This One-pot Crab Soup is a combination of sweet crab meat, broth and spices, simmers to a comforting meal. Ideal for blustery evenings or a weeknight seafood craving, this substantial soup delivers coastal flavor directly to your table with little effort.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Easy One-Pot Cooking — Minimal prep and cleanup are the hallmark of this crab soup, making it an ideal quick-and-fuss-free meal.
- Rich, Flavorful Broth – The sweet crab meat adds a delicious complexity when combined with aromatic spices and a creamy or tomato-based broth.
- Customizable & Versatile – Adjust the seasoning, add the veggies, or swap ingredients to make it your own (and delicious)!
Ingredients
- Onion — Provides natural sweetness and depth to the soup’s base, softening and caramelizing slightly as it cooks. It adds to the flavor and melds in with the broth.
- Potatoes — They lend heft and a comforting, starchy texture. As they cook, they give off starch, which thickens the soup while contributing a soft, creamy bite.
- Vinegar – Lifts the flavors with a hint of tanginess, balancing the richness of the half & half and the sweetest notes of the crab meat. It also adds concentration to the broth.
- Half & Half – Adds creaminess without weighing it down. It adds a note of silkiness that helps accentuate the more delicate parts of the crab.
- Flour – Acts as a thickening agent, allowing the broth and cream to tie together in a smooth, slightly rich consistency. It adds substance to the soup.
- Crab Meat – The key player, with a naturally sweet, briny taste that characterizes the soup. It adds a delicate crunch that complements the creamy base perfectly.
- Bay Leaf.
- Garlic — Adds warmth and aromatic depth that complements the seafood and makes the broth more flavorful and inviting.
- Fish Broth – Increases the seafood character of the soup, giving it a deep, ocean flavor that accentuates the natural crab flavor.
- Chicken Broth.
- Old Bay Seasoning — A seasoning blend that most famously includes celery salt but that also has paprika and other warming spices, which not only accentuates the natural sweetness of the crab but also lends the soup a bold, slightly spiced aspect.
- Celery – We’re adding a mild bitterness and slight crunch, balancing out the richness of the soup. It also adds an earthy depth to the broth.
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics — In a large pot, melt butter, or heat oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion, celery and garlic until softened and the air is fragrant.
- Make the Base – Add the flour and stir to coat the vegetables thoroughly, cooking for 1–2 minutes to remove any raw taste of the flour. Add the vinegar, and stir to deglaze the pot.
- Simmer the Broth – Pour in fish broth, chicken broth, bay leaf, Old Bay seasoning, and diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender.
- Make It Creamy – Lower the heat to low and add in the half & half in a steady stream while stirring. Allow the soup to warm through but do not boil, to prevent curdling.
- Add the Crab — Add the crab meat gently at the end, then let it warm through for a few minutes, but not long enough to overcook, so that it remains flaky.
- Finish & Serve – Remove the bay leaf, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley or another dash of Old Bay seasoning. Enjoy!
Variations
- Spicy Cajun Crab Soup — Add a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, a couple dashes of hot sauce, and diced bell peppers for a bold, spicy variation.
- Tomato-Based Crab Soup – Swap half the broth for crushed tomatoes or tomato juice, for a pleasantly spiced, sweetish broth like those in Maryland-style crab soup.
- Lemon & Herb Crab Soup - Fresh thyme and dill, and a generous squeeze of lemon juice make the crab taste bright and citrusy, and bring out its sweet undertones.
Expert Tips
- Use Lump or Claw Crab Meat – Use scratch lump or claw crab meat. (If using canned, drain and rinse it to get rid of excess salt.)
- Don’t Overcook the Crab – Turn off the flame for cooking the leaves and crab, and simply warm it up. Cooking it too long can dry it out — and destroy its delicate texture.
- Increase the Thickness — Mash some of the potatoes, or, for a thicker soup, add an additional teaspoon of flour. If you want a looser texture, add more broth.
- Balance the Flavors — A splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end brightens the crab’s sweetness and keeps the soup from tasting too dense.
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigeration — Crab soup leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Once cooled completely then put away to avoid condensation.
- Reheat — Place the soup in a saucepan and warm over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Do not boil so the half & half does not curdle and crab meat doesn’t toughen.
- Freezing (Not Recommended) — Cream-based soups do not freeze nicely as the dairy can separate. If freezing, store the broth and then add the half & half and crab fresh when reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen crab meat?
Yes, you can use frozen crab meat, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to get rid of moisture. This keeps the soup from getting too watery and preserves the crab’s natural flavor.
Why is my soup not thick?
