Cooked shrimp is safe to eat within two hours of cooking time at room temperature. However, there are other ways to store them properly so they can last even longer. If you keep reading, I’ll tell you how to store them best in the fridge or freezer so you can have them on hand quickly for quick meal prep.
Shrimp is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes like pasta, salads, tacos, and more It’s common to cook extra shrimp and have leftovers But how long does cooked shrimp last in the fridge or freezer? Knowing the right storage methods can help you enjoy shrimp safely and optimize its shelf life.
In this article we’ll cover everything you need to know about storing cooked shrimp
How Long Does Cooked Shrimp Last in the Fridge?
Cooked shrimp can be kept refrigerated for 3-4 days. Place the shrimp in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove any moisture or broth first. Keep the shrimp towards the back of the fridge, at a temperature below 40°F.
Refrigeration slows down bacteria growth that causes shrimp to spoil quickly at room temperature. If stored properly, cooked shrimp keeps its texture and flavor for a few days.
Pay attention to changes in smell, color, or sliminess, which indicate spoilage. Cooked shrimp is no longer good if it has an off-odor, grey/yellow tinge, or slippery texture. Discard such shrimp right away.
Maximizing Fridge Shelf Life
You can maximize the shelf life of cooked shrimp in the fridge by:
- Cooking it correctly: Avoid overcooking which makes shrimp tough and rubbery.
- Cooling it quickly: Don’t leave shrimp at room temperature. Refrigerate within 1-2 hours.
- Storing it properly: Use airtight containers; don’t overpack them.
- Monitoring it daily: Do a sight and smell check for any spoilage signs.
- Handling it hygienically: Use clean utensils; don’t cross-contaminate.
Can You Freeze Cooked Shrimp?
Yes, freezing is an excellent way to extend the shelf life of cooked shrimp for later use. It can keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To freeze cooked shrimp:
- Let it cool completely first.
- Transfer to freezer bags or airtight containers, removing excess moisture.
- Seal tightly and label with the date.
- Flatten bags to remove air pockets and maximize space.
- Place bags flat in the freezer so they freeze evenly.
Frozen shrimp properly sealed in freezer bags or containers keeps its texture and flavor surprisingly well.
Tips for Freezing Cooked Shrimp
Follow these tips to freeze cooked shrimp correctly:
- Freeze it as soon as possible after cooking.
- Avoid freezing shrimp in large clumps. Spread it out in a single layer first.
- Use only high-quality, fresh shrimp to freeze. Discard any old or questionable shrimp.
- Don’t refreeze shrimp that has been thawed. Cook it immediately.
- Place shrimp towards the back of the freezer where temperature is most consistent.
How to Thaw Frozen Shrimp
Always thaw frozen shrimp properly before using:
- Refrigerator thawing: Keep the bag sealed and place in the fridge overnight or up to 24 hours.
- Cold water method: Seal shrimp in a bag submerged in cold water. Change water every 30 mins.
- Microwave: Cook shrimp immediately after microwave thawing as it will start to cook.
Do not thaw shrimp at room temperature or in hot water. This allows bacteria to grow rapidly. Cook thawed shrimp right away rather than refreezing.
How Many Times Can You Refrigerate and Freeze Shrimp?
It’s best to freeze cooked shrimp only once. Refreezing or repeated thawing weakens the structure of shrimp’s proteins. This causes mushiness in texture and impairment in flavor.
Refrigerating previously frozen shrimp is fine for another 3-4 days. But the quality deteriorates faster with each subsequent refrigeration cycle.
For highest quality, try to use up leftovers within a couple cycles of proper refrigeration and freezing. Cook smaller batches if you don’t plan to finish quickly.
Can You Refrigerate Thawed Shrimp?
Yes, thawed shrimp can be refrigerated for 3-4 days if it was frozen properly. Follow safe thawing methods and refrigerate immediately after the shrimp is thawed. Check for any deterioration in smell, color, or texture.
Avoid thawing more shrimp than you can eat within a few days. Refreezing thawed shrimp is not recommended as it affects the taste and texture severely.
How Long Does Cooked Shrimp Last in the Fridge Once Thawed?
Thawed shrimp lasts 3-4 days in the fridge, similar to fresh cooked shrimp. The freezing and thawing process doesn’t significantly impact the refrigerated shelf life. Just make sure to handle thawed shrimp hygienically.
Monitor thawed shrimp daily. Refrigerate garnishes like lemon wedges separately. Don’t mix thawed shrimp into dishes more than a day before eating.
Signs Your Cooked Shrimp Has Spoiled
Watch for these signs that cooked shrimp has gone bad:
- Slimy texture and mushiness
- Dull, grayish color instead of pink
- Ammonia or rotten odor
- Mold growth
- Unusual dark spots
- Extremely dry appearance
If you notice any such red flags, it’s safest to discard the shrimp right away even if within the recommended storage timeline. Don’t risk eating spoiled shrimp.
Storing Cooked Shrimp In Mixed Dishes
The shelf life of cooked shrimp decreases once it’s mixed into pasta, salad, or other dishes. Cooked shrimp mixed into recipes should be eaten within 2-3 days and kept refrigerated.
Make sure to stir in the shrimp gently to avoid breaking it down. Use extra lemon juice, herbs, or dressing to help prevent the shrimp from drying out.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Can you store cooked shrimp in the fridge unrefrigerated overnight?
No. Leaving cooked shrimp at room temperature for more than 2 hours allows bacteria to multiply quickly. Refrigerate within 1-2 hours.
How long does cooked shrimp last at room temperature?
Only 1-2 hours. Bacteria grows rapidly on shrimp kept at room temperature. Eat or refrigerate cooked shrimp as soon as possible.
Can you eat cooked shrimp that smells a little off?
No, it’s unsafe. Any cooked shrimp giving off ammonia, rotten, or sulfurous odors should be discarded, even if within the fridge shelf life period.
Is it safe to use the same container to store new batch of cooked shrimp?
Yes, but make sure to wash it thoroughly in hot soapy water first. Don’t risk cross-contamination from any residue.
Can you freeze raw shrimp after cooking some of it?
It’s best not to. Freezing uncooked and cooked shrimp together may lead to quality issues. Freeze raw and cooked shrimp portions separately.
How do you know if cooked frozen shrimp has gone bad?
Signs include fungal growth, unusual drying or moisture, and severe breakdown in texture. Discard any bag with a foul odor immediately upon opening.
The Takeaway on Cooked Shrimp Storage
With proper refrigeration and freezing methods, cooked shrimp can be safely enjoyed for up to 3-4 days when fresh, and around 3 months when frozen. Always err on the side of caution and toss out shrimp with any spoilage signs. Following these storage tips can help you reduce waste and enjoy your favorite shrimp recipes on demand!
How to Store Shrimp in the Freezer
Shrimp should be tightly wrapped in heavy-duty aluminum foil, heavy-duty freezer bags, or moisture-proof paper right away and put in the freezer.
Remove as much air out of the bag if storing shrimp this way to avoid freezer burn. Label the bag with the date that you freeze them for handy reference.
How to Store Shrimp in the Fridge
Keep cooked shrimp in the fridge in a container with a lid for no more than two hours after cooking. If shrimp have been exposed to temperatures above 90°F, store them promptly in the fridge within the hour.
Harmful bacteria that can cause illness and food poisoning proliferate at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F. (1)