This creamy seafood soup is rich, comforting, and full of tender shrimp, delicate herbs, and a silky broth that turns a simple pot of ingredients into a luxurious meal. It is the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with warmth, delivers deep flavor with every spoonful, and works perfectly for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy evenings. The balance of creaminess, seafood sweetness, and fresh herbs makes this dish feel both light and indulgent at the same time.
Ingredients
- 500 g shrimp, peeled and cleaned
- 1 cup cooked fish chunks (optional but recommended)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stick, diced
- 3 tbsp flour
- 4 cups seafood broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper
- Paprika or chili flakes (optional)
Why This Creamy Seafood Soup Works So Well
A good seafood soup should be flavorful without being too heavy, fresh without being too light, and creamy without overpowering the natural sweetness of the shrimp. This recipe strikes exactly that balance. The broth becomes thick and velvety thanks to a small amount of flour, the vegetables add depth, and the cream gives it a silky finish. Shrimp cook quickly and remain juicy, making them perfect for a soup that comes together without much effort.
The herbs—especially dill—give a fresh, aromatic lift that complements the seafood beautifully. Whether served as an appetizer or a full meal with crusty bread, this soup is satisfying and comforting.
How to Make This Soup
Heat olive oil in a large pot, then sauté the onion until it becomes soft and fragrant. Add garlic, carrot, and celery, cooking them until they slightly soften. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring well so it blends smoothly. Slowly pour in the seafood broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the cream and milk, bringing the soup to a gentle simmer but never letting it boil, so the dairy stays smooth. Add the shrimp and fish pieces, cooking only until the shrimp turn pink and tender. Season with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and herbs. Serve warm with fresh bread.
Tips for Making the Perfect Seafood Soup
Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best texture. Add the shrimp toward the end so they do not become rubbery. If you enjoy a deeper seafood flavor, add a handful of clams or crab meat. To make the soup lighter, replace part of the cream with milk or broth. For a richer finish, stir in a small piece of butter right before serving. A squeeze of lemon balances the creaminess and brightens the flavor.
Variations You Can Try
You can easily adapt this recipe. Add mushrooms, corn, or potatoes for a heartier soup. Replace shrimp with salmon, white fish, or mussels. A spicy version can be made with paprika, cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a thinner soup, simply add more broth. To make it low-carb, omit flour and use a splash of cream only.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup with toasted garlic bread, fresh baguette, or soft dinner rolls. It pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or even quinoa for a complete meal. For a restaurant-style presentation, sprinkle extra herbs and a drizzle of olive oil on top.
Storage and Reheating
This soup stores well for up to two days in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently over low heat to avoid splitting the cream. If the soup thickens overnight, add a splash of broth or milk to adjust the consistency. It is best not to freeze cream-based soups, as the texture may change.
Conclusion
This creamy seafood soup is elegant yet incredibly simple to prepare. It brings together tender shrimp, fresh herbs, and a rich broth that tastes like something from a fine restaurant. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe delivers every time. Enjoy it hot, enjoy it fresh, and enjoy the warmth it brings to your table.