Creamy Shrimp & Herb Soup – Cozy Comfort in a Bowl
Tender shrimp in a velvety herb cream broth with garlic, thyme, and dill — comforting, flavorful, and ready in just 40 minutes!
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Servings 4
Calories 365 kcal
- 1 lb 450 g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 carrot grated or finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk chopped
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour optional, for thickening
- 3 cups seafood or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup milk or more broth for dairy-free
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried dill
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or dill chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges optional, for serving
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
Add the Flour (Optional): Sprinkle in the flour and stir for about 1 minute to create a light roux.
Pour in the Broth: Gradually whisk in the broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes to develop the base flavor.
Add Shrimp & Seasonings: Stir in the shrimp, paprika, thyme, dill, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–6 minutes, or until shrimp turn pink and tender.
Add Cream & Milk: Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and milk. Let the soup warm through — do not boil once the cream is added.
Taste & Serve: Adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill, and serve hot with lemon wedges or crusty bread.
Tips & Variations
Thicker texture: Add more flour or reduce the broth slightly.
Extra herbs: Try fresh basil, tarragon, or chives.
Zesty finish: A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavors.
Lighter version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half.
Protein swap: Use scallops, crab, or chicken for variety.
Storage
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gently to prevent curdling.
Reheating: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling.
Keyword cozy soup recipes, creamy seafood soup, easy weeknight meal, shrimp cream soup, shrimp dinner recipes