Crispy Pork Belly Brussels Sprouts in the Air Fryer

This air fryer side is simple, savory, and truly diabetic-friendly. Golden pork belly crisps up into flavorful bits that coat tender, charred Brussels sprouts, giving you a satisfying, air fryer quick weeknight low carb dish with big texture and minimal prep. Each serving delivers about 5 grams net carbs, which simplifies fit into a blood sugar conscious meal plan without sacrificing flavor or crunch. Why it works for glucose control: portioned pork belly provides satiating fat, while Brussels sprouts contribute fiber and micronutrients that support steadier blood sugar. The balance of fat, fiber, and modest protein helps tame post-meal spikes. Net carbs are capped at 5 grams per serving, with no added sugars. If you want a protein-rich main to pair with this side, browse more [chicken recipes](/recipes/category/poultry) to round out your plate. Using a keto air fryer grill pan gives you beautiful sear lines and efficient fat rendering, much like making keto air fryer bacon. A smooth grill plate for zero carb air fryer meals or an air fryer grill pan for zero carb cooking both allow airflow that crisps without excessive oil. The result is restaurant-quality char and concentrated flavor, ideal for low-glycemic eating. For best results, preheat thoroughly and spread ingredients in a single layer. Cook pork belly until the largest piece reaches at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit, verified with a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon). If you cook pork belly as a slab instead of cubes, let it rest 3 minutes before slicing, per USDA guidance. A light mist from a [quality olive oil sprayer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) helps the sprouts blister without excess calories, and a reliable [air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) with a grill plate keeps everything crisp and even. Serve alongside grilled poultry, steak, or fish. It also pairs perfectly with our crunchy, tangy [keto coleslaw](/recipes/keto-coleslaw). Leftovers keep 3 days in the fridge; re-crisp 3 to 4 minutes in the air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. For more technique tips, see our [beginner's air fryer guide](/blog/beginners-air-fryer-guide) and plan-ahead ideas in the [keto meal prep tips](/blog/keto-meal-prep-guide). FAQ: - **How accurate are the nutrition values listed?** They are calculated from standard databases using the exact amounts below. Minor variation can occur from brand differences and how much rendered fat you keep. - **Should I adjust portion size if my daily carb limit is lower?** Yes. Halve the serving to reduce to about 2 to 3 grams net carbs, or add a zero carb protein to stay full. - **Can I eat this on a strict keto diet under 20 grams net carbs per day?** Yes. At roughly 5 grams net carbs per serving, it fits most strict keto plans.

Prep: 10 min. Cook: 18 min. Servings: 4.

Ingredients

• Pork belly, skinless, 4 ounces (113 grams), cut into 1/2 inch cubes
• Brussels sprouts, 12 ounces (340 grams), trimmed and halved
• Parmesan cheese, shaved, 1 ounce (28 grams)
• Olive oil, 1 teaspoon, or use an olive oil sprayer
• Kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon
• Smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon
• Garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon
• Lemon zest, 1/2 teaspoon
• Fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon
• Red pepper flakes, 1/4 teaspoon, optional

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 minutes. Fit the basket with a keto air fryer grill pan or grill plate if you have one.
2. Add pork belly cubes in a single layer. Air fry 8 to 10 minutes, shaking once, until crisp at the edges. Verify the largest piece reaches at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit with a digital meat thermometer.
3. If you cooked pork belly as a slab instead of cubes, rest it 3 minutes before slicing, per USDA guidance. For cubes, transfer to a rack to stay crisp. If there is excess rendered fat in the basket, carefully pour most off, leaving about 2 teaspoons.
4. In a bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil or a light spray. Add salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss to coat.
5. Return seasoned Brussels sprouts to the air fryer in a single layer. Air fry 8 to 10 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, shaking once, until tender with charred edges.
6. Add pork belly back to the basket for the final 1 to 2 minutes to re-crisp and warm through. Transfer to a bowl, toss with lemon zest and juice, then fold in shaved Parmesan. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Serve hot.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer