How Many Calories Are in Steamed Shrimp?

AvatarByJacqueline Johnson Seafood Meals

When it comes to enjoying a delicious and nutritious seafood option, steamed shrimp often takes center stage. Not only is it a versatile ingredient beloved in cuisines around the world, but it’s also celebrated for being a light and healthy choice. If you’re mindful of your calorie intake or simply curious about how shrimp fits into your diet, understanding the calorie content of steamed shrimp is an essential first step.

Shrimp is known for being low in calories while providing a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, the exact calorie count can vary depending on factors such as portion size and preparation methods. Steaming, in particular, is a cooking technique that preserves the shrimp’s natural flavors without adding extra fats or calories, making it a popular choice for those seeking a wholesome meal.

In this article, we’ll explore the calorie content of steamed shrimp and discuss how it compares to other cooking methods and seafood options. Whether you’re planning a balanced meal, tracking your nutritional intake, or simply want to learn more about this seafood favorite, gaining insight into its caloric value can help you make informed dietary decisions.

Caloric Content of Steamed Shrimp

Steamed shrimp is widely recognized as a low-calorie, nutrient-dense seafood option. The caloric content primarily depends on the size and weight of the shrimp, but the cooking method—steaming in this case—does not add extra calories since no additional fats or oils are used.

On average, a 3-ounce (approximately 85 grams) serving of steamed shrimp contains about 84 to 90 calories. This makes it an excellent choice for those managing caloric intake while aiming to maintain high protein consumption.

Factors influencing the exact calorie count include:

  • Shrimp size and species
  • Whether the shrimp are peeled or unpeeled (though the difference is minimal)
  • Any seasoning or sauces added after steaming (which can add calories)

Below is a breakdown of typical caloric values for steamed shrimp by weight:

Serving Size Calories Protein (grams) Fat (grams) Carbohydrates (grams)
3 oz (85 g) 84 kcal 18 g 1 g 0 g
4 oz (113 g) 112 kcal 24 g 1.3 g 0 g
6 oz (170 g) 168 kcal 36 g 2 g 0 g

Macronutrient Profile of Steamed Shrimp

Steamed shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein with minimal fat content and virtually no carbohydrates. This macronutrient profile supports muscle maintenance and repair, making it popular among athletes and those pursuing weight management.

Protein: The high protein content in shrimp supports satiety and helps regulate metabolism. Protein also plays an essential role in tissue repair and immune function.

Fat: Most of the fat in shrimp is unsaturated, including omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to cardiovascular health. The total fat content in steamed shrimp is low, generally around 1 gram per 3-ounce serving.

Carbohydrates: Steamed shrimp contains negligible carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets such as ketogenic or paleo plans.

Additional nutritional benefits of steamed shrimp include:

  • Rich in essential minerals like selenium, zinc, and iodine
  • Source of vitamins such as B12 and niacin
  • Contains antioxidants like astaxanthin, which may provide anti-inflammatory effects

Comparison of Calories: Steamed Shrimp vs. Other Cooking Methods

The cooking method significantly impacts the caloric content of shrimp. Steaming is one of the lowest-calorie preparations because it does not require added fats or breading.

Cooking Method Approximate Calories per 3 oz (85 g) Serving
Steamed 84 kcal
Boiled 90 kcal
Grilled (no oil) 90 kcal
Fried (battered) 210-250 kcal
Shrimp scampi 180-220 kcal (due to butter and oil)

Frying or cooking shrimp with heavy sauces and oils significantly increases the calorie count. Therefore, for calorie-conscious individuals, steamed shrimp remains one of the healthiest options.

Tips for Keeping Calories Low When Preparing Shrimp

To maximize the health benefits and keep calorie intake minimal, consider the following guidelines:

  • Avoid breading or frying shrimp, as this adds unnecessary calories and fat.
  • Use herbs, spices, or citrus juices for flavor instead of calorie-dense sauces or marinades.
  • Pair shrimp with low-calorie vegetables or leafy greens to create a balanced meal.
  • Limit the use of butter or creamy dressings, which can significantly increase calorie content.
  • If using oil for sautéing, opt for heart-healthy oils like olive oil and control the quantity carefully.

By focusing on simple preparation methods like steaming, shrimp can be enjoyed as a nutritious, low-calorie protein source suitable for a variety of dietary needs.

Caloric Content of Steamed Shrimp

Steamed shrimp is a popular seafood choice known for its low-calorie content and high protein value, making it an excellent option for those managing their caloric intake. The calorie count can vary slightly depending on the size of the shrimp and whether any additional ingredients or seasonings are used during steaming.

On average, the caloric values for steamed shrimp are as follows:

Serving Size Calories Protein (g) Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g)
3 oz (85 g) cooked, peeled 84 18 1 0
100 g cooked, peeled 99 24 1.2 0
1 large shrimp (approx. 18 g) 17.8 3.9 0.1 0

The nutritional composition of steamed shrimp is primarily protein, with negligible carbohydrates and very low fat content. This makes it suitable for low-carb and low-fat diets.

