Pork
Powerproteinplates
Paleo Spiced Pork Belly Sheet Pan with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
By Powerproteinplates Test KitchenReviewed by Powerproteinplates Editorial TeamPublished Apr 29, 2026 · Updated May 11, 2026
American
60 mins
high-proteinpaleo-friendlyathlete-fuelhigh-fibereasy-recipesbalancedwhole-foodsweight-losslow-calorie
An easy, paleo-friendly sheet pan recipe showcasing spiced pork belly with roasted Brussels sprouts for a high-protein, high-fiber meal. Perfect for athletes, whole-foods fans, and those pursuing weight loss or muscle-building.
Prep
15 min
Cook
45 min
Total
60 min
Servings
4
Difficulty
easy
Cuisine
American
Ingredients
Servings
4
- 1.5 pounds pork belly, skin scored
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil, divided
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
-
In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, sea salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
-
Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels. Rub 1 tablespoon of avocado oil evenly over the pork belly skin, then coat the entire pork belly with the spice mixture.
-
Place the pork belly skin-side up on a large rimmed baking sheet.
-
In a bowl, toss halved Brussels sprouts with the remaining 1 tablespoon avocado oil, fresh rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with sea salt and black pepper.
-
Arrange the Brussels sprouts evenly around the pork belly on the sheet pan.
-
Roast for 40-45 minutes until the pork belly skin is crispy and Brussels sprouts are golden and tender.
-
If needed, broil for 2-3 minutes to further crisp the pork skin, watching carefully to avoid burning.
-
Remove from oven and let pork belly rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
-
Serve sliced pork belly with roasted Brussels sprouts for a balanced, protein-packed paleo meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Reader questions and answers for this recipe will appear here.
Customize this Paleo Spiced Pork Belly Sheet Pan to match your taste preferences or dietary needs while maintaining high-protein, paleo-friendly, and balanced nutrition:
- Chicken: Substitute pork belly with skin-on chicken thighs for a lean, flavorful paleo-compliant protein.
- Beef: Use beef short ribs or other marbled cuts for a rich, satisfying alternative ideal for muscle building and athlete fuel.
- Seafood: Replace pork belly with fatty fish like salmon or mackerel to increase omega-3 content while remaining paleo and protein-rich.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Use roasted cauliflower steaks or marinated smoked tofu for a paleo-inspired, fiber-rich meal (tofu for vegan, cauliflower for paleo).
- Legumes: Though not paleo, roasted chickpeas or black beans add plant-based protein and fiber, supporting weight loss.
- Dairy Alternatives: Opt for avocado oil as suggested, or try coconut oil or ghee (if dairy is acceptable) to keep it paleo and heart-healthy.
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: The recipe is naturally low-carb; add sautéed leafy greens or cauliflower rice for additional fiber with minimal carbohydrates.
Each swap retains the quick, easy, and wholesome nature of the meal, perfectly aligned with athlete-fuel, weight-loss, and paleo lifestyle goals.
Protein Highlight
This Paleo Spiced Pork Belly Sheet Pan delivers a rich source of high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and sustained energy. Pork belly offers a satisfying combination of protein and healthy fats that promote satiety and support muscle-building—ideal for athletes and those focused on weight loss. Paired with fiber-rich, antioxidant-packed Brussels sprouts, this dish supports digestive health and balanced nutrition. Embrace a nutrient-dense, whole-food paleo meal that fuels recovery and maintains consistent energy levels—perfect for fitness-minded lifestyles.
Goal Fit
This Paleo Spiced Pork Belly Sheet Pan with Roasted Brussels Sprouts is an optimal choice for athlete fuel, muscle-building, and weight loss objectives. The pork belly provides concentrated protein and healthy fats crucial for muscle repair and long-lasting energy, while fiber-rich Brussels sprouts enhance digestive health and increase fullness to aid fat loss.
As a paleo-friendly, low-calorie, and whole-foods meal, it avoids processed ingredients and delivers well-rounded nutrition. The flavorful spice blend adds complexity without added sugars or preservatives, making it ideal for clean eating routines.
Additionally, its quick 15-minute prep makes it perfectly suited for easy meal prep, helping you maintain consistent nutrition during busy schedules.
Protein Density
This recipe features a high protein density primarily from nutrient-rich pork belly, making it perfect for those targeting muscle-building and athlete fuel. With abundant essential amino acids, it supports recovery and muscle growth. Complementing this, fiber-dense Brussels sprouts provide digestive benefits and contribute to a nourishing nutrient profile favorable for weight loss and heart health.
As a high-protein, paleo-friendly, and whole-foods dish, it fits well in categories like easy recipes and meal-prep-friendly. The protein density promotes lasting satiety and energy, supporting active lifestyles that manage calorie intake without compromising nutrition.
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