Crispy, spicy, and satisfying, Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional wings. This dish brings bold flavors and a satisfying crunch, making it perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a lighter alternative to buffalo wings, with all the flavor and crunch.
Quick and easy to prepare, thanks to the air fryer.
Perfect for gatherings, game nights, or even a simple weeknight snack.
It’s vegetarian-friendly and can easily be made vegan by skipping the butter.
Delicious with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for a richer sauce)
Directions
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt until smooth.
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring full coverage, then shake off any excess.
Place the battered florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden and crispy.
While the cauliflower cooks, combine the buffalo sauce and melted butter in a bowl.
Toss the cooked cauliflower in the buffalo sauce mixture until evenly coated.
Return the coated cauliflower to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to set the sauce.
Serve immediately with dipping sauce and celery sticks.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Variations
Make it vegan: Skip the butter in the buffalo sauce or use a plant-based alternative.
Add a smoky flavor: Mix smoked paprika into the batter for an extra layer of flavor.
Switch up the sauce: Try BBQ sauce or sweet chili sauce instead of buffalo sauce for a different twist.
Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter for more heat.
Low-carb option: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4-5 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cauliflower soggy.
Related Recipes:
FAQs
How can I make the cauliflower extra crispy?
For an extra crispy coating, spray the battered cauliflower with a light coat of cooking spray before air frying.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and pat it dry thoroughly before battering to avoid excess moisture.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.
Can I bake this instead of using an air fryer?
Absolutely! Bake the battered cauliflower on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What dipping sauces pair well with this dish?
Classic ranch or blue cheese dressing are great options, but you can also try garlic aioli or a yogurt-based dip for a lighter choice.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is a fantastic way to enjoy the bold flavors of buffalo sauce in a healthier form. With its crispy texture and spicy kick, it’s sure to become a crowd-pleaser at your table. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a snack, this recipe is a quick, delicious, and versatile choice that you’ll want to make again and again.
📖 Recipe:
Print
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy, spicy, and easy to make, Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is a healthier alternative to traditional wings. Perfect as a vegetarian-friendly snack, appetizer, or side dish, this dish is full of bold flavor and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for a richer sauce)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt until smooth.
- Dip cauliflower florets into the batter, ensuring full coverage. Shake off any excess batter.
- Arrange the battered cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Work in batches if necessary.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- In a bowl, mix buffalo sauce and melted butter.
- Toss the cooked cauliflower in the sauce mixture until evenly coated.
- Return the cauliflower to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to set the sauce.
- Serve hot with dipping sauces and celery sticks.
Notes
For a vegan version, skip the butter or use a plant-based alternative.
Spray cauliflower with cooking spray before air frying for extra crispiness.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 120 kcal
