Red Lobster Lobster Bisque Recipe

Recreating Red Lobster’s famous lobster bisque at home lets you enjoy a restaurant-quality meal. 

You only need a few key ingredients like fresh lobsters, fish stock, cream, and a splash of cognac to achieve those rich and comforting flavors.

One secret is to let the lobster shells simmer in the broth for a bit longer to enhance the depth of flavor.

Don’t rush the process—the simmering and careful seasoning bring out the best in the recipe.

Get ready to savor a little bit of elegance in every spoonful!

How to Make Red Lobster Lobster Bisque Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 Lobsters (1 1/4 – 1 1/2 lb. each)
• 6 cups Water
• 2 cups Dry White Wine
• 2 cups Fish Stock
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 1 Onion (diced)
• 2 Carrots (diced)
• 2 Celery Stalks (diced)
• 1/4 cup Butter
• 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
• 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1/2 tsp Salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Boil lobsters in a large pot with water for about 8-10 minutes until bright red.

Remove the lobsters, and let them cool.

Save the cooking water.

Step 2:

Extract the meat from the lobsters, reserving the shells.

Chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.

Keep it in the refrigerator for later.

Step 3:

In a pot, melt butter over medium heat.

Add onion, carrots, and celery.

Cook until softened.

Stir in tomato paste and flour to create a roux.

Step 4:

Add white wine to deglaze the pan.

Mix in fish stock and reserved cooking water.

Place lobster shells back in to add flavor.

Simmer for 20 minutes and strain the broth.

Step 5:

Bring the strained broth back to low heat.

Add cream and lobster meat.

Let it heat through before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Fresh Lobster is Best

Using fresh lobster you cook yourself delivers the richest taste.

Using the shells enhances the broth’s flavor significantly.

The Key is in the Roux

Cook your roux over medium heat to prevent burning.

A smooth roux helps thicken the bisque perfectly.

Balancing Flavors

Taste and adjust salt and pepper near the end of cooking.

A little seasoning brings out the lobster’s natural sweetness.

Strain the Broth Thoroughly

Ensure to remove all shell fragments for a silky bisque.

A fine sieve or cheesecloth can help achieve this.

Store and Reheat with Care

For leftovers, keep the bisque in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Gently reheat over low heat to avoid curdling the cream.

What to Serve with Red Lobster Lobster Bisque Recipe

Crusty Bread

When you’re enjoying lobster bisque, you’ll want something to soak up the creamy goodness.

A crusty baguette or warm sourdough slices are perfect companions.

You might find yourself catching every last drop with a fresh slice!

Simple Green Salad

A crisp, green salad can balance the richness of the bisque beautifully.

Try one with arugula or mixed greens, topped with a light vinaigrette.

The fresh, peppery bite adds a refreshing contrast to the soup.

Savory Cheese Biscuits

Cheddar Bay Biscuits are famous for a reason.

They’re cheesy and buttery, making them a great match for a seafood dish like lobster bisque.

You can enjoy dipping them and savoring each bite.

Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus with a hint of lemon offers a delightful touch of elegance.

The slightly charred taste pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy broth.

It’s a simple yet elegant side that’s easy to prepare.

Maple Candied Bacon

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try serving some maple candied bacon alongside your bisque?

It introduces a sweet and salty contrast.

The flavors complement the bisque and add a creative twist to the meal.

Variations and Substitutions

When making lobster bisque, experimenting with different ingredients can lead to exciting results!

You can swap lobster meat with shrimp or crab if lobsters are hard to find.

Both make a savory alternative, creating a different texture and flavor profile.

Vegetarian Option

Consider making a vegetarian version with roasted vegetables.

Carrots, potatoes, and a splash of coconut milk create a rich and creamy dish reminiscent of traditional bisque.

Spicing It Up

Add spices like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a warm kick that livens the soup.

These spices blend well to enhance the seafood flavor and add a bit of heat.

Dairy Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, try coconut or almond milk instead of heavy cream.

These alternatives keep it creamy without compromising the bisque’s smooth texture.

Wine Alternatives

When white wine isn’t available, apple juice or chicken broth can maintain the broth’s depth.

They offer different but appealing flavors if you’re avoiding alcohol.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on your preferences and availability!

Experimenting with these variations can turn the bisque into a unique creation every time you make it.

How to Store Leftover Lobster Bisque

Refrigeration Tips

Your leftover lobster bisque will stay fresh for up to three days when kept covered in the refrigerator.

Use an airtight container to help maintain the bisque’s flavor and texture.

Freezing Options

If you want to save your bisque for more than a few days, consider freezing it in quart-sized freezer bags.

Make sure to label the date on the outside of the bag before storing it in the freezer for up to four weeks.

Extra Storage Tips

When refrigerating or freezing, place the container or bag in the coldest part of your appliance to best keep the soup fresh.

If needed, don’t hesitate to add a splash of cream to help bring it back to its original texture when you thaw and reheat it later.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Adding Too Much Flour

One common mistake when making lobster bisque is adding too much flour as a thickener.

This can lead to a soup that is too dense and not the luxurious texture you’re aiming for.

To avoid this, gradually add flour and mix thoroughly until you get the perfect consistency.

Overcooking the Lobster

Overcooking the lobster is a mistake that could ruin the entire dish.

You want the lobster to be tender, not chewy or tough.

Be mindful of cooking times and use a timer to keep everything spot on!

Neglecting Fresh Ingredients

Using old or lower-quality ingredients is a mistake that affects the bisque’s flavor.

Always opt for the freshest lobster and veggies to make your bisque taste amazing.

Fresh ingredients will ensure a rich and flavorful experience you’re hoping for.