Is Shrimp Keto-Friendly?

Low-calorie seafood like shrimp is a favorite for health-conscious eaters. But is shrimp keto diet approved? I'm sharing all you need to know about this yummy crustacean, with macronutrients, health benefits, and low-carb recipes.

Keto dieters know – "health food" doesn't always equal keto food.

No matter how seemingly healthy a food may be, its macronutrients may not work for a keto diet. We see this often with high-carb fruits and vegetables; just two bananas could kick you out of ketosis!

But what about fan-favorite seafood? Is shrimp a keto food?

Often loved for its low-calorie count, significant protein content, and meal versatility, shrimp can definitely be part of a healthy diet. To see if it can fit into a keto diet, however, we'll need to take a closer look.

In this post, I'm investigating this tasty shellfish to determine whether or not you can eat it on a ketogenic diet. I've also included yummy low-carb recipes and shrimp nutrition facts for you to explore.

Note: To find more keto-approved foods, check out my keto food list. It's perfect for anyone starting the keto diet.

Is shrimp keto diet approved?

Seafood fans can rest easy – shrimp is most definitely keto-approved.

This low-calorie food contains nearly no carbohydrates, with just 0.2g net carbs per 100g serving. In other words, you can eat shrimp freely on a keto diet.

That being said, you should note that shrimp is high in cholesterol. Those watching their cholesterol levels should eat shrimp in moderation!

Try adding yummy shrimp-based recipes to your weekly meal plan like sheet pan shrimp fajitas, chicken and shrimp stir fry, or coconut shrimp.

Shrimp nutrition facts

Shrimp is great for a keto diet because of its macronutrients. Nutrition information for 100g of cooked shrimp includes:

• Total carbs – 0.2g
• Net carbs – 0.2g
• Fat – 0.3g
• Protein – 24g
• Fiber – 0g

There are also several health benefits to including shrimp in your diet! Reported health advantages of eating shrimp include:

• Nutrient-rich in iodine, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids
• Good source of protein
• May strengthen brain health
• May reduce the risk of heart disease

Keto shrimp recipes

Ready to give shrimp a try in your weekly meal rotation? Try any of these delicious shrimp keto meals. Each one is easy to make, nutritious to eat, and low in carbohydrates.

1. Crock-pot shrimp scampi

If you're looking for a super easy "dump and go" meal, you need to try my slow cooker shrimp scampi! Simply "dump" your ingredients into a crock pot, set your timer, and leave it to cook.

This recipe calls for simple, whole ingredients like raw shrimp, chicken broth, and white cooking wine.

Tip – This is a great way to use any frozen shrimp you have on hand!

2. Grilled shrimp kabobs

My shrimp kabob recipe is made with fresh additions like lemon juice and olive oil that really let the ingredients shine.

This keto shrimp recipe combines juicy shrimp with low-carb vegetables for an amazing summertime meal.

3. Keto bang bang shrimp

This keto-friendly bang bang shrimp recipe is a Bonefish Grill copycat that is even tastier than the original!

And homemade low carb bang bang sauce takes this crispy fried shrimp to new levels.

Tip – Add parmesan cheese to your pork rinds for more flavor and fat content.

4. Keto gumbo with shrimp and sausage

My shrimp and sausage gumbo is incredibly hearty, with cajun-flavored broth, andouille sausage, and okra.

There's nothing more comforting than a big bowl of this spicy gumbo!

6. Shrimp spaghetti squash alfredo with broccoli

Love pasta but don't love the excess carbohydrates? Try my recipe for shrimp spaghetti squash alfredo!

This low-carb meal contains very little prep work and is super creamy and satisfying to eat.

Decadent additions like parmesan cheese, butter, and cream cheese give this recipe great fat content and tons of flavor.

7. Keto shrimp boil

This keto shrimp boil is hearty and delicious, made with low-carb veggies like cauliflower, yellow squash, and onion.

Serve it with a thick piece of buttered keto bread; this combo will make your belly happy!

8. Blackened shrimp

My blackened shrimp recipe is super versatile. Add it to cauliflower rice, lettuce wraps, or keto taco shells for a quick and delicious meal.

Cajun shrimp is made so flavorful with spices, oil, and cayenne pepper; they will make any meal taste gourmet!

FAQs

Here are some questions people often ask about eating shrimp on a ketogenic diet. If you don't see your question in this list, please leave it in the comments.

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Now that we've answered "is shrimp keto?", check out these other seafood-focused, low-carb meal ideas:

• Keto Baked Fish Florentine is made with mild cod filets, creamy spinach sauce, and pork rind breadcrumbs for a tasty one-pan meal.
• Prawn Curry with Coconut Milk brings the heat with red chili peppers and a variety of curry spices.
• Easy Keto Crab Cakes are moist on the inside and crunchy on the outside. Enjoy them with your favorite low-carb dipping sauce!
• Keto Baked Cod has zero net carbs and is full of omega-3 fatty acids for a simple and healthy meal option.
• Creamy White Clam Sauce is the perfect topping for low-carb zucchini pasta. You'll love this rich sauce, made with heavy cream, white wine, and garlic.

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