If using a blender, you may need to blend in batches of two or three to prevent pressure from building up inside the jug from the heat. Make sure you take the center piece out of the lid to let the steam escape.

Nutrition

Calories: 1286.88kcal
Fat: 107.38g
Saturated Fat: 63.73g
Trans Fat: 0.48g
Monounsaturated Fat: 32.67g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.18g
Carbohydrates: 33.03g
Fiber: 3.06g
Sugar: 15.26g
Protein: 38.32g
Cholesterol: 554.35mg
Sodium: 1913.78mg
Calcium: 351.68mg
Potassium: 1135.98mg
Iron: 2.36mg
Vitamin A: 1350.67µg
Vitamin C: 10.40mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Making Lobster Bisque

When making the lobster stock, ensure to simmer the lobster shells for at least 15 minutes to extract maximum flavor. This step is crucial for a rich and flavorful bisque.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Lobster Bisque

Use pre-made lobster stock: Save time by using store-bought lobster stock instead of making your own.

Chop vegetables in advance: Prepare and chop onions, carrots, and celery ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

Pre-cook lobster tails: Boil and remove lobster meat from the shells the day before to cut down on preparation time.

Use an immersion blender: Instead of transferring the bisque to a blender, use an immersion blender directly in the pot for a quicker and easier blend.

Buy pre-minced garlic: Save time by using pre-minced garlic instead of peeling and mincing fresh cloves.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Lobster Bisque Recipe

lobster tails - Substitute with shrimp: Shrimp has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a good alternative for lobster in bisque.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can provide a similar richness and fat content as butter.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and slightly sweeter flavor, which can complement the bisque.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture and a slightly sweet, earthy flavor.
celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel provides a similar crunch and a subtle anise flavor that can enhance the bisque.
fresh thyme - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used in a smaller quantity to provide a similar flavor.
fresh tarragon - Substitute with dried tarragon: Dried tarragon can be used in a smaller quantity to provide a similar flavor.
chicken bouillon powder - Substitute with vegetable bouillon powder: Vegetable bouillon powder can provide a similar depth of flavor without the use of chicken.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with paprika: Paprika provides a milder heat and a smoky flavor.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor in a more concentrated form.
tomato paste - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can provide a similar tomato flavor and thickness.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent in place of flour.
dry white wine - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can provide a similar depth of flavor without the alcohol.
lobster stock - Substitute with fish stock: Fish stock can provide a similar seafood flavor base.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can provide a similar creamy texture with a subtle coconut flavor.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can provide a similar richness and flavor.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor in a more concentrated form.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of saltiness with a slightly different mineral profile.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile.
cayenne - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder can provide a similar heat with a slightly different flavor profile.

How to Beautifully Present Lobster Bisque

Serve in elegant bowls: Choose sleek, white porcelain bowls to highlight the rich color of the lobster bisque.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprig of fresh tarragon on top for a pop of green and a hint of aromatic flavor.
Drizzle with cream: Use a small spoon to drizzle a delicate swirl of heavy cream on the surface of the bisque for an elegant touch.
Top with lobster meat: Place a generous portion of the garlic butter lobster meat in the center of the bisque to showcase the star ingredient.
Add a touch of cayenne: Lightly dust the top with a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick and a vibrant color contrast.
Serve with crusty bread: Pair the bisque with a slice of toasted, crusty bread on the side to provide a satisfying crunch.
Use microgreens: Sprinkle a few microgreens over the top for an additional layer of texture and a fresh, earthy flavor.
Present on a tray: Serve the bowl on a polished wooden tray with a small dish of sea salt and a tiny spoon for seasoning to taste.
Add a lemon wedge: Include a small wedge of lemon on the side to allow diners to add a touch of acidity if desired.
Finish with a touch of olive oil: Drizzle a few drops of high-quality olive oil around the edge of the bisque for a glossy finish and enhanced flavor.

Essential Tools for Making Lobster Bisque

Large pot: Used to boil the lobster tails and create the lobster stock.
Lid: To cover the pot while boiling the lobster tails.
Tongs: Handy for removing the lobster tails from the boiling water.
Cutting board: Essential for chopping the vegetables and lobster meat.
Chef's knife: For chopping the onion, carrots, celery, and lobster meat.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the butter, olive oil, herbs, and spices.
Measuring cups: For measuring the wine, lobster stock, and heavy cream.
Large, heavy-based pot: Used to cook the bisque ingredients and simmer the mixture.
Wooden spoon: For stirring the vegetables, tomato paste, and flour.
Blender: To purée the bisque mixture until smooth.
Immersion blender: An alternative to a regular blender for puréeing the bisque.
Skillet pan: To sauté the garlic butter lobster meat.
Serving bowls: For serving the finished lobster bisque.
Refrigerator: To keep the chopped lobster meat cool until needed.

Storing and Freezing Lobster Bisque

Let the lobster bisque cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled bisque to an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.
If using a container, make sure to leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Store the lobster bisque in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, place the container or bag in the freezer and store for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to serve, thaw the frozen bisque overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the thawed or refrigerated bisque in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If the bisque appears too thick after reheating, you can thin it out with a little lobster stock, chicken broth, or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Avoid freezing the bisque with the garlic butter lobster meat topping, as the texture of the meat may change upon thawing. Instead, prepare the garlic butter lobster meat fresh when serving the reheated bisque.

How To Reheat Lobster Bisque Leftovers

Reheat the lobster bisque in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method ensures even heating and prevents the cream from curdling or separating.
If the bisque has thickened during storage, add a splash of lobster stock, chicken stock, or water to thin it out while reheating. Stir well to incorporate the added liquid.
For a quicker reheating method, use the microwave. Transfer the desired portion of lobster bisque to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it reaches the desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cream to separate.
If you have stored the lobster meat separately from the bisque, reheat it gently in a small skillet with a pat of butter over low heat. Stir occasionally until the meat is warmed through. Add the reheated lobster meat to the bisque just before serving.
To enhance the flavor of the reheated bisque, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or a pinch of fresh herbs like tarragon or chives.
If you have a large quantity of leftover lobster bisque, reheat only the portion you plan to serve. Reheating the entire batch multiple times can affect the quality and texture of the bisque.

Interesting Fact About Lobster Bisque

A fun fact about this lobster bisque recipe is that the use of lobster shells to make lobster stock not only enhances the flavor but also maximizes the use of the entire lobster, making it a more sustainable and economical choice.

Is Making Lobster Bisque at Home Cost-Effective?

Creating a lobster bisque can be a luxurious treat, but it may not be the most cost-effective option for a household. The lobster tails alone can be quite pricey, often ranging from $40 to $60 for four. Adding the cost of vegetables, herbs, wine, and heavy cream, the total can easily reach around $70-$90. While the flavors are undeniably rich and satisfying, the high cost makes it a splurge rather than a regular meal. Overall Verdict: 5/10 for cost-effectiveness. Approximate cost: $70-$90 for a household of 4 people.

Is Lobster Bisque Healthy or Unhealthy?

The lobster bisque recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The recipe uses butter and olive oil for cooking, which are high in saturated and monounsaturated fats.
Heavy cream is a significant source of saturated fat and calories.
The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which is a refined carbohydrate.
Lobster, although a good source of protein, is also high in cholesterol.
The addition of salt, bouillon powder, and salted butter further increases the sodium content of the dish.

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients such as onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and tomato paste, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

To make this lobster bisque healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace butter with a healthier alternative like olive oil or avocado oil, and use it sparingly.
Opt for low-fat or fat-free heavy cream, or replace it with a plant-based alternative such as coconut cream.
Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to increase the fiber content.
Reduce the amount of added salt and bouillon powder, and instead, rely on herbs and spices for flavor.
Include more vegetables in the recipe, such as red bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, to increase the nutrient density of the dish.
Serve the bisque with a side salad or whole grain bread to balance out the meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Lobster Bisque Recipe

This lobster bisque recipe is a delightful blend of rich flavors and creamy textures. The use of fresh herbs like thyme and tarragon adds a fragrant depth, while the cayenne pepper provides a subtle kick. The process of making lobster stock from the shells ensures a robust, seafood essence that permeates the bisque. Incorporating garlic butter lobster meat elevates the dish, adding luxurious, buttery notes. The balance of wine, tomato paste, and heavy cream creates a velvety finish. Overall, this recipe is well-crafted and promises a sophisticated, restaurant-quality bisque that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Easy Lobster Bisque Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Complement the rich and creamy lobster bisque with a vibrant side of roasted asparagus. The lemon zest adds a refreshing zing that cuts through the bisque's richness, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The slight char on the asparagus brings a delightful texture contrast to the smoothness of the bisque.

