The short answer
Yes. Rebuilt or re-downloaded automatically when needed.
What is it?
Precompiled shaders Steam keeps per game so graphics load faster and stutter less. It is stored in ~/Library/Application Support/Steam/steamapps/shadercache and grows with the number of games you play.
What happens if you delete it?
Rebuilt as you play. The first sessions after clearing may load more slowly or stutter briefly while shaders compile again.
How to remove it properly
Quit Steam, then move ~/Library/Application Support/Steam/steamapps/shadercache to the Trash in Finder (Go › Go to Folder…).
Quit the app that uses it, then move it to the Trash. Empty the Trash when you’re sure.
How MoreRoom helps
MoreRoom recognises this item, shows its real size and when it was last used, and labels it “Safe to remove”. In the free version you can move it to the Trash in one click, with Undo; Pro collects every safe item at once.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to delete the Steam shader cache on Mac?
Yes. Rebuilt or re-downloaded automatically when needed. Rebuilt as you play. The first sessions after clearing may load more slowly or stutter briefly while shaders compile again.
Will Steam shader cache come back after I delete it?
Yes. Rebuilt as you play. The first sessions after clearing may load more slowly or stutter briefly while shaders compile again.
How do I remove Steam shader cache properly?
Quit Steam, then move ~/Library/Application Support/Steam/steamapps/shadercache to the Trash in Finder (Go › Go to Folder…).