How many calories are in 11 large shrimp?

December 8, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutritional data, a typical 3.5-ounce serving of cooked shrimp—approximately 11 large pieces—delivers a lean, low-calorie protein punch with under 100 calories. However, the final calorie count for how many calories are in 11 large shrimp depends heavily on the cooking method and any added ingredients.

Quick Summary

A serving of 11 large shrimp offers a low-calorie protein source when prepared simply, such as by boiling or steaming. The calorie total increases significantly with additions like oil, butter, or breading, such as when frying.

Key Points

Low Calorie Base: 11 large shrimp, when simply cooked by boiling or steaming, contain approximately 100 calories.
Frying Adds Substantially: Frying large, breaded shrimp can increase the calorie count for 11 pieces to over 300 calories due to the batter and oil.
Oil Increases Calories: Grilling or sautéing with oil will add calories, with one tablespoon of oil contributing around 120 calories to a dish.
High in Protein: Shrimp are an excellent source of high-quality protein, crucial for muscle and overall health.
Nutrient-Dense: Besides protein, shrimp provide essential nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Cooking Method is Key: For weight management, choose boiling, steaming, or grilling with minimal oil over heavy frying.

Understanding the Baseline: Raw vs. Cooked Calories

When calculating the calories for 11 large shrimp, it is important to first establish the baseline. Raw shrimp contain very few calories and almost no fat. The cooking process itself does not add calories unless other ingredients are introduced. A good estimate for a single large, cooked shrimp is between 9 and 10 calories. Based on this, a serving of 11 large, cooked, and unseasoned shrimp would contain roughly 99 to 110 calories. This makes plain shrimp an excellent choice for a low-calorie, high-protein diet.

The Impact of Cooking Methods on Calorie Count

The way shrimp is cooked is the biggest variable in determining its final calorie count. The methods below illustrate how calories can fluctuate dramatically.

Boiling and Steaming: These are the healthiest methods, as they add no additional calories. You can expect the calorie count to remain very close to the baseline figure, around 100 calories for 11 large shrimp, assuming no butter or rich sauces are added after cooking. Adding flavor through herbs, lemon, and spices is a great calorie-free alternative.
Grilling and Sautéing: When grilling or sautéing, the calorie count depends on the amount of added oil or butter. A tablespoon of a common cooking oil like olive oil contains about 120 calories. If you use just half a tablespoon to cook your 11 shrimp, you would add approximately 60 calories, bringing the total to around 160 to 170 calories. This is still a very reasonable and healthy option.
Frying (Breaded): Frying is where the calorie count skyrockets. Breading and the absorption of cooking oil significantly increase the total calories. While a plain shrimp is low in calories, breaded and fried versions absorb large amounts of fat. One source indicates a single large fried shrimp can range from 25–40 calories, meaning 11 of them could easily exceed 300 calories. Another estimate suggests a single large fried shrimp contains around 33 calories, bringing 11 to approximately 360 calories.

A Calorie Comparison Table


Cooking Method	Estimated Calories (11 Large Shrimp)	Key Additions	Nutritional Notes
Boiled/Steamed	99–110 calories	Water, herbs, spices	Low fat, high protein. Best for weight management.
Grilled	~160–170 calories	Minimal oil or butter	Low fat, but higher than boiled depending on oil usage.
Pan-Sautéed	~160–170 calories	Minimal oil or butter	Similar to grilled, controlled fat content.
Deep-Fried (Breaded)	275–440+ calories	Breading, cooking oil	High fat, high carbohydrate content. Highest calorie option.

Nutritional Benefits of Shrimp

Beyond being a great source of lean protein, shrimp also offer a host of other nutritional benefits. They are rich in important vitamins and minerals that support overall health:

Protein: An 11-shrimp serving provides a significant amount of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Shrimp contains heart-healthy omega-3 fats, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Vitamins and Minerals: They are a good source of selenium, vitamin B12, phosphorus, and choline, which support energy metabolism, immune function, and nerve health.

How to Maximize Flavor While Minimizing Calories

To enjoy the delicious flavor of shrimp without the added calories, consider these preparation techniques:

Cook with a non-stick pan: Using a non-stick pan can help you reduce the amount of oil needed for sautéing.
Use herbs and spices: Fresh garlic, ginger, paprika, and chili flakes can add robust flavor without any calories.
Add citrus: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice after cooking can brighten the flavor and eliminate the need for heavy sauces.
Make a light marinade: Marinate the shrimp in a mixture of lemon juice, herbs, and a small amount of olive oil for flavor that infuses into the shrimp without significant added fat.

Conclusion

The number of calories in 11 large shrimp depends almost entirely on the preparation method. While plain boiled or steamed shrimp is a fantastic, low-calorie protein source with approximately 100 calories, frying them with breading can increase that total by several hundred calories. By being mindful of your cooking techniques, you can easily control the calorie content and enjoy a delicious, nutritious meal. Choose light preparation methods to reap the benefits of this versatile seafood without the added fat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, shrimp are excellent for weight loss, especially when boiled, steamed, or grilled. They are a lean protein source that helps you feel full without consuming a lot of calories.

There are approximately 99 to 110 calories in 11 large boiled shrimp, as boiling adds no significant calories to the shrimp itself.

The calorie count for 11 large fried shrimp can vary widely depending on the breading and oil, but it can range from 275 to over 440 calories.

Yes, grilled shrimp is significantly healthier than fried. Grilling adds minimal calories and fat, whereas frying involves breading and oil that dramatically increase both.

Yes, the size of the shrimp directly affects the calorie count. Large shrimp have more calories than medium or small shrimp, and jumbo shrimp have more still.

Shrimp do contain cholesterol, but dietary cholesterol is no longer considered the primary factor for blood cholesterol levels in most people. Moderation is key, and shrimp can be part of a heart-healthy diet.

To reduce calories, opt for cooking methods like boiling, steaming, or grilling with minimal oil. Use herbs, spices, and citrus for flavor instead of butter or rich sauces.