How many calories are in 9 shrimps?

December 14, 2025 •

4 min read

A single medium cooked shrimp contains only about 7 calories, but that number can vary widely based on preparation and size. For nine shrimps, the total can range from a lean, low-calorie protein source to a higher-calorie meal with added fats and carbs.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for 9 shrimps varies significantly by size and cooking method, ranging from approximately 45 for raw large shrimp to over 360 for a breaded and fried serving.

Key Points

Calories Vary by Prep: The cooking method dramatically changes the calorie count for 9 shrimps; plain cooked is low-calorie, while fried is high-calorie.
Size Matters: The size of the shrimp is a key factor, with medium shrimp being roughly 7 calories each, while jumbo can be double that amount.
Low-Calorie Protein: When prepared simply (boiled, steamed, or grilled), 9 shrimps serve as a lean, low-calorie source of high-quality protein.
Avoid Breading and Frying: Breading and deep-frying add significant amounts of fat and carbohydrates, drastically increasing the total calorie count of the meal.
Nutrient-Rich: Shrimp is packed with beneficial micronutrients like selenium and vitamin B12, supporting various bodily functions.
Check for Added Ingredients: Be aware of added oils, butters, and high-fat sauces, which can quickly turn a healthy dish into a high-calorie one.

Calorie Breakdown by Preparation Method

Determining the precise calorie count for nine shrimps isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. The final number is heavily influenced by the shrimp's size and, more importantly, the cooking method and ingredients used. Below is a detailed look at how different preparations affect the calorie count for a typical serving of nine shrimps.

Plain Cooked Shrimp (Boiled or Steamed)

When prepared simply without added oils or batter, shrimp is a lean source of protein and very low in calories. A serving of 9 medium-sized, cooked shrimp, which is approximately 3 ounces, contains about 101 calories. This represents one of the healthiest and most calorie-conscious ways to consume shrimp. The majority of these calories come from protein, with minimal fat and carbohydrates present. Healthy seasonings, such as lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, can be added to enhance flavor without significantly increasing the calorie count.

Fried or Breaded Shrimp

Frying and breading are preparation methods that add a substantial number of calories, fat, and carbohydrates to shrimp. A typical serving of nine breaded and fried shrimp contains approximately 360 calories, according to some nutrition data. The increase is due to the oil absorbed during frying and the carbohydrates in the breading or batter. This is a crucial distinction for anyone tracking their calorie intake.

Raw Shrimp

For those interested in the base nutritional value, the calories in raw shrimp are considerably lower. For instance, nine large raw shrimps contain just 45 calories, based on nutritional data for uncooked crustaceans. It is important to note that raw shrimp is rarely consumed directly and is cooked before consumption, which is where the calorie count is adjusted based on the preparation method.

Factors Influencing the Calorie Count

Beyond the cooking style, several factors contribute to the final calorie count of your shrimp dish. Understanding these can help you make more informed decisions about your meal.

Size of the Shrimp: Shrimp are sized according to how many are in a pound. This means a "large" shrimp is not the same as a "jumbo" or "medium" shrimp. A single medium shrimp averages about 7 calories, while a jumbo shrimp can be closer to 14 calories each. This size variation alone can significantly impact the total calorie count for a serving of nine.

Added Ingredients: The oils, butters, and sauces used in cooking are often the primary source of extra calories. Cooking with a quick brush of olive oil or a spray is far different from sautéing in several tablespoons of butter or drenching in a creamy, high-fat sauce.

Breading and Coating: Any flour, batter, or breading used to coat the shrimp adds a significant amount of carbohydrates and can lead to a much higher calorie total, especially when fried.

Nutritional Profile of Shrimp

Aside from being a low-calorie protein source when cooked simply, shrimp offers several other nutritional benefits.

High-Quality Protein: Shrimp provides a complete protein, supplying all the amino acids the human body cannot produce on its own.
Micronutrients: It is a source of important nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, phosphorus, and choline, which support thyroid health, brain function, and overall wellness.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Shrimp contains polyunsaturated fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties.
Low in Fat: Without added oils, shrimp is very low in total fat and saturated fat.

Comparison Table: 9 Shrimps Calorie Chart


Preparation Method	Approx. Calories (9 Shrimps)	Approx. Fat (g)	Approx. Carbs (g)
Plain Cooked (Medium)	~63-101	<2	<2
Raw (Large)	45	1	1
Fried and Breaded (Medium)	360	22	33

Note: Values are approximate and can differ based on exact size and ingredients.

Healthy Ways to Enjoy Shrimp

To keep your shrimp meal healthy and low-calorie, consider these cooking methods and serving suggestions:

Grilling: Cook shrimp on skewers with a light brush of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon for a smoky flavor without excess fat.
Steaming: Similar to boiling, steaming preserves the shrimp's natural flavor and keeps calories to a minimum.
Baking: Bake shrimp in the oven with a sprinkle of seasoning for a simple and healthy preparation.
In Salads: Add chilled, cooked shrimp to salads to boost protein and flavor.
Light Stir-Fries: Quickly stir-fry shrimp with plenty of vegetables and a low-sodium sauce.

Conclusion

The number of calories in 9 shrimps is not a fixed value but rather depends on both the size of the shrimp and the method of preparation. For the lowest calorie count, opt for medium-sized shrimp that are boiled, steamed, or grilled with minimal oil, which will likely result in a calorie intake of under 100. However, if those same nine shrimps are breaded and deep-fried, the calorie count can skyrocket to over 350. By being mindful of how you prepare your shrimp, you can easily control its nutritional impact while still enjoying this versatile and protein-rich seafood. For more nutritional information on a wide range of foods, you can explore resources from the USDA.

Frequently Asked Questions

A 3-ounce serving, which is roughly 8 to 9 medium cooked shrimp, contains about 101 calories. Based on an average of 7 calories per medium shrimp, a serving of nine would be around 63 calories.

Nine fried and breaded shrimps have a significantly higher calorie count, estimated at around 360 calories, due to the absorbed oil and breading.

Yes, nine shrimps can be part of a healthy meal, especially when they are boiled, steamed, or grilled with minimal added fats. They provide a high-quality, low-calorie source of protein.

The cooking method is the biggest factor affecting shrimp calories. Methods like boiling and steaming keep calories low, while frying and adding rich sauces or butter increase them significantly.

Raw shrimp has a slightly lower calorie count per gram than cooked shrimp, but the difference is minimal in a small serving. Nine large raw shrimp have 45 calories, which is close to the 63-101 range for cooked medium shrimp.

Shrimp is an excellent source of protein and contains various nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, phosphorus, choline, and omega-3 fatty acids.

To reduce calories, choose healthier cooking methods like boiling, steaming, or grilling instead of frying. Use minimal amounts of oil and opt for low-calorie seasonings like lemon, garlic, and spices.