There isn’t enough flour, the potatoes haven’t broken down enough, or there’s too much liquid — your soup may be too thin. To restore it, try a longer simmer, some potato mashing or a bit of slurry made from flour and broth.
How long will this soup last?
This soup will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat to preserve the texture and taste.
What Should I Serve with Cream of Crab Soup?
- Crusty Bread or Buttery Biscuits – For soaking in the rich, creamy broth.
- Oyster Crackers or Garlic Bread – Provides a crunchy element that complements the velvety mouth-feel.
- Light Seafood Salad — A shrimp cocktail or arugula salad with citrus vinaigrette keeps things leavened.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich – This hearty pairing adds warmth and comfort to the whole meal.
- Crab Cakes – They’re a full meal when paired with the soup.
- Roasted or Steamed Veggies – Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or corn on the cob pair nicely.
If you tried this 30 Minute Rich & Creamy Crab Soup or any other recipe on my website, please feel free to leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it goes in the 📝 comments below. And remember to tag me on Instagram!
Delicious Soup Recipes You’ll Love
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- Super Easy Instant Pot Red Lentil Soup
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Recipe
Creamy Crab Soup
This One-pot Crab Soup is a combination of sweet crab meat, broth and spices, simmers to a comforting meal. Ideal for blustery evenings or a weeknight seafood craving, this substantial soup delivers coastal flavor directly to your table with little effort.
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Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 444kcal
INGREDIENTS
- 2 tablespoon butter or oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 large potatoes peeled and cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 3 cups fish broth
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning more to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon vinegar white or apple cider
- 1 cup half & half
- 8 oz of lump crab meat fresh/canned/thawed from frozen
- Salt & black pepper to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
- Sauté the Aromatics — In a large pot, melt butter, or heat oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion, celery and garlic until softened and the air is fragrant.
- Make the Base – Add the flour and stir to coat the vegetables thoroughly, cooking for 1–2 minutes to remove any raw taste of the flour. Add the vinegar, and stir to deglaze the pot.
- Simmer the Broth – Pour in fish broth, chicken broth, bay leaf, Old Bay seasoning, and diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender.
- Make It Creamy – Lower the heat to low and add in the half & half in a steady stream while stirring. Allow the soup to warm through but do not boil, to prevent curdling.
- Add the Crab — Add the crab meat gently at the end, then let it warm through for a few minutes, but not long enough to overcook, so that it remains flaky.
- Finish & Serve – Remove the bay leaf, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley or another dash of Old Bay seasoning. Enjoy!
NOTES
NUTRITION
Calories: 444kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 123mg | Sodium: 476mg | Potassium: 733mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1016IU | Vitamin C: 21mg | Calcium: 245mg | Iron: 2mg
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?Follow @ambitiousfoodieblog on Instagram, take a shot, and tag it #ambitiousfoodieblog! I love to see what you are making!
Leah Turner says
"Oh wow, this recipe speaks to me on so many levels!" Who doesn’t love a hearty soup full of flavor? Using fresh crab adds such sophistication without too much hassle; I'll be serving this up soon at home!
Maria Morris says
'One pot' meals are always a win in my kitchen, and this creamy crab soup fits the bill perfectly! I appreciate how you’ve included helpful tips about ingredient substitutions too—makes it so versatile for different tastes.
Adeline Fisher says
Wow, this creamy crab soup looks absolutely divine! I appreciate that it doesn’t require any complicated steps, making it accessible for all cooking levels. It sounds like a great dish for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Eden Hughes says
'Creamy crab chowder' is music to my ears! I’m excited by the thought of making this deliciously hearty dish without all the fuss. This will definitely be part of our family dinners once the weather cools down!
Harper Evans says
This creamy crab soup seems like such a delightful treat! Using fresh ingredients makes all the difference, and I can’t wait to see how the Old Bay seasoning adds flavor. It's definitely going on my must-try list!
Ella Morris says
I can already imagine the delightful aroma wafting through my kitchen while this soup simmers. Crab meat and creamy broth together are just heavenly. Plus, the fact that it's quick to make makes it a winner in my book!
Paula Price says
This one-pot crab soup sounds like the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening! I love how simple it is to prepare, and using fresh crab meat really elevates the dish. Can’t wait to give it a try!
Brooke Myers says
This recipe is calling my name! I appreciate how simple it is, yet still feels indulgent with that lump crab meat. It's definitely going on my list for next week’s meal prep – I can't wait to taste it!
Piper Davis says
This crab chowder seems like the perfect dish for special occasions! I'm impressed by how easy you’ve made such an elegant meal sound—definitely saving this recipe for when I'm entertaining guests!
Sara Ross says
What a fantastic recipe for crab soup! I love that you can whip it up in just half an hour. The combination of fresh ingredients and those spices sounds like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for winter nights.
