Shrimp is a versatile protein that can be prepped ahead of time for quick meals throughout the week. However, proper storage is key to ensuring cooked shrimp stays fresh and safe to eat. Here is a guide on how long cooked shrimp lasts in the fridge and freezer for meal prepping.
How Long Does Cooked Shrimp Last in the Fridge?
Cooked shrimp stored properly in the fridge will last 3-4 days. To maximize freshness:
- Peel and devein shrimp before cooking
- Cook shrimp just until opaque and pink
- Chill cooked shrimp within 2 hours
- Store cooked shrimp in airtight container
- Place shrimp on ice or ice packs if storing over 2 days
Signs that cooked shrimp has gone bad include:
- Unpleasant “fishy” odor
- Slimy texture
- Discoloration or graying
When in doubt, remember the old adage “When in doubt, throw it out!”
How to Freeze and Thaw Cooked Shrimp
Freezing cooked shrimp extends the shelf life significantly. Properly frozen shrimp will last 2-3 months in the freezer.
To Freeze:
- Cook shrimp just until opaque
- Chill cooked shrimp completely in fridge
- Portion shrimp in airtight freezer bags or containers
- Remove as much air as possible
- Label with date and contents
- Freeze immediately at 0°F or below
To Thaw and Use:
- Place frozen shrimp in fridge to thaw overnight
- Or place sealed bag under cold running water for quicker thawing
- Use thawed shrimp within 1-2 days
- Do not refreeze thawed shrimp
How Long Does Cooked Shrimp Last in Meal Prep?
When using pre-cooked shrimp for meal prepped foods like salads, bowls or stir fries, follow these guidelines:
| Meal Prep Dish | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp salad | 2 days | Does not freeze well |
| Shrimp bowls/burritos | 3 days | 2-3 months |
| Shrimp fried rice or stir fry | 3-4 days | 2-3 months |
You can extend the fridge life by up to 2 days by keeping meal prep containers on ice or freezer packs. But remember, consume refrigerated meal prep dishes within 4 days for best quality and food safety.
Can You Reheat Previously Cooked Shrimp?
It’s best to avoid reheating cooked shrimp more than once. Reheating introduces more opportunities for bacteria growth. If reheating fully cooked shrimp, follow these tips:
- Only reheat once
- Use freshly thawed or leftover chilled shrimp
- Reheat to 165°F internal temperature
- Reheat just until hot, do not overcook
- Discard any remaining reheated shrimp
How to Tell if Reheated Shrimp is Bad
Signs that reheated shrimp has spoiled include:
- Unusual odors
- Off-color or mushy texture
- Slimy coating on the shrimp
- Discoloration or graying
When reheating previously cooked shrimp, inspect carefully for any signs of spoilage. If in doubt, do not consume reheated shrimp past the recommended fridge storage times.
Key Tips for Storing Cooked Shrimp
To recap, follow these simple guidelines when prepping and storing cooked shrimp:
- Cook just until opaque and pink
- Chill within 2 hours of cooking
- Store in airtight containers
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days
- Freeze for 2-3 months at 0°F
- Thaw in fridge before use
- Avoid reheating more than once
- When in doubt, throw it out!
Conclusion
Cooked shrimp can be safely stored in the refrigerator for meal prepping for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze cooked shrimp for 2-3 months. Take care to thaw, prep and consume reheated shrimp within the recommended timeframe. With proper handling and storage, pre-cooked shrimp can be enjoyed in a variety of meal prep recipes for quick protein-packed meals all week.