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A warm bowl of creamy shrimp and herb soup with juicy shrimp, fresh herbs, and black pepper in a rich golden broth.

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
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 365 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Instructions
 

  • 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.

Notes

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