Natalie Hayes says
I can already imagine how delicious this crab soup will be! The mix of potatoes and lump crab meat in a creamy broth is pure comfort. Plus, I love recipes that are easy and quick—this one is a winner!
Maggie Butler says
'Comfort food' has never sounded better than with this crab soup recipe! The blend of textures from the potatoes and lump crab sounds irresistible. This might just become my go-to dish for cold days ahead!
Nora Powell says
I’m all about one-pot meals, especially when they look as good as this crab chowder does! The creamy texture combined with fresh herbs must create such delightful flavors. Can't wait to try this out during our next family dinner!
Celeste Hayes says
This one-pot crab soup sounds like the ultimate cozy meal for chilly evenings. I love how it’s packed with flavors and doesn’t require a lot of pots to clean. It’s perfect for gatherings or just a comforting dinner at home.
Alexa Taylor says
I adore the idea of a creamy crab soup that only takes thirty minutes. It’s amazing how just a few ingredients can come together to create such comfort food. Definitely adding this recipe to my meal plan for next week!
Julia Campbell says
Yum! This crab soup looks so rich and delicious! I really love that you can customize it with different veggies; adding corn sounds like a great idea too. It seems like such an easy yet impressive dish to serve guests.
Charlotte Miller says
"Simple but luxurious" is exactly how I would describe this recipe! Making crab soup in one pot really simplifies things, and using fresh ingredients makes all the difference. I’ll definitely be adding this to my go-to recipes for sure.
Mackenzie Foster says
"Chowder-like" is such an enticing description! I might toss in some corn for extra sweetness—this recipe seems super versatile and easy to adapt!
Kara Cooper says
Wow, this crab soup sounds like the ultimate cozy dish for chilly nights! I'm all about one-pot meals that save on cleanup time, and the fact that it’s packed with crab makes it even better!
Laila James says
Nothing beats a creamy soup when the weather turns cold! I’m definitely going to add some corn and peas to mine for extra color and flavor. Yum!
Cecilia Brooks says
This looks so comforting! Plus, using half-and-half instead of heavy cream is such a smart move. I can already imagine curling up with a bowl of this on a rainy day.
Christina Jenkins says
I’m drooling just reading the ingredients! Fresh crab meat really makes a difference, and I love that you can customize it with other veggies. Can't wait to try it out!
Ruby Lee says
'One pot' is music to my ears! As someone who isn’t keen on doing dishes, I appreciate how easy this recipe seems. Plus, who doesn’t love seafood chowder?
Isabella Collins says
'Make ahead' recipes are lifesavers during busy weeks! This soup sounds like something I'd want to have on hand for last-minute dinners or cozy lunches at home.
Madison Campbell says
Creamy soups are my ultimate weakness, and this one sounds so rich and delicious. Plus, who doesn’t love a recipe that doesn’t require endless dishes to clean afterward?
Margaret Peterson says
I love how simple this recipe is! Crab meat can be so pricey, but using fresh ingredients really elevates a dish. I can’t wait to try this out for my family dinner!
Kendall Brooks says
I’m all about one-pot meals, and this creamy crab soup is right up my alley. The combo of crab and potatoes makes it feel so cozy—definitely adding this to my meal plan!
Caroline Barnes says
The fact that this only takes one pot is a game changer! I can already picture myself enjoying this on a chilly evening while wrapped up in a blanket. Yum!
Destiny Black says
"30 minutes? Yes, please!" This creamy crab soup is just what I've been looking for on busy weeknights when comfort food is essential but time is limited. The blend of flavors you mentioned sounds absolutely mouthwatering!
Jocelyn Coleman says
This crab soup sounds absolutely divine! I love how it can be made in just 30 minutes; perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something comforting and hearty.
Marilyn Edwards says
'Old Bay seasoning' has me sold! It’s such a classic flavor for seafood dishes. I appreciate how you shared tips on making the soup even better!
Linda Rose says
This recipe for one-pot crab soup is totally my vibe! I love that it’s not only rich and comforting but also quick to whip up. It sounds perfect for serving on special occasions or just treating myself on a weeknight.
Natasha Perry says
I’m intrigued by the suggestion of Worcestershire sauce for umami flavor! It’s those little tweaks that can make all the difference in taste. Definitely trying that!
Mary Wells says
Sherry vinegar in crab soup? That’s a game changer! I always have some on hand, and I love that little extra zing it adds to dishes. Can’t wait to whip this up!
Angela Roberts says
'Old Bay seasoning' is a must-have in my kitchen! It pairs so well with crab. I think I’ll double up on it because we love our spices at home.