How Long Will Cooked Shrimp Last in the Refrigerator?

Shrimp is one of those versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of dishes, from shrimp scampi to shrimp tacos. It’s easy to cook up a big batch of shrimp for multiple meals throughout the week. But how long will already-cooked shrimp last in the refrigerator?

Knowing the fridge life of cooked shrimp can help you avoid wasting food and reduce your risk of foodborne illness. In this article we’ll cover everything you need to know about proper storage plus signs of spoilage.

The Shelf Life of Cooked Shrimp

Cooked shrimp that has been continuously refrigerated has a shelf life of 3 to 4 days This timeline refers to shrimp that was freshly cooked and properly stored in airtight containers or bags

Here are some general guidelines for maximum fridge life:

• Cooked peeled shrimp will last a bit longer than shrimp cooked in the shell due to less surface area exposed.

• Cooked shrimp that hasn’t been peeled will stay freshest for 3 days.

• Cooked, peeled shrimp keeps well for up to 4 days.

• Shrimp cooked in soups, pasta, or mixed dishes has a shorter shelf life of 2-3 days.

Of course, you should rely on your senses as well. Give cooked shrimp a look and a sniff after a few days. If it has an off odor, color, or slimy texture, it’s best to throw it out.

Proper Storage of Cooked Shrimp

To get the most fridge life out of cooked shrimp, proper storage is key. Here are some tips:

• Allow shrimp to cool completely before refrigerating. Don’t let it sit out more than 2 hours.

• Transfer to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Remove excess moisture.

• Place shrimp on the bottom shelf of the fridge, which is the coldest area.

• If storing for more than 2 days, consider placing a piece of paper towel in the container to absorb extra moisture.

• Cooked shrimp can also be frozen for longer storage.

The cardinal rules are to cool it quickly, seal it airtight, keep it cold, and use it fast for the highest quality cooked shrimp.

How to Tell If Cooked Shrimp Has Gone Bad

It’s always better to be safe than sorry when dealing with seafood. Here are some signs that cooked shrimp has spoiled and should be discarded:

• Slimy texture – Fresh shrimp feels firm. Sliminess indicates bacteria growth.

• Fishy or ammonia smell – Cooked shrimp gives off a mild, briny aroma. A sour or fishy odor is a red flag.

• Discoloration – Look for an unnatural white, blue, or yellow tint.

• Mold growth – You may see fuzzy mold on expired shrimp. Don’t eat any part that looks moldy.

• Dried out appearance – Leftover cooked shrimp dries out quickly in the fridge. It will be safe to eat but the texture suffers.

When in doubt, remember the old adage: “When fish smells fishy, throw it out and don’t be wishy washy about it!”

Can You Freeze Cooked Shrimp?

Freezing is an excellent way to extend the shelf life of cooked shrimp. It pauses bacteria growth so the shrimp stays safe longer. Follow these steps:

• Allow cooked shrimp to cool fully, then place in air-tight freezer bags or containers.

• Remove as much air as possible and seal the container. This prevents freezer burn.

• Label bags with the date and contents.

• Freeze shrimp immediately at 0°F or colder for best quality.

• Frozen cooked shrimp keeps for 2 to 3 months in the freezer.

To thaw, place the sealed bag of frozen shrimp in the fridge. Thaw overnight before using. Avoid thawing at room temp, which allows bacteria growth.

How Should You Reheat Cooked Shrimp?

It’s safe to reheat cooked shrimp that has been continuously refrigerated and is still within its shelf life. Some good reheating methods include:

• Place refrigerated shrimp in a skillet with hot oil or butter. Saute just until warmed through.

• Steam refrigerated shrimp briefly over simmering water.

• Microwave in short bursts, checking often to avoid overcooking.

• Add to soups, pasta dishes or stir fries at the very end to heat through.

Avoid prolonged reheating or cooking methods that may dry out the shrimp. The goal is just to warm it without altering the texture.

Can You Eat Cooked Shrimp Cold?

Yes, it is perfectly safe to eat properly handled cooked shrimp cold. In fact, cold cooked shrimp is common in shrimp cocktail and sushi.

The key is that the shrimp must have been kept chilled at 40°F or below continuously and consumed within the recommended 3-4 day timeline.

Pre-peeled, refrigerated shrimp makes an easy protein boost for cold salads or apps. Simply chop and add it straight to the dish.

Common Questions

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the refrigerator shelf life of cooked shrimp:

How can you tell if thawed, previously frozen shrimp is still good?

Check for signs of spoilage like odor, texture, or color changes. If it looks and smells normal, thawed frozen shrimp is safe to cook and eat.

Can you eat cooked shrimp after the use-by date if it was frozen?

It depends. Frozen shrimp lasts longer but quality declines over time. Taste and inspect thawed shrimp. If it seems off, it’s better to be safe and discard it after the use-by date.

How long does shrimp salad last in the fridge?

Cooked shrimp mixed into any kind of salad will have a shorter shelf life of 2-3 days. The mayonnaise shortens the fridge life compared to plain cooked shrimp.

Can you get food poisoning from cooked shrimp?

Yes. Eating spoiled, raw, or undercooked shrimp can lead to foodborne illnesses. Cook shrimp thoroughly to kill bacteria. And don’t eat it if it shows signs of spoilage.

Can cooked shrimp be eaten cold after 5 days in the fridge?

No. 5 days exceeds the recommended refrigerator shelf life guidelines. For optimal safety and quality, it’s best to throw out cooked shrimp after 4 days in the fridge.

The Bottom Line

Cooked shrimp that has been continuously refrigerated at 40°F or below will keep for 3 to 4 days. For maximum freshness and food safety, store shrimp properly in sealed containers, keep refrigerated, and consume within this timeline.

Look for obvious sensory signs of spoilage like odor and texture changes. Freeze for longer storage. With proper handling, cooked shrimp can be safely enjoyed in a variety of dishes!