How many calories do buttered shrimp have?

December 14, 2025 •

4 min read

A 3-ounce serving of plain cooked shrimp provides a lean 84 calories, with virtually no fat. However, the calorie count rises significantly when prepared with butter and other ingredients. This article breaks down exactly how many calories do buttered shrimp have and how to make a healthier version.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for buttered shrimp varies widely based on the amount of butter and other additions. A standard serving can range from approximately 160 to over 270 calories, with butter being the primary caloric contributor. Ingredients like garlic, oil, and seasonings also impact the final nutritional information.

Key Points

Variable Calorie Count: The number of calories in buttered shrimp can vary widely, from around 160 to over 270 calories per serving, depending on the amount of butter and other added fats.
Butter is the Main Source: Plain shrimp is naturally low in calories (around 84 per 3 oz), so the butter and cooking oil are the primary sources of added calories and fat.
Healthier Cooking Alternatives: To reduce calories, use less butter and supplement with lower-calorie flavorings like lemon juice, fresh garlic, and herbs.
Recipe Customization is Key: Controlling the ingredients, especially the type and quantity of fat and any additions like cream or cheese, is crucial for managing the dish's nutritional impact.
Rich in Protein: Despite the added calories from butter, shrimp remains an excellent source of lean protein, which helps promote satiety and muscle health.
Beware of Sodium: Many recipes can be high in sodium. Using low-sodium ingredients and minimizing added salt is important for health.

Calorie Breakdown of Buttered Shrimp

To understand the total caloric value of buttered shrimp, it's essential to break down the main components: the shrimp itself and the butter. A 3-ounce (85-gram) serving of plain, cooked shrimp is very low in calories, with only around 84. The bulk of the additional calories comes directly from the butter and any oil used in the cooking process.

For example, one tablespoon of butter contains approximately 102 calories and 11.5 grams of fat. A typical garlic butter sauce can use several tablespoons of butter or a mix of butter and oil, significantly increasing the total calories per serving. Recipes often vary greatly, which is why the calorie count can range so widely.

How Recipe Variations Affect Calorie Count

The final calorie count of your buttered shrimp dish is heavily dependent on the recipe and portion size. A simple garlic butter shrimp recipe might have a lower calorie count than a dish with added cream, cheese, or served over rice or pasta. The key is understanding how each ingredient contributes to the final nutritional profile.

Type of fat: While butter is traditional, some recipes also use olive oil. One tablespoon of olive oil contains about 120 calories, slightly more than butter, but olive oil consists of healthier monounsaturated fats. Using less fat overall is the most effective way to reduce calories.
Added ingredients: The addition of garlic, lemon juice, and herbs adds flavor without significantly impacting the calorie count. However, other additions like cream or parmesan cheese in a dish like scampi can increase calories substantially.
Portion size: A small, 3-ounce serving of shrimp with a minimal amount of butter will have far fewer calories than a larger, 6-ounce portion doused in a rich sauce.

Comparison Table: Caloric Differences in Shrimp Preparations


Preparation Method	Key Ingredients	Approximate Calories (3 oz serving)	Notes
Buttered Shrimp (Basic)	Shrimp, butter, garlic	160–200 kcal	Varies based on butter quantity.
Garlic Butter Shrimp	Shrimp, garlic, butter, oil	220–270 kcal	Calorie count often higher due to additional oil.
Shrimp Scampi	Shrimp, butter, olive oil, wine, garlic	~239 kcal	Can vary with pasta addition.
Boiled/Steamed Shrimp	Shrimp only	85–90 kcal	Lowest calorie option, very lean.
Fried Shrimp	Shrimp, batter, cooking oil	200–250 kcal	Breaded and deep-fried, much higher fat.

Tips for Making a Healthier Buttered Shrimp

If you want to enjoy the flavor of buttered shrimp without a high calorie count, several modifications can help. These substitutions and preparation techniques allow you to create a satisfying and healthy meal.