Garlic Parmesan Croutons: Add a delightful crunch to your lobster bisque with garlic parmesan croutons. These golden, crispy bites are infused with the savory flavors of garlic and parmesan, enhancing the bisque's luxurious taste. Scatter them generously over your bowl for an irresistible combination of textures.

Citrus Arugula Salad: Brighten up your meal with a citrus arugula salad. The peppery arugula paired with juicy citrus segments and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, creamy lobster bisque. This salad brings a burst of freshness and a pop of color to your plate.

Truffle Mashed Potatoes: Indulge in the luxurious combination of lobster bisque and truffle mashed potatoes. The earthy aroma of truffle oil elevates the creamy, buttery mashed potatoes, making them a decadent side that pairs perfectly with the bisque. This duo promises a truly opulent dining experience.

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Bring a touch of summer to your lobster bisque with grilled corn on the cob. The sweet, smoky kernels of corn provide a delightful contrast to the bisque's rich flavors. A sprinkle of chili powder and a squeeze of lime juice add an extra layer of excitement to this classic side.

Similar Recipes to Lobster Bisque

Creamy Crab Bisque: Dive into the luxurious world of seafood soups with this creamy crab bisque. Rich and velvety, this dish combines the sweetness of crab meat with a blend of aromatic vegetables and a touch of sherry for a sophisticated finish.

Shrimp and Corn Chowder: Experience a comforting bowl of shrimp and corn chowder, where the sweetness of corn meets the briny goodness of shrimp. This hearty chowder is perfect for a cozy night in, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Clam Chowder: Indulge in the classic New England clam chowder, a creamy and hearty soup that brings together tender clams, potatoes, and a medley of vegetables. This timeless recipe is a must-try for any seafood lover.

Seafood Gumbo: Spice up your dinner with a bowl of seafood gumbo. This Southern classic is a flavorful mix of shrimp, crab, and sausage, simmered in a rich, roux-based broth with okra and tomatoes.

Salmon Chowder: Warm up with a bowl of salmon chowder, a creamy and nutritious soup that features chunks of salmon, potatoes, and leeks. This dish is perfect for a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Ideal Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Lobster Bisque

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms that are bursting with flavor. The mushroom caps are filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and herbs, then baked to golden perfection. The garlic and parsley add a fresh, aromatic touch, making these bite-sized treats irresistible. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear in no time.

Shrimp Cocktail: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic Shrimp Cocktail. The shrimp are poached to tender perfection and served chilled with a zesty cocktail sauce. The sauce, a blend of ketchup, horseradish, and a hint of lemon juice, provides a tangy and spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the shrimp. Garnish with a slice of lemon and a sprig of parsley for a touch of elegance.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a chocolate lava cake that oozes rich, molten chocolate with every bite. This decadent treat is perfect for those who crave a luxurious end to their meal. The exterior is a delicate cake that gives way to a warm, gooey center. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an added layer of indulgence. A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries can elevate the presentation, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Consider a lemon meringue pie that combines a tangy lemon curd filling with a light, airy meringue topping. The crust is buttery and flaky, providing the perfect base for the zesty lemon filling. The meringue is whipped to perfection, creating a cloud-like texture that contrasts beautifully with the tartness of the lemon. Garnish with a few lemon zest curls and a sprig of mint for a refreshing finish. This dessert is a delightful balance of sweet and sour, making it an ideal choice to cleanse the palate after a rich main course.

Why trust this Easy Lobster Bisque Recipe:

This lobster bisque recipe is crafted with precision and care, ensuring a rich and flavorful experience. The combination of fresh herbs, lobster stock, and heavy cream creates a luxurious texture and depth of flavor. Detailed instructions guide you through each step, from making the lobster stock to preparing the garlic butter lobster meat. Trust in the quality ingredients and meticulous process to deliver a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

Share your thoughts on this easy lobster bisque recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How do I make lobster stock if I don't have lobster tails?

You can use shrimp shells or fish bones as a substitute. Just follow the same steps to extract the flavor. If you're in a pinch, you can also use store-bought seafood stock.

Can I use frozen lobster tails for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water.

What type of dry white wine should I use?

A good rule of thumb is to use a wine that you enjoy drinking. Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay works well. Avoid anything too sweet.

Can I make this bisque ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the bisque a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove. Add the garlic butter lobster meat just before serving for the best flavor.

Is there a way to make this bisque dairy-free?

You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. It will change the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious.