Shuck shrimp, fry them, sauté them, or bake them. There are a lot of different ways to enjoy them, and they’re a simple way to make meals taste more like seafood. That’s why it’s so annoying when you heat up leftovers and the shellfish gets tough and chewy. So, we asked a professional chef what his favorite way is to reheat shrimp. Here are some extra options to suit your needs. If all this talk about shrimp makes you hungry for seafood, we’ve also included a few recipes that are great for warming up the next day. Just keep scrolling to learn more.
Shrimp is one of the most versatile ingredients out there. You can grill it fry it, stir fry it – the options are endless! Which is why it’s so common to have leftover shrimp from last night’s dinner. But we all know reheated shrimp can turn rubbery and mushy if you don’t do it right.
So how do you reheat shrimp properly? After researching multiple sources like Woman’s World and Insanely Good Recipes, I’ve discovered several effective methods to revive shrimp and bring back that tender texture.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk through the best techniques for reheating shrimp on the stovetop, in the oven, air fryer, and more. I’ve also included some pro tips and tricks from chefs along the way. Let’s dive in!
Do You Need To Peel Shrimp Before Reheating?
If you’re reheating peeled shrimp you can leave them as is. But for shrimp cooked with the shell on, it’s best to leave the shells on during reheating to help retain moisture.
Once reheated, let the shrimp cool slightly before peeling and eating. The shells will slide right off after heating.
Stovetop Method
The stovetop allows the most control over gentle, even heating. It’s ideal for reheating peeled shrimp on their own. Here’s a simple stovetop technique:
-
Heat 1-2 Tbsp oil or butter in a skillet over medium-low heat.
-
Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
-
For extra flavor, add herbs, garlic, lemon juice or white wine to the pan.
-
Take care not to overcook the shrimp. As soon as they are hot, remove them from the heat.
Oven Method
The oven is great for larger batches of shrimp. Use this technique:
-
Preheat oven to 300°F.
-
Spread shrimp in a single layer in an oven-safe dish. Add a few spoonfuls of water.
-
Cover tightly with foil and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
-
Check frequently to avoid overcooking.
For shrimp in sauces or dishes, try separating the shrimp first, so the sauce doesn’t overcook the shrimp as it reheats.
Air Fryer Method
Air frying locks in crispiness – perfect for reheating breaded shrimp:
-
Preheat air fryer to 350°F.
-
Cook shrimp in a single layer for 2-4 minutes, flipping halfway.
-
Slice into a shrimp to check it’s heated through completely.
-
For no air fryer, use a baking sheet in a 325°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
Microwave Method
The microwave can dry out shrimp quickly. Use as a last resort:
-
Arrange shrimp in a single layer and cover with a damp paper towel.
-
Microwave in 15 second intervals until just warm, not hot.
-
Inspect carefully and microwave again in 5 second bursts if needed.
-
Once reheated, let stand 1-2 minutes before eating.
Skillet Method
Reheating shrimp and sauce in a skillet helps meld the flavors:
-
Melt 1-2 Tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat.
-
Add shrimp and sauce, letting it sizzle for 1 minute.
-
Reduce heat to low, cover and steam for 2 minutes.
-
Uncover, check shrimp is hot and serve.
Tips for Reheating Shrimp
Follow these tips for best results:
-
Bring shrimp to room temp before reheating for even heating.
-
Only reheat once – shrimp texture deteriorates with multiple reheats.
-
Add a little liquid like broth, oil or lemon juice to the pan.
-
Don’t overcook – shrimp only needs a few minutes to reheat.
-
Let rest 1-2 minutes before serving for even heat distribution.
How Long Does Cooked Shrimp Last?
Cooked shrimp lasts 3-4 days in the fridge stored in an airtight container. For best quality and taste, try to eat them within 1-2 days.
What’s the Best Reheating Method?
The skillet method is the easiest and fastest, while imparting extra flavor. The gentle, direct heat helps shrimp reheat evenly without drying out.
Putting It All Together
As you can see, proper reheating is vital for ensuring tender, juicy shrimp. While the microwave may seem convenient, taking a few extra minutes to use the stovetop, oven or air fryer will make all the difference.
The next time you’re looking to revive leftover shrimp without ruining the texture, refer to this guide. In just minutes, you can enjoy succulent shrimp with the simple methods outlined above. Trust me, your tastebuds will thank you!
For crispy shellfish: How to reheat shrimp in the air fryer
Chef Craig says the air fryer is the best way to use up leftover fried shrimp. They can be ready in as little as two minutes. Use his method listed below.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
- In the air fryer basket, arrange the shrimp in a single layer.
- Turn them over once every two to four minutes while they’re cooking.
- Check for doneness by slicing into one shrimp. It should be hot all the way through and not cold in the middle.
- Not having an air fryer? Put the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat them up in a 325°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes, or until they’re fully warmed through.
2 shrimp recipes worth reheating
Shrimp’s versatility makes it a blank canvas for your favorite seasonings and cooking methods. Start with these two recipes from our test kitchen. They taste great hot or cold the next day! (Click through for crab fries and stuffed shrimp recipes that are both tasty.) ).
Convenient store-bought marmalade creates the dipping sauce for these delicious treats.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
- 2 cups plain dry breadcrumbs
- 4 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp. salt
- 1 lb. peeled, deveined large shrimp
- ½ cup olive or vegetable oil
- ½ cup orange marmalade
Directions:
- Active: 20 mins.
- Total time: 20 mins
- Yield: 10 servings
- Line large baking sheet with parchment paper. In bowl, combine coconut, breadcrumbs and salt. Add eggs and flour to 2 separate bowls. Dip shrimp in flour, then eggs, and finally the coconut mixture, making sure to shake off any extra. Transfer to parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In skillet, heat oil over medium-low. Cook shrimp in groups, turning them over once, for two to three minutes on each side until golden. Drain on paper towels. In a bowl that can go in the microwave, melt the marmalade by stirring it every 15 seconds. Serve shrimp with marmalade.
Food Network star Jamie Oliver infuses this simple dish with bold flavors, thanks to a quick 3-ingredient spice rub.
- 8 (10-inch) skewers
- 2 Tbs. olive oil
- 1½ tsp. paprika
- ½ tsp. garlic powder
- ½ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 lb. peeled, deveined jumbo shrimp (21 to 25)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tsp. curry powder
- 1 cup basmati rice
Directions:
- Active: 15 mins
- Total time: 45 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- If using wooden skewers, soak in water 15 minutes. Prepare grill for medium-high direct-heat cooking. In bowl, whisk 1 Tbs. oil, paprika, garlic and pepper flakes; add shrimp. Toss until coated. Thread onto skewers.
- Add the onion and curry to the pot and heat the rest of the oil over medium heat. Cook, stirring, until starting to soften, 7 to 8 minutes. Add rice and 2½ cups water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low. Cover; cook until tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Grill skewers, turning once, 3 to 5 minutes per side. Serve with rice. Garnish as desired.
How to Cook Already Cooked Shrimp Safely & to Retain Flavour?
How do you reheat fried shrimp?
It almost always overcooks the shrimp and turns them into a tough, rubbery mess. The best way to reheat shrimp is in a pan over medium to medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil to the pan and let it preheat. Once it’s hot, add the shrimp and flip them after a few seconds. Remove them from the pan as soon as they’re warmed through.
Is it bad to reheat shrimp in the microwave?
Yes, it is bad to reheat shrimp in the microwave. When you microwave shrimp, the high heat can cause them to shrink and toughen up. This not only makes them less appetizing but also decreases their nutrient value. The best method for reheating shrimp is by poaching them in a little bit of water or butter. So, there you have it.
How long do you cook steamed shrimp?
Steam your shrimp for 5-6 minutes, tossing halfway to ensure even cooking. Fully cooked shrimp will turn opaque in color and have an internal temperature of 145°F. Serve your steamed shrimp hot or chilled. Create a simple meal by adding your favorite vegetable to the steamer alongside the shrimp.