How much protein is in Outback Steakhouse coconut shrimp?

January 12, 2026 •

3 min read

According to the official Outback Steakhouse nutrition data compiled by Nutritionix, a regular order of 6 Gold Coast Coconut Shrimp contains 19 grams of protein. This is an important consideration for diners tracking their macronutrient intake, highlighting that while shrimp is a good source of protein, the total nutritional profile of this appetizer is heavily influenced by its preparation.

Quick Summary

The protein content of Outback Steakhouse's coconut shrimp varies by serving size, with a standard appetizer providing a moderate amount of protein alongside high calorie, fat, and carbohydrate counts. The preparation method significantly impacts its overall nutritional value.

Key Points

Variable Protein Content: The protein in Outback's coconut shrimp depends on the serving size, with the larger 8-piece appetizer offering more protein than the smaller 6-piece version or the add-on.
Moderate Protein per Serving: A standard 6-piece appetizer contains 19 grams of protein, a moderate amount for an appetizer but notably lower compared to some main courses.
High-Fat Preparation: The deep-fried and battered preparation adds significant fat and calories, making the dish less protein-dense than it appears based on shrimp alone.
High Total Calories: The calorie count is substantial, especially for the larger servings, which means it should be consumed in moderation or balanced with other lighter menu items.
Dipping Sauce Adds Sugar: The Creole marmalade dipping sauce contributes additional sugar and calories, further impacting the nutritional profile.
Healthier Alternatives Exist: For a more protein-focused and lighter choice, Outback's menu includes grilled seafood options with a better protein-to-calorie ratio.
Mindful Consumption is Key: Enjoying the dish as an occasional treat and being aware of its full nutritional breakdown is the best approach for health-conscious diners.

Understanding the Protein in Outback Steakhouse Coconut Shrimp

For many patrons, the Outback Steakhouse coconut shrimp is a delicious and appealing appetizer. However, for those conscious of their dietary intake, understanding its nutritional components is key. The protein content, while present, is overshadowed by the high fat and calorie density of this popular dish.

Nutritional Breakdown by Serving Size

Outback Steakhouse offers different portion sizes for its coconut shrimp, and each has a distinct nutritional profile. The protein count is not static across all orders. Here is a breakdown based on recently updated nutritional data:

Add-On Serving: An add-on portion of Gold Coast Coconut Shrimp provides approximately 12 grams of protein. This smaller portion is intended to complement an entree rather than serve as a standalone dish.
6-Piece Appetizer: A standard 6-piece order of Gold Coast Coconut Shrimp contains 19 grams of protein. This is a moderate amount, but it comes with a much higher calorie and fat load.
8-Piece Appetizer: The larger 8-piece order escalates the protein count to 26 grams. This serving provides a more substantial protein portion, but also significantly more calories and fat.

The Impact of Preparation on Macronutrients

While shrimp is naturally high in lean protein, the cooking method for coconut shrimp dramatically alters its nutritional value. The process involves battering and deep-frying, which adds substantial fat, carbohydrates, and calories.

Components affecting nutritional value:

Battering: The coating used for the shrimp, a mix of batter and coconut flakes, is high in carbohydrates and can absorb a considerable amount of frying oil.
Frying: Deep-frying in oil adds a large number of calories and a significant amount of fat, particularly saturated fat, which affects the overall health profile of the dish.
Dipping Sauce: The Creole marmalade served with the shrimp contains a high amount of sugar, further increasing the overall carbohydrate and calorie count.

How Coconut Shrimp Compares to Other Menu Items

To put the coconut shrimp's nutritional profile into perspective, it's helpful to compare it with other appetizer options at Outback. This can help diners make a more balanced choice, especially when prioritizing protein content over calorie density.


Item	Serving Size	Calories	Protein (g)	Total Fat (g)	Total Carbs (g)
Gold Coast Coconut Shrimp	6-Piece Appetizer	680	19	50	38
Gold Coast Coconut Shrimp	8-Piece Appetizer	730	26	49	44
Steakhouse Mac & Cheese Bites	Per order	660	27	37	54
Seared Peppered Ahi	Per order	440	29	14	46
Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie	Add-on serving	370	Not specified	Not specified	Not specified

As the table shows, options like the Seared Peppered Ahi offer a much higher protein-to-calorie ratio, making it a more protein-efficient choice. The grilled shrimp is also a more favorable option when trying to control fat and calorie intake.

Making Healthier Choices

For those who love the taste but want to mitigate the unhealthier aspects, here are a few tips:

Control your dipping: The Creole marmalade adds significant sugar. Use it sparingly or ask for a side of salsa or fresh lemon for a lighter flavor kick.
Share the appetizer: Splitting the coconut shrimp with others can help reduce the portion size and calorie intake per person.
Combine with a lighter entree: If you indulge in the appetizer, pair it with a very light main course, such as a salad with a light dressing or grilled chicken, to balance your meal.
Consider grilled options: Outback offers several grilled seafood options, such as grilled shrimp, that provide the benefit of lean protein without the added fat from frying.

Conclusion

While Outback Steakhouse coconut shrimp does offer a moderate amount of protein, it's essential to recognize that it is not a protein-first dish. The preparation method results in a high-fat and high-calorie appetizer. Diners who are prioritizing a low-calorie or low-fat meal should be aware of these nutritional facts. By choosing a smaller portion, using less of the dipping sauce, or opting for a healthier menu item, it's possible to enjoy a meal at Outback while staying mindful of your dietary goals.

For more in-depth nutritional information, you can explore Outback Steakhouse's official nutrition data online.

Frequently Asked Questions

A 6-piece Gold Coast Coconut Shrimp appetizer from Outback Steakhouse contains approximately 680 calories.

The total fat in a regular 6-piece appetizer is 50 grams, while an 8-piece portion contains 49 grams.

While the shrimp itself is a lean protein source, the preparation method of deep-frying and battering adds significant fat and calories, making it a high-calorie rather than a lean protein option.

Yes, the accompanying Creole marmalade dipping sauce adds extra sugar and carbohydrates, increasing the total calorie count of the dish.

The add-on serving is a smaller portion, containing about 12 grams of protein and fewer calories and fat than the full appetizer.

For a lighter, more protein-forward choice, the Grilled Shrimp on the Barbie is a significantly healthier alternative, as it is not fried.

While it's unlikely the kitchen will alter the standard recipe, you can request lighter sauce or simply opt for a grilled alternative to reduce the calorie impact of your meal.