Can You Microwave Raw Shrimp? The Pros, Cons, and How To Do It Safely

I don’t know about you but I love shrimp. It’s delicious versatile, and relatively easy to prepare. However, we’ve all been there – it’s dinner time, and you realize you forgot to thaw the shrimp! Now you’re wondering, can I just pop it in the microwave to cook it?

Microwaving raw shrimp is controversial in the cooking world. Some chefs argue microwaves should never be used to cook raw proteins. However others say it’s safe as long as you follow a few guidelines.

In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of microwaving raw shrimp. We’ll also give tips to ensure you do it safely, along with microwave shrimp recipes to try. Let’s dive in!

The Case For Microwaving Shrimp

First, let’s look at reasons why microwaving raw shrimp could be a good option:

• It’s Fast: If you’re in a rush, the microwave can cook shrimp in just 2-3 minutes, versus 6-8 minutes in a skillet. This makes it a great weeknight dinner shortcut.

• Minimal Cleanup Microwaving shrimp produces no splatters or messy pans to scrub later All you need is a microwave-safe dish

• Retains Moisture: The microwave’s rapid cooking helps keep moisture locked in the shrimp, instead of drying it out.

• Easy to Season: You can toss raw shrimp with seasoning blends before microwaving for built-in flavor.

• Consistent Results: Microwaves deliver even, all-over heat, so shrimp cooks uniformly. No shrimp are over or underdone.

• Space Saver: Microwaves don’t require burner or oven space for cooking proteins.

For these reasons, some people are big proponents of microwave shrimp. When time, convenience, and minimal cleanup are top priorities, the microwave can deliver tasty shrimp.

Potential Downsides of Microwaved Shrimp

However, there are also some potential cons to keep in mind:

• Rubbery Texture: Without being able to achieve a sear, shrimp can turn out rubbery in texture.

• Moisture Loss: While moisture loss is reduced, some can still occur in the microwave.

• Uneven Cooking: If shrimp are piled or clustered together, some pieces may cook faster.

• Less Browning: You won’t get the nice caramelized, browned exterior you would from pan searing.

• Less Control: It can be harder to adjust cook times compared to the stovetop.

• Not Ideal Flavor: Some feel the flavor is not as good as shrimp cooked on the stove or grill.

Microwaving Shrimp Safely

If you do want to microwave raw shrimp, there are some safety guidelines to follow:

• Defrost fully: Only microwave completely thawed, not frozen, shrimp.

• Don’t overcrowd: Spread shrimp out evenly in a single layer on a microwave-safe dish. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking.

• Use a cover: Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel. This prevents splattering.

• Stir periodically: Stir shrimp halfway through so they cook evenly.

• Cook to proper temperature: Cook until shrimp reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

• Let rest: Let shrimp rest 2-3 minutes after microwaving before eating.

Following these tips helps prevent rubbery, unevenly cooked shrimp and ensures any bacteria is eliminated.

I recommend starting with just 1 pound of shrimp and microwaving in 30 second intervals, stirring between each, until cooked through. Monitor temperature with a food thermometer for safety.

Simple Microwave Shrimp Recipes

To maximize flavor, I suggest seasoning shrimp before microwaving. Here are two easy microwave shrimp recipes to try:

Lemony Garlic Shrimp

• 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper

1. Toss all ingredients together in a microwave-safe dish.
2. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, pausing halfway to stir.
3. Cook until shrimp reach 145°F internally.
4. Let rest 2 minutes before serving.

Cajun Shrimp

• 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

1. Toss shrimp with remaining ingredients.
2. Microwave on high 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
3. Cook until shrimp reach 145°F.
4. Allow to rest 2 minutes before eating.

These quick and easy shrimp recipes infuse lots of flavor in just minutes in the microwave. Adjust cook times as needed to reach safe internal temperatures.

The Verdict: Is Microwaving Raw Shrimp Worth It?

At the end of the day, whether or not you should microwave raw shrimp comes down to personal cooking preferences.

If you value speed and convenience above all, then microwaving shrimp is likely worth it to you. As long as you follow safety guidelines, it can deliver decent shrimp fast.

However, for the best texture and flavor, pan searing, baking, or grilling shrimp are superior cooking methods. While taking more time and effort, you’ll be rewarded with plump, juicy, flavorful shrimp.

My recommendation is reserving the microwave for emergencies when you’ve defrosted no other protein. Otherwise, plan ahead to cook shrimp through traditional stovetop or oven recipes for the very best results.