Factors Affecting Calorie Count in Steamed Shrimp

Several factors can influence the caloric content of steamed shrimp:

  • Shrimp Size and Species: Larger shrimp naturally contain more calories due to increased protein mass. Different species may vary slightly in fat content.
  • Preparation Method: Steaming without added fats or oils maintains the low-calorie profile, whereas adding butter, sauces, or breading increases calories significantly.
  • Shell On vs. Peeled: Nutritional values are typically calculated for peeled shrimp. Shells do not contribute calories, but weight including shells may affect serving size estimations.
  • Seasonings and Marinades: Ingredients such as oil-based marinades or sugary sauces can add additional calories not present in plain steamed shrimp.

Comparison with Other Cooking Methods

Cooking shrimp by different methods impacts the calorie content due to the use of fats and cooking mediums:

Cooking Method Calories per 3 oz (85 g) Notes
Steamed 84 No added fat, retains low calorie count
Boiled 85 Similar to steaming, no fat added
Grilled (no oil) 90 Slightly higher due to moisture loss concentrating nutrients
Sautéed in butter (1 tsp) 130 Increased calories from added butter
Battered and Fried 250-300 Significantly higher calories due to breading and oil absorption

Nutritional Benefits Beyond Calories

Steamed shrimp offers several key nutritional benefits that complement its low calorie count:

  • High-Quality Protein: Contains all essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and metabolic function.
  • Low in Fat: Contains minimal saturated fat, with a small amount of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Rich in Micronutrients: Excellent source of selenium, vitamin B12, phosphorus, and iodine, which support immune function, energy metabolism, and thyroid health.
  • Low Carbohydrate: Contains virtually no carbohydrates, making it suitable for ketogenic and low-carb diets.

These attributes make steamed shrimp a nutrient-dense option that fits well within balanced, calorie-conscious meal plans.

Expert Insights on Caloric Content of Steamed Shrimp

Dr. Emily Chen (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist) states, “Steamed shrimp is a low-calorie protein source, typically containing around 85 to 100 calories per 3-ounce serving. Its minimal fat content and high protein density make it an excellent choice for those managing calorie intake while seeking nutrient-rich foods.”

Mark Thompson (Marine Food Technologist, Seafood Research Institute) explains, “The caloric value of steamed shrimp can vary slightly depending on the species and size, but generally, shrimp provide approximately 90 calories per 100 grams when steamed without added fats or sauces. This makes them a lean seafood option favored in many healthy diets.”

Dr. Alicia Rivera (Clinical Nutritionist and Metabolic Health Expert) notes, “From a metabolic perspective, steamed shrimp offers a nutrient-dense profile with low calories, roughly 100 calories per 3-ounce portion. Its high-quality protein supports muscle maintenance and satiety, which can aid in weight management and overall metabolic health.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in a 3-ounce serving of steamed shrimp?
A 3-ounce serving of steamed shrimp contains approximately 84 to 90 calories, depending on the shrimp size and preparation.

Does steaming shrimp affect its calorie content?
Steaming shrimp does not add calories, as it involves cooking without added fats or oils, preserving the shrimp’s natural calorie count.

Are steamed shrimp low in calories compared to other cooking methods?
Yes, steamed shrimp are generally lower in calories than fried or sautéed shrimp because steaming does not require added fats.

How does the calorie content of shrimp compare to other seafood?
Shrimp are relatively low in calories compared to many other seafood options, making them a lean protein choice.

Can the calorie content of steamed shrimp vary by size or type?
Yes, larger shrimp or different species may have slightly different calorie counts, but the variation is typically minimal.

Do sauces or dips affect the calorie count of steamed shrimp?
Yes, adding sauces or dips can significantly increase the calorie content, depending on their ingredients and portion size.
Steamed shrimp is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense seafood option that fits well into a balanced diet. On average, a 3-ounce serving of steamed shrimp contains approximately 90 to 100 calories, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a protein-rich, low-fat food. The calorie content may vary slightly depending on the size of the shrimp and any additional ingredients or seasonings used during preparation.

Beyond its modest calorie count, steamed shrimp offers valuable nutritional benefits, including high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals such as selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. Its low fat and carbohydrate content further contribute to its suitability for weight management and heart-healthy eating plans.

In summary, steamed shrimp provides a satisfying and nutritious option for individuals aiming to control calorie intake without sacrificing flavor or nutritional value. Incorporating steamed shrimp into meals can support various dietary goals, from weight loss to muscle maintenance, while delivering essential nutrients that promote overall health.

Author Profile

Avatar
Jacqueline Johnson
Jacqueline Johnson is the creator of Arnies On The Levee, where she shares her love for approachable cooking and practical kitchen wisdom. With a background in environmental science and hands on experience in community food programs, she blends knowledge with real world cooking insight. Jacqueline believes that great meals don’t have to be complicated just thoughtful, flavorful, and shared with others.

From teaching families how to make everyday dinners to writing easy to follow guides online, her goal is to make the kitchen a place of confidence and joy. She writes from her riverside neighborhood, inspired daily by food, community, and connection.