How Many Calories Do 20 Shrimp Have?

According to nutrition data, a 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of cooked shrimp—approximately 12 medium-sized shrimp—has about 99 calories. This makes the question of how many calories do 20 shrimp have a very important one for those watching their intake, as the final number depends heavily on size and preparation.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for 20 shrimp varies based on their size and preparation method. Boiled or steamed shrimp are a low-calorie protein source, while breading and frying add significant fat and calories.

Key Points

• Size Matters: The calorie count for 20 shrimp varies significantly based on their size, ranging from approximately 100 calories for small to 280 for jumbo.

• Preparation is Key: Cooking methods like boiling or steaming add minimal calories, whereas frying or using heavy sauces can significantly increase the total count.

• Lean Protein Source: Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein food that helps promote satiety, making it an excellent choice for weight management.

• Nutrient-Dense: Beyond calories, shrimp is rich in important nutrients, including selenium, vitamin B12, and phosphorus.

• Healthy Cooking Options: For the healthiest preparation, stick to boiling, steaming, or grilling with minimal oil to keep calories and fat low.

• Avoid Heavy Additives: High-fat sauces, breading, and deep-frying drastically increase the calorie count, undermining the natural low-calorie benefits of shrimp.

Calorie Breakdown for 20 Shrimp by Size

When estimating the calorie content of 20 shrimp, size is the most critical factor. The term "shrimp" can refer to a wide range of crustaceans, from small salad shrimp to jumbo prawns. The standard serving size for nutrition information is often based on weight, with 3 ounces (about 85 grams) being a common reference point. Let's break down the typical calorie count for 20 shrimp across different sizes:

• Small shrimp: At around 5 calories per shrimp, 20 small shrimp would contain approximately 100 calories.
• Medium shrimp: A medium shrimp averages about 7 calories, bringing the total for 20 medium shrimp to roughly 140 calories.
• Large shrimp: With large shrimp containing 9 to 10 calories each, 20 large shrimp would be in the range of 180 to 200 calories.
• Jumbo shrimp: The largest option, jumbo shrimp, can have around 14 calories per piece, making 20 of them total approximately 280 calories.

It's important to remember that these figures are for plain, cooked shrimp without any added fats or sauces. The preparation method can drastically change the final nutritional profile.

The Impact of Cooking Method on Calories

The way shrimp is cooked has a direct and significant effect on its calorie count. A healthy, low-calorie starting point can quickly become a calorie-dense dish with the wrong cooking technique. Here is a breakdown of how different methods influence the caloric content:

• Boiling and Steaming: These methods add no extra fat or calories to the shrimp. A 3-ounce serving of boiled or steamed shrimp is estimated to be 84–90 calories. This is the ideal option for those focusing on weight loss or monitoring fat intake.
• Grilling and Baking: Grilling or baking often involves a light brush of oil or a simple spice rub. This adds a small number of calories, but the meal remains relatively healthy. For example, if you use a tablespoon of olive oil (about 120 calories) for the entire 20-shrimp portion, the overall calorie increase is modest.
• Sautéing: Sautéing requires a bit more oil or butter. If you use 1-2 tablespoons of butter (102 calories per tablespoon) or oil, you could be adding 100 to over 200 calories to the dish. This significantly increases the total calorie count and should be done with moderation.
• Frying (Deep-fried): This is the most calorie-intensive method. Frying involves a breading or batter and substantial oil absorption. A 3-ounce serving of fried shrimp can jump to 200–250 calories, with individual large breaded shrimp landing around 25–40 calories each. This preparation method should be enjoyed sparingly if you are tracking calories.

Comparison Table: Calories in 20 Shrimp by Preparation Method

This table illustrates the calorie variations for 20 medium-sized shrimp based on different cooking methods, offering a clear visual guide for making informed dietary choices.

Cooking Method	Estimated Calories for 20 Medium Shrimp	Key Additives	Calorie Increase vs. Boiled	Notes
Boiled/Steamed	~140 kcal	Water, spices	N/A	Lowest calorie option, pure shrimp.
Grilled/Baked	~170-200 kcal	Light oil, herbs	Small to moderate	Adds minimal fat and calories.
Sautéed	~250-350 kcal	Butter or oil	Moderate	The amount of fat used is key.
Fried	~400-600 kcal+	Breading, oil	Significant	Highest in calories; batter and absorbed oil are the main culprits.

Beyond the Calories: The Nutritional Profile of Shrimp

While focusing on how many calories do 20 shrimp have is important for weight management, it's also worth noting shrimp's other health benefits. Shrimp is a fantastic source of lean protein, which helps with muscle maintenance and satiety. It is also packed with essential nutrients and antioxidants.

Here are some of the nutritional highlights of shrimp:

• High-Quality Protein: Shrimp provides a substantial amount of protein that helps you feel full and satisfied without a high-calorie cost.
• Selenium: This powerful antioxidant is vital for thyroid health and immune function.
• Vitamin B12: Essential for nerve function and energy production.
• Phosphorus: Important for bone health.
• Choline: A nutrient that plays a key role in liver function and brain development.
• Astaxanthin: The antioxidant responsible for shrimp's pink color, which may help combat inflammation.

Conclusion: Making Smart Choices with Shrimp

So, how many calories do 20 shrimp have? The simple answer is: it depends. The specific calorie count is determined by the size of the shrimp and, most importantly, the method of preparation. For the lowest calorie count, opt for 20 medium boiled or steamed shrimp, which will be around 140 calories. To maximize the health benefits and keep calories low, avoid frying and high-fat sauces.

Instead, enjoy grilled or baked shrimp seasoned with herbs, garlic, and citrus. By being mindful of these preparation techniques, you can easily incorporate shrimp into a balanced, healthy diet. Whether you are counting every calorie for weight loss or just aiming for a nutritious meal, shrimp can be an excellent, satisfying protein choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many calories are in a 3-ounce serving of cooked shrimp?

A standard 3-ounce (85-gram) serving of cooked, plain shrimp has approximately 84 to 90 calories, making it a very low-calorie protein option.

What is the calorie difference between boiled and fried shrimp?

Boiled shrimp are very low in calories (around 84-90 kcal per 3 oz), while fried shrimp can be more than double, ranging from 200-250 calories for the same serving size due to the added batter and oil.

Does the size of the shrimp affect its calorie count?

Yes, size is a major factor. A single small shrimp has about 5 calories, a medium one has around 7, and a jumbo one can have up to 14 calories.

Are shrimp a good food for weight loss?

Yes, shrimp are an excellent food for weight loss. They are high in protein and low in calories, which helps promote a feeling of fullness and supports a calorie deficit.

What nutrients are found in shrimp?

Shrimp is a great source of selenium, vitamin B12, phosphorus, choline, and provides the antioxidant astaxanthin.

How can I cook shrimp with the fewest calories?

To cook shrimp with the fewest calories, you should opt for boiling or steaming, as these methods add no extra fat. You can add flavor with herbs, spices, or lemon juice instead of oil.

Is the calorie count different for prawns versus shrimp?

While there are biological differences between shrimp and prawns, their calorie counts per weight are very similar. The main calorie difference will depend more on their size and cooking method than on the specific type.