Reduce the butter: Use a smaller amount of butter and supplement the sauce with a low-sodium broth or a splash of white wine. The flavor will be rich without the added fat and calories.
Add lemon juice: Lemon juice and zest add a bright, tangy flavor that enhances the dish without adding significant calories. It can also help cut the richness of the butter, allowing you to use less.
Incorporate vegetables: Sautéing vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or asparagus with the shrimp can increase the dish's nutritional value and fiber content. This adds bulk and nutrients without packing on extra calories.
Use healthy oils sparingly: When a recipe calls for oil and butter, consider using only a small amount of heart-healthy olive oil. You can still get a silky texture without the saturated fat from excessive butter.
Use herbs generously: Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives are calorie-free and add a fresh, vibrant flavor. They make the dish more appealing and flavorful without extra fat.

Nutritional Considerations Beyond Calories

While calories are a key factor for those monitoring their weight, the overall nutritional profile of buttered shrimp is also important. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein and contains valuable vitamins and minerals. The addition of butter and salt can increase the total fat and sodium, which should be monitored for those with specific health concerns.

High in protein: Shrimp provides a significant amount of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues. Protein also promotes satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer.
Rich in vitamins and minerals: Shrimp is a good source of vitamins like B12 and minerals such as phosphorus, choline, and selenium.
High sodium content: Many recipes and restaurant versions of buttered shrimp can be high in sodium, which is a concern for those with high blood pressure. Using low-sodium broth and controlling the amount of added salt can help manage this.

A Simple Low-Calorie Recipe Idea

For a quick and healthy meal, you can make a lemon-garlic shrimp dish with minimal butter. Sauté minced garlic in a half-tablespoon of butter and a splash of olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque. Finish with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. This method delivers all the flavor with a fraction of the calories.

Conclusion

The question of how many calories do buttered shrimp have has a complex answer, ranging significantly based on the preparation method and ingredients. While a basic buttered shrimp dish is moderately caloric, a rich, restaurant-style version can have a much higher count. By being mindful of ingredient proportions and adopting healthier cooking techniques, it is possible to enjoy the delicious flavor of buttered shrimp while keeping calorie intake in check. Simple substitutions like reducing butter and adding lemon juice can make a big difference, allowing you to savor this versatile and protein-rich seafood without compromising your health goals.

For a more in-depth look at shrimp nutrition, consult resources like Verywell Fit's Shrimp Nutrition Facts, which details the health benefits of this lean seafood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Buttered shrimp can be a healthy meal when prepared with moderation. Plain shrimp is very nutritious, but the addition of large amounts of butter increases fat and calories. A healthier version can be made by using less butter and more herbs and lemon juice.

To lower the calories, use a smaller amount of butter, or substitute some of the butter with olive oil, which is rich in heart-healthy fats. Adding fresh lemon juice and herbs like parsley or cilantro can also enhance flavor without adding calories.

Yes, a properly made buttered shrimp recipe is keto-friendly. Shrimp is naturally very low in carbs, and the fats from butter and oil align with the keto diet's high-fat, low-carb requirements.

Garlic adds negligible calories to buttered shrimp. It's primarily used for flavor and aroma, making it a great, low-calorie way to enhance the dish.

Fried shrimp typically has more calories than basic buttered shrimp because of the added batter and deep-frying in oil. A 3-ounce serving of fried shrimp can range from 200 to 250 calories, while buttered shrimp is often less, depending on the butter used.

Yes, the size of the shrimp affects the calorie count per individual piece, but the nutritional information is most accurately measured per serving size (e.g., 3 ounces or 100 grams). Larger jumbo shrimp will have more calories per piece than smaller ones.

While you can use margarine, it often contains less saturated fat than butter. However, margarine also contains processed oils and often trans fats, which are less healthy. A better low-calorie option is to use a smaller amount of real butter or olive oil.