Ina Garten Lobster Bisque Recipe

This Ina Garten Lobster Bisque recipe is creamy and luxurious, which uses homemade lobster stock and fresh lobster meat for rich flavor. It’s an elegant soup perfect for holidays or dinner parties, ready in about 1 hour 35 minutes.

Jump to Recipe

Ina Garten Lobster Bisque Recipe Ingredients

For the Lobster Stock

• Lobster shells – from 2 lobsters (about 1 ½ pounds each)
• 2 carrots, roughly chopped
• 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
• 1 yellow onion, roughly chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, smashed
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 6 cups water
• 1 tsp fresh thyme
• 1 bay leaf

For the Bisque

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp paprika
• Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste
• 2 cups cooked lobster meat, chopped
• 2 tbsp dry sherry (optional)

How To Make Ina Garten Lobster Bisque Recipe

1. Sauté vegetables and shells: In a large pot, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add lobster shells, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic; cook 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Add tomato paste and wine: Stir in tomato paste, cook 1 minute, then deglaze with white wine.
3. Simmer the stock: Add water, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 45 minutes. Strain through a fine mesh sieve and discard solids.
4. Make a roux: In the same pot, melt remaining butter. Whisk in flour and cook 2–3 minutes until golden.
5. Add lobster stock: Slowly whisk in strained stock; simmer 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
6. Finish with cream and spices: Stir in heavy cream, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
7. Add lobster meat: Gently stir in lobster meat and simmer 5 minutes to warm through. Add sherry if desired.
8. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra cream, paprika, or fresh herbs.

Recipe Tips

• Can I use store-bought stock? Yes, but homemade lobster stock gives the best flavor.
• How to thicken bisque naturally: Simmer longer or add a little extra roux (flour and butter mixture).
• Can I use frozen lobster meat? Absolutely—just thaw and pat dry before adding.
• Best wine substitute: Use seafood stock or chicken broth if avoiding alcohol.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the stock a day in advance and finish the bisque before serving.

What To Serve With Ina Garten Lobster Bisque

This elegant soup pairs well with light sides:

• Crusty French bread or baguette
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Roasted asparagus or green beans
• Chardonnay or Champagne for pairing

How To Store Ina Garten Lobster Bisque

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid curdling.
Freeze: Not recommended, as dairy-based bisques can separate when thawed.

Ina Garten Lobster Bisque Nutrition Facts

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: ~18g
• Carbohydrates: ~10g
• Fat: ~26g
• Sodium: ~550mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I make lobster bisque without cream?
Yes, substitute half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version.

Why is my bisque too thin?
Simmer longer or add an extra tablespoon of flour to the roux.

Can I make lobster bisque ahead of time?
Yes, but add the lobster meat just before serving to keep it tender.

What’s the best garnish for lobster bisque?
A drizzle of cream, fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of paprika works beautifully.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten French Onion Soup Recipe
• Ina Garten Cream of Asparagus Soup Recipe
• Ina Garten Beef And Barley Soup Recipe