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 delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in many recipes from appetizers to main courses. However, like any perishable food, cooked shrimp has a relatively short shelf life in the fridge. So how long exactly is cooked shrimp safe to eat when refrigerated?
In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about shrimp fridge life, including how many days cooked shrimp lasts, how to tell if it’s gone bad, proper storage methods to maximize freshness, safe reheating tips, and common questions answered.
Whether you’re meal prepping or have leftovers from a seafood dinner, this guide will ensure you keep cooked shrimp safe, delicious, and ready to enjoy when shrimp cravings strike!
How Long Does Cooked Shrimp Last in the Fridge?
Cooked shrimp that has been continuously refrigerated will keep for 3 to 4 days after cooking Peeled, cooked shrimp will be good for 2 to 3 days
These timeframes refer to shrimp stored properly at a temperature of 40°F or below, which is the temperature of a properly working fridge
Make sure not to exceed these fridge life guidelines for cooked shrimp. Discard any leftover shrimp after 4 days – do not risk eating spoiled shrimp.
How to Tell If Cooked Shrimp Has Gone Bad
It’s important to know the signs of spoiled shrimp to determine if yours is still OK to eat or ready to be tossed. Here’s what to look for:
- Slimy texture or mushy feel
- Unpleasant sour, ammonia-like smell
- Discoloration, such as dull hue or unnatural white, blue, or black tones
- Mold growth
If your cooked shrimp exhibits any of these qualities, it has gone bad and should be discarded. Always rely on your senses – if it smells or looks off, do not eat it.
Proper Storage for Maximum Freshness
Storing cooked shrimp properly is key to optimizing its refrigerator shelf life. Follow these storage guidelines:
- Refrigerate cooked shrimp within 2 hours of cooking. Never leave it out at room temperature.
- Place shrimp in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Store shrimp in the coldest part of the fridge, such as the bottom shelf.
- Do not overcrowd shrimp in storage containers.
- Consume within 4 days and discard any leftovers after that.
Proper refrigeration at 40°F or below will slow bacteria growth and keep cooked shrimp as fresh as possible.
Safe Reheating Tips
When ready to enjoy leftover cooked shrimp, use these safe reheating methods:
- On the stovetop over medium-low heat with a little butter or oil
- In the microwave at 50% power in 30 second intervals
- Added at the very end to hot soups, sautés, or pasta dishes
Avoid reheating cooked shrimp more than once. Reheat only the amount needed and discard any remaining reheated shrimp.
Do not re-freeze previously frozen shrimp after cooking or thawing. Cooked shrimp is best kept refrigerated.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about cooked shrimp fridge life answered:
How long does thawed, cooked shrimp last in the fridge?
Previously frozen, thawed cooked shrimp will keep for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Discard any remaining shrimp after 4 days.
Can you freeze cooked shrimp?
It’s best not to freeze cooked shrimp. Freeze raw shrimp instead for best quality.
Does cooking shrimp extend fridge life?
Yes, cooked shrimp lasts a bit longer than raw shrimp in the fridge. Raw shrimp is only good for 1 to 2 days.
How long is simmered shrimp good for?
Shrimp simmered in soups, stews, etc. has the same 3 to 4 day fridge life. Discard leftovers after 4 days.
Is expired cooked shrimp safe to eat?
No, cooked shrimp that has surpassed its fridge life of 4 days should not be eaten, even if frozen or reheated. Play it safe and throw old shrimp away.
Can you get sick from bad shrimp?
Yes, spoiled cooked shrimp can potentially cause food poisoning or digestive issues if eaten. When in doubt, throw it out.
The Takeaway
Now you know exactly how long cooked shrimp stays fresh in the refrigerator – no more than 3 to 4 days. Be diligent about proper storage, check for signs of spoilage, and enjoy your leftovers within that timeframe.
Knowing the fridge life can prevent health issues from eating spoiled shrimp. So check your containers for any cooked shrimp lingering past its prime and say goodbye after day 4.
Follow these shrimp storage guidelines and reheating tips for delicious, safe meals. Then you can confidently cook up a batch of shrimp and relish leftovers worry-free.
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 Long Does Cooked Shrimp Stay Fresh in the Fridge
Cooked shrimp lasts 3-4 days in the fridge. Put cooked shrimp right away in a container that won’t let air in so you can have them on hand for a quick weeknight dinner.
If you only have 30 minutes to cook a tasty, low-calorie dinner, this Pancit Canton with Shrimp and Vegetables recipe is just what you need! Just toss the shrimp with the vegetables, and if you want to save even more time, use frozen vegetables!
