Name: Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
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

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s both delicious and easy to whip up, then this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe is just what you need! This vibrant recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. It’s also a fantastic crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or game day parties—who can resist that spicy, crispy goodness? Plus, it’s plant-based, so everyone can enjoy it without worrying about dietary restrictions.

Buffalo cauliflower has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen because it offers all the flavorful punch of traditional buffalo wings but with a healthier twist. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those last-minute cravings.
Flavor Explosion: The spicy buffalo sauce combined with the crispy cauliflower creates an irresistible flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this dish—it’s a fun way to enjoy veggies!
Versatile Snack: Whether as an appetizer or a side dish, this buffalo cauliflower fits right into any meal or occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step to making this delightful dish. You might already have some of these in your pantry! Here’s what you need:

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

Variations

One of the best parts about this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to experiment and make it your own with these fun ideas:

Add Some Heat: If you love spice, toss in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the batter for an extra kick.
Try Different Sauces: Switch things up by using teriyaki sauce or BBQ sauce instead of buffalo sauce for a different flavor profile.
Make It Cheesy: Sprinkle some nutritional yeast over the cauliflower before air frying for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Air Fry Other Veggies: Don’t stop at cauliflower! Try this batter on broccoli, zucchini, or even chickpeas for variety.

How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Start by cutting the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Keeping them uniform in size helps ensure they cook evenly and gives you that perfect crunch.

Step 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. You want the batter to be thick enough to coat the florets but still pourable—it’s crucial for that crispy exterior!

Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower

Add your cauliflower florets to the batter. Gently mix until each piece is fully coated. Don’t forget to shake off any excess batter; we want crispy bites without being too heavy!

Step 4: Air Fry the Cauliflower

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about three minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the battered cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket—cooking them in batches may be necessary if they don’t all fit. Cook for 12-15 minutes and shake the basket halfway through so every piece gets that lovely golden brown color.

Step 5: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

While your cauliflower is crisping up, mix together the buffalo sauce and melted butter in a small bowl. This combination adds richness and enhances that classic buffalo flavor.

Step 6: Toss the Cauliflower in Buffalo Sauce

Once your cauliflower is done air frying and perfectly crispy, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour your delicious buffalo sauce over it and toss gently until every floret is evenly coated.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your buffalo cauliflower immediately! Pair it with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese and add some crunchy celery sticks on the side for that classic touch. Enjoy every bite of this scrumptious snack!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe

Making the perfect Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is all about attention to detail and a pinch of creativity. Here are some tips to elevate your dish!

Use Fresh Cauliflower: Fresh florets not only taste better, but they also have a firmer texture, which helps them hold up during cooking and enhances the overall crunchiness.
Don’t Rush the Coating Process: Taking your time to evenly coat each floret ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. A well-coated cauliflower will absorb the buffalo sauce better and provide that satisfying kick.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder version, feel free to modify the amount of buffalo sauce or choose a milder brand. Experimenting with different sauces can help you find your ideal balance of heat.
Batch Cooking is Key: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cooking in batches allows for even hot air circulation, resulting in crispier cauliflower.
Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Air fryers can vary in performance; check on your cauliflower towards the end of cooking to prevent over-browning while still achieving that perfect golden color.

How to Serve Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe

Now that you’ve prepared this delicious dish, it’s time to think about how to present it! The way you serve your buffalo cauliflower can turn a simple appetizer into a show-stopping centerpiece for any gathering.

Garnishes

Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds color and a mild oniony flavor that complements the heat of the buffalo sauce nicely.
Fresh Cilantro: For a burst of freshness, consider adding chopped cilantro. It brings a bright flavor that balances the spiciness.
Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that enhances both appearance and taste.

Side Dishes

Celery Sticks: Classic companions for buffalo-flavored dishes, celery sticks offer a crunchy contrast and help cool down the spice.
Veggie Platter: Serve with an array of raw veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes for a refreshing side that pairs well with the richness of buffalo sauce.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomato, and lemon dressing makes for a healthy side offering that balances out the indulgence.
Guacamole with Tortilla Chips: The creamy texture of guacamole alongside crunchy chips provides an irresistible dip option that complements your spicy cauliflower.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower will be an absolute hit at any gathering! Enjoy every crispy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance, making it a fantastic option for quick snacks or appetizers throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the cauliflower to cool completely before storing.
Place the leftovers in an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

After cooling, arrange the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Use within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Place the frozen or refrigerated cauliflower in the basket.
Air fry for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just ensure it’s thawed and excess moisture is removed before battering and air frying. This will help achieve that desired crispiness.

What can I serve with my Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower?

You can pair it with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or dairy-free alternatives, alongside crunchy celery sticks or carrot sticks for a refreshing contrast.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour to keep your dish gluten-free while still enjoying those bold flavors.

How spicy is this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe?

The heat level largely depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for a less spicy sauce or adjust the amount of sauce used.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower as much as I do! Its flavorful crunch makes it a fantastic alternative to traditional buffalo wings while still satisfying those cravings. Whether you’re preparing it as an appetizer or a snack, I’m sure it will bring joy to your table. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

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Description

If you’re craving a snack that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare, look no further than this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe. Bursting with zesty spice and satisfying crunch, these cauliflower bites deliver all the excitement of traditional buffalo wings but with a healthier twist. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this plant-based delight that’s perfect for game day gatherings or as a quick weeknight treat. With its versatility, you can serve it as an appetizer or a side dish, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys the bold flavors without any worries about dietary restrictions. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this guilt-free indulgence!

Ingredients

Scale

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

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Instructions

Prepare the cauliflower by cutting it into uniform bite-sized florets.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Coat the cauliflower florets in the batter; shake off excess.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
Arrange the battered cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
While cooking, mix buffalo sauce and melted butter in a small bowl.
Once cooked, toss the crispy cauliflower in the buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
Serve immediately with celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauces.