Get ready to indulge in a deliciously spiced culinary journey through the Chesapeake Bay region with these 18 hearty Maryland crab soup recipes! Maryland is famous for its blue crabs, and what better way to enjoy them than in a warm, comforting bowl of soup? From classic vegetable-based soups to creamy corn and potato chowders, and even spicy Old Bay-inspired concoctions, we’ve got you covered with these mouthwatering recipes. Whether you’re a local looking for new twists on old favorites or just a crab lover searching for inspiration, this collection has something for everyone.
Stay tuned as we dive into the world of Maryland crab soups and discover the perfect recipe to warm your belly and your heart!
Classic Maryland Crab Soup with Vegetables
This hearty soup is a staple of Maryland cuisine, featuring fresh lump crab meat, tender vegetables, and a rich broth that’s sure to warm the soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in crab meat, chicken broth, milk, and Old Bay seasoning.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spicy Old Bay Maryland Crab Soup
Experience the flavors of Maryland with this spicy crab soup recipe, infused with the classic seasoning blend Old Bay.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in Old Bay seasoning and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add crab meat, clam juice, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors meld together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Maryland Crab and Corn Soup
Savor the sweet flavors of Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay with this rich and creamy soup, featuring fresh crab meat, corn, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears)
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat, drained
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Whisk together cream, milk, flour, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add to the pot, whisking constantly.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer; cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in chicken broth, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add corn kernels and crab meat; simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Maryland Crab and Shrimp Bisque
This rich and flavorful bisque is a Maryland classic, featuring fresh crab and shrimp in a creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup cooked shrimp, chopped (about 4-6 count)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add paprika and Old Bay seasoning; stir to combine.
4. Stir in crab meat and shrimp; cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually add cream and milk, whisking constantly.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Slow Cooker Maryland Crab Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of Maryland cuisine, featuring succulent crab meat and rich flavors that simmer to perfection in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, chicken broth, water, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
5. Pour mixture into slow cooker with crab meat. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with chopped chives or scallions, if desired. Enjoy!
Maryland Crab Soup with Sweet Corn and Bacon
This hearty soup is a twist on the classic Maryland crab soup, adding the sweetness of corn and smokiness of bacon for a unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add crab meat, corn kernels, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in crumbled bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maryland Crab and Tomato Basil Soup
A refreshing twist on traditional crab soup, this Maryland-inspired recipe combines sweet tomatoes with succulent crab meat, finished with the brightness of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes, crab meat, chicken broth, heavy cream, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maryland Crab and Sausage Gumbo Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the freshness of Maryland blue crabs with the spicy kick of sausage, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic gumbo broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 1 pound smoked sausage, such as Andouille or Kielbasa, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add crab meat, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let soup cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maryland Crab Soup with Sherry Cream
Experience the rich flavors of Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay with this classic crab soup, elevated by a tangy sherry cream topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sherry wine
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Stir in crab meat, chicken broth, heavy cream, sherry wine, and Old Bay seasoning.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Maryland Crab and Potato Chowder
This hearty chowder is a Maryland classic, combining fresh blue crab with tender potatoes and aromatic spices. Perfect for a chilly day or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups whole milk
Instructions:
1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add potatoes, Old Bay seasoning, and paprika. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add crab meat and stir to combine.
5. Pour in milk and stir to combine.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maryland Crab Soup with Fresh Herbs
Experience the authentic flavors of Maryland’s beloved crab soup with this simple and delicious recipe. This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups fish stock
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Fresh parsley and dill, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Stir in crab meat, fish stock, and Old Bay seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in heavy cream. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and dill.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Maryland Crab and Clam Soup
Savor the flavors of Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay with this hearty and delicious soup, featuring fresh crab and clams.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups clam juice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add flour; whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add clam juice, whisking constantly; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat; simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Stir in crab meat, diced tomatoes, and Old Bay seasoning. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maryland Crab Soup with Andouille Sausage
This hearty soup combines the bold flavors of Maryland crab with the spicy kick of Andouille sausage, perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Andouille sausage; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in crab meat, chicken broth, milk, and Old Bay seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low; let soup cook for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maryland Crab and Vegetable Medley Soup
Maryland Crab and Vegetable Medley Soup Recipe Summary:
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the freshness of vegetables with the richness of Maryland blue crabs, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, chopped
– 1 large red potato, peeled and diced
– 1 pound Maryland blue crab meat, flaked
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, and potato; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in crab meat, chicken broth, water, and Old Bay seasoning.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Maryland Crab Soup with Lemon and Dill
A twist on traditional Maryland crab soup, this recipe adds a burst of citrus flavor from fresh lemon juice and the brightness of chopped dill. Perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in crab meat, chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, and dill. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maryland Crab and Wild Rice Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the freshness of Maryland crab with the nutty taste of wild rice, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup wild rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chicken broth, wild rice, and Old Bay seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Stir in the crab meat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Maryland Crab Soup with Cajun Spices
Experience the bold flavors of Maryland’s famous crab soup infused with the spicy kick of Cajun cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 stalks celery, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, celery, and garlic; sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 10 minutes.
7. Stir in the crab meat; season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Maryland Crab Soup with Coconut Milk and Lime
Experience the rich flavors of Maryland’s famous crab soup with a twist – the creaminess of coconut milk and a squeeze of fresh lime. This unique take on a classic recipe will transport your taste buds to the Chesapeake Bay.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in crab meat, coconut milk, chicken broth, white wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a deliciously spiced culinary journey through Maryland’s iconic crab soup recipes! This article features 18 mouth-watering variations, each bursting with flavor and spice. From classic combinations like Maryland Crab Soup with Vegetables to bold twists like Spicy Old Bay Maryland Crab Soup, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re a fan of creamy textures or hearty broths, these crab soup recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
