Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe makes cauliflower crispy on the outside and soft inside. The light batter sticks to each floret and the air fryer gives a crunchy finish without deep frying. Tossing the cooked florets in buffalo sauce adds bright heat and flavor without making them soggy.

This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe is easy and fast. You need a few common ingredients and an air fryer. It makes a great snack, side, or party bite. If you like simple, no-fuss recipes, try this along with an easy meatloaf recipe for a full meal.

Why you should try this recipe

Try it because it is healthier than fried wings but still tasty and spicy. It is quick to make and works for vegans if you skip the butter. You can serve it at parties, for game day, or as a weeknight treat. Pair it with warm bread or a dip like ranch or blue cheese, or with Brazilian cheese bread for a fun mix.

How to make Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe

This section shows the main steps you will follow from start to finish. Read the full Step-by-Step Instructions below before you start.

Ingredients :

• 1 medium head of cauliflower – cut into bite-sized florets
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 3/4 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter – melted
• Cooking spray

Equipments Needed

• Air fryer
• Large bowl
• Small bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Tongs
• Baking sheet or plate

Step-by-Step Instructions :

1. Prepare the Cauliflower:
   • Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
2. Make the Batter:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower but still pourable.
3. Coat the Cauliflower:
   • Add the cauliflower florets to the batter, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Shake off any excess batter before placing them in the air fryer.
4. Air Fry the Cauliflower:
   • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
   • Place the battered cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches.
   • Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking, until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy.
5. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce:
   • While the cauliflower is cooking, mix the buffalo sauce with the melted butter in a small bowl.
6. Toss the Cauliflower in Buffalo Sauce:
   • Once the cauliflower is done, place it in a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the cauliflower and toss until each floret is evenly coated.
7. Serve:
   • Serve the buffalo cauliflower immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese, and some celery sticks on the side.

How to serve Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe

Serve hot right after tossing in sauce. Offer ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks. You can also add it to bowls with rice, greens, and a drizzle of extra hot sauce for a spicier meal. For a different serving idea, make a platter with other finger foods and dips.

How to store Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe

Cool leftovers fully, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to keep it crisp. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture crispy.

Tips & Tricks

• Cut florets the same size so they cook evenly.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Cook in batches for the best crisp.
• If batter is too thick, add a little more water, one teaspoon at a time.
• For extra crunch, spray a light coat of cooking spray on the battered florets before air frying.
• To make vegan, use a vegan butter or omit the butter and use a vegan buffalo sauce.
• Try this with other veggies like cauliflower steaks or broccoli for a change, or pair the dish with buffalo chicken bowls for a full meal.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
• Less spicy: Use half the buffalo sauce and add a little honey to balance heat.
• Extra crunchy: After coating, roll florets in panko crumbs before air frying.
• Different sauces: Toss with BBQ sauce, teriyaki, or garlic parmesan instead of buffalo.
• Make it oil-free: Skip the cooking spray and rely on the air fryer’s hot air to crisp.

FAQs

Q: Can I bake these instead of air frying?
A: Yes. Bake at 425°F (220°C) on a lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp.

Q: Will the batter fall off during cooking?
A: Lightly shake off excess batter and place florets in a single layer. Cooking in batches and not overcrowding helps the batter stick.

Q: Can I make the buffalo sauce from scratch?
A: Yes. Mix hot sauce and melted butter or a vegan butter substitute. Add a pinch of garlic powder if you like.

Q: Can I freeze cooked buffalo cauliflower?
A: You can freeze before saucing. Freeze the cooked, cooled florets on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Reheat in the air fryer and toss with sauce after reheating.

Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Yes. Reduce the buffalo sauce for less heat and serve with a mild dip.

Conclusion

For a quick, tasty snack that feels like wings without the fry, this recipe works great. You can also see a similar take on air fryer buffalo cauliflower at Love and Lemons’ Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe for more ideas. Another version with helpful tips is available at Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower – The Almond Eater.

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