Name: Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-484404H17M56S
Total time: PT-484404H17M56S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option); 1/2 cup water (or almond milk for a dairy-free option); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 tablespoon melted butter (or vegan butter for dairy-free); Optional: Fresh parsley, for garnish; Optional: Blue cheese or ranch dressing, for dipping

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If you’re craving a healthy and delicious snack or appetizer, look no further than this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower. This crispy, spicy, and tangy dish offers all the flavors of traditional buffalo wings but in a lighter, plant-based form. The cauliflower is perfectly coated in a spicy buffalo sauce and air-fried to crispy perfection, making it a guilt-free snack you can enjoy any time. Whether you’re looking for a tasty side dish, a healthy appetizer for your next gathering, or a fun alternative to chicken wings, Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is the perfect option.

The air fryer makes this recipe so easy and quick while also keeping it light by using little to no oil. The cauliflower’s natural sweetness is perfectly balanced with the bold, zesty buffalo sauce, creating a dish that is both satisfying and packed with flavor. Plus, you can dip these crispy florets in a side of creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing to take the flavor over the top!

This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe is not only great for those who love spicy food but also a fantastic option for vegetarians or anyone looking to reduce their meat consumption without sacrificing taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthy Alternative

This dish offers all the flavor of traditional buffalo wings but without the meat or deep frying. It’s a guilt-free, plant-based snack that’s high in fiber and vitamins.

2. Quick and Easy

With just a few ingredients and the help of an air fryer, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect snack or appetizer when you’re short on time.

3. Crispy and Flavorful

The air fryer ensures that the cauliflower florets come out perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside, all without needing a ton of oil.

4. Customizable Spice Level

You can adjust the level of heat in the buffalo sauce by adding more or less hot sauce, depending on your preference. It’s perfect for people who love heat or those who prefer a milder version.

5. Versatile

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower can be served as an appetizer, snack, side dish, or even a topping for salads or wraps. You can also pair it with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese.

Ingredients

Cauliflower (cut into florets)
Olive oil (or cooking spray)
Buffalo sauce
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Optional: Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional: Dipping sauce (ranch or blue cheese dressing)

Variations

Spicy Kick: If you want to increase the heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the buffalo sauce mixture.
Parmesan Buffalo Cauliflower: Add some grated Parmesan cheese to the cauliflower after air frying for an extra layer of flavor.
Crispy Breading: For extra crunch, coat the cauliflower florets in breadcrumbs or panko before air frying.
Vegan Version: Ensure the buffalo sauce you use is vegan-friendly, as some brands may contain dairy. Alternatively, make your own buffalo sauce using plant-based butter.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Start by cutting the cauliflower into small florets. Make sure the pieces are even in size so they cook evenly in the air fryer.

Step 2: Season the Cauliflower

In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil (or cooking spray). Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure the cauliflower is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.

Step 3: Air Fry the Cauliflower

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd them so they can crisp up properly. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Coat in Buffalo Sauce

While the cauliflower is air frying, heat the buffalo sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, or microwave it for 30 seconds. Once the cauliflower is crispy, remove it from the air fryer and transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the cauliflower and toss gently to coat the florets evenly.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the buffalo cauliflower hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: For the crispiest results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook the cauliflower in batches.
Use a Light Coat of Oil: Too much oil can make the cauliflower soggy. A light coat is all you need to help the seasoning and buffalo sauce stick.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you like your buffalo cauliflower less spicy, reduce the amount of hot sauce in the buffalo sauce or choose a milder buffalo sauce.
Shake the Basket: Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to ensure the cauliflower crisps evenly on all sides.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Make sure to preheat your air fryer for the best results, as it helps the cauliflower cook evenly and become crispy.

How to Serve

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower can be served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. Pair it with dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or even a creamy avocado dressing. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. It also makes an excellent topping for a wrap or bowl with rice, greens, and your favorite veggies.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover buffalo cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore its crispiness.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the cooked buffalo cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make buffalo cauliflower in the oven instead of the air fryer?

Yes! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.

2. Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just ensure it’s fully thawed and pat it dry before seasoning and air frying.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is naturally gluten-free, but make sure the buffalo sauce and any other ingredients used are also gluten-free.

4. How do I make buffalo cauliflower extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispiness, make sure the cauliflower florets are well-coated in oil or cooking spray, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

5. Can I make buffalo cauliflower without oil?

Yes, you can skip the oil and use a cooking spray or air fryer without any oil for a low-fat version of this recipe.

6. How spicy is buffalo cauliflower?

The level of spiciness can vary depending on the buffalo sauce you use. You can control the heat by adding more or less hot sauce to the recipe.

7. Can I use a different sauce instead of buffalo sauce?

Yes! You can use barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, or any sauce you like for a different flavor profile.

8. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, ensure that the buffalo sauce you use is vegan-friendly or make your own using plant-based ingredients.

9. How do I prevent the cauliflower from becoming soggy?

Make sure to coat the cauliflower lightly with oil or cooking spray, and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow for optimal crispiness.

10. Can I make buffalo cauliflower ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cauliflower ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it in the air fryer before serving.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is a flavorful, healthy, and crispy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, the bold flavors of buffalo sauce combined with the crispy cauliflower will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe is quick to make, easily customizable, and a great way to enjoy a lighter version of buffalo wings. Try it out, and you’ll have a new favorite healthy snack on hand!