Crispy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Garlic Shrimp Bites

These low carb air fryer brussels sprouts with garlicky shrimp bites deliver big flavor and a craveable crunch while staying friendly to blood sugar. Each serving lands under 10 grams net carbs, and the combination of fiber-rich sprouts, lean shrimp, and heart-healthy olive oil makes this side dish as smart as it is satisfying. For steady energy, this recipe leans on nonstarchy vegetables and protein to slow digestion and blunt glucose spikes. Brussels sprouts contribute fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, while shrimp adds virtually zero carbs and high-quality protein. Because everything cooks fast at a controlled air fryer temperature keto cooks love, you avoid the heavy breading and sugary glazes that can derail carb counts. Want more ocean-friendly ideas? See all [seafood dishes](/recipes/category/seafood). Parmesan brings savory depth with minimal carbs, and a splash of lemon brightens the whole pan. The technique here roasts the sprouts first for maximum caramelization, then adds the shrimp so it reaches the USDA-safe 145 degrees Fahrenheit without overcooking. If you are new to countertop fryers, our [beginner's air fryer guide](/blog/beginners-air-fryer-guide) walks through timing, spacing, and airflow so you get consistent results. Pro tips: pat the sprouts very dry, preheat thoroughly, and avoid crowding for a crisp exterior without breading. A light mist from a [quality olive oil sprayer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) coats evenly without excess oil. Use a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) as your trusted meat thermometer for low carb air fryer meals to confirm shrimp hits 145 degrees Fahrenheit. For tidy melting and extra crisp cheese edges, slide everything into a small baking pan for low carb air fryer meals that fits your basket. If you are upgrading gear, browse helpful keto air fryer accessories along with a dependable [air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon). Serve alongside grilled steak, rotisserie chicken, or pair it with our creamy, crunchy [keto coleslaw](/recipes/keto-coleslaw). Leftovers keep 3 days in the fridge; reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 4 minutes to revive crispness. For weekly planning, batch-trim sprouts and portion shrimp ahead of time, then follow our practical tips in the [keto meal prep tips](/blog/keto-meal-prep-guide). FAQ: - Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cheese in this recipe? Yes. Use nutritional yeast plus finely crushed pork rinds for a cheesy, salty crunch with virtually zero carbs. - Can I reheat this in the microwave or does it need the air fryer? The microwave works for 45 to 60 seconds, but the air fryer keeps it crispy. Reheat at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 4 minutes. - How do I get a crispy exterior without using breading? Dry the sprouts well, preheat fully, do not overcrowd, and finish with Parmesan or pork rinds. These steps create crunch without flour.

Prep: 10 min. Cook: 16 min. Servings: 4.

Ingredients

• Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved: 1 pound (454 g)
• Raw medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, chopped into 1/2 inch pieces: 8 ounces (226 g)
• Extra-virgin olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Grated Parmesan cheese: 1 ounce (about 1/4 cup)
• Fresh garlic, minced: 2 cloves
• Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon
• Fresh lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
• Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
• Kosher salt: 3/4 teaspoon
• Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon, optional
• Fresh parsley, chopped: 2 tablespoons, for garnish
• Optional dairy-free crunch: 2 tablespoons finely crushed pork rinds in place of Parmesan

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes. Line the basket with a perforated liner if using.
2. Pat the Brussels sprouts very dry. In a bowl, toss sprouts with 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper.
3. Arrange sprouts cut side down in a single layer. Air fry for 8 minutes, shake or flip, then cook 5 to 7 minutes more until edges are deeply browned and crisp-tender.
4. While sprouts cook, toss chopped shrimp with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, lemon zest, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Add shrimp over the sprouts, spacing pieces so air circulates. Air fry 3 to 4 minutes until shrimp are opaque and reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Verify with a digital meat thermometer for accuracy.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan over the hot mixture and air fry 1 minute to melt. For neater edges, transfer to a small baking pan that fits your air fryer before adding the cheese, then return for 1 to 2 minutes.
7. Finish with lemon juice and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer