Air-Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

If you’re on the hunt for a deliciously spicy, crunchy treat that also happens to be plant-based, look no further than this Air-Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower. This recipe is perfect for game day snacking, a vibrant side dish, or even a healthy appetizer for your next gathering. With the perfect balance of heat and flavor, these cauliflower florets will have even the most devoted meat lovers asking for seconds. Plus, using an air fryer means you can enjoy all that crispy goodness without the guilt of deep frying.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this Air-Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower stand out is not just the bold flavor of Buffalo sauce but also the unique texture achieved through air frying. The cauliflower gets that delightful crunch while remaining tender on the inside. Additionally, the recipe is versatile; you can adjust the spice level and even make it gluten-free by swapping regular breadcrumbs for panko. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a classic flavor in a healthier form!

Ingredient Checklist

• 3 cups cauliflower, cut into 1 1/2-inch-thick florets
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (or vegan butter, if needed)
• 5 tablespoons Buffalo sauce, divided
• Sea salt, to taste
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
• Nonstick cooking spray

Tools of the Trade

• Air Fryer: The star of the show, ensuring your cauliflower gets that crispy texture without frying.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients and tossing the cauliflower.
• Cooking Brush: To help spread the melted butter evenly over the florets.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.

From Start to Finish: Air-Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Begin by washing your cauliflower thoroughly. Cut it into 1 1/2-inch-thick florets, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter. If you’re using vegan butter, the process is the same. Once melted, stir in 2 tablespoons of the Buffalo sauce until well combined.

Step 3: Toss the Cauliflower

In a large mixing bowl, add the cauliflower florets. Pour the butter and Buffalo sauce mixture over the florets, sprinkling in a bit of sea salt. Toss until every floret is evenly coated in the spicy goodness.

Step 4: Coat with Panko

Add the panko breadcrumbs to the bowl and toss again to coat the cauliflower in the breadcrumbs. This step adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender cauliflower.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your cauliflower begins cooking at the right temperature for that perfect crispiness.

Step 6: Air-Fry the Cauliflower

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer in the basket. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.

Step 7: Cook and Toss

Air fry the cauliflower for about 10 minutes. After 5 minutes, give the basket a gentle shake to ensure even cooking. When the timer goes off, check for desired crispiness. If you prefer more crunch, feel free to add a couple more minutes.

Step 8: Toss with More Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the remaining 3 tablespoons of Buffalo sauce. Once the cauliflower is done, transfer it to a serving dish and drizzle the additional sauce over the top. Toss again to coat.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Air-Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower immediately, and watch as it disappears! Pair it with a cooling dip, like ranch or blue cheese, to balance the heat.

Quick Replacement Ideas

• Use vegan butter instead of regular butter for a dairy-free option.
• Swap out Buffalo sauce for another hot sauce if you prefer a different flavor.
• Replace panko breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free option.
• Try adding spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika for an extra flavor boost.

Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary

This Air-Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is incredibly versatile, and you can adjust the spice level based on your preference. If you love heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. Additionally, make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, as different air fryer models may vary slightly. The goal is to achieve that perfect balance of crunch and tenderness!

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze the cauliflower, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Ask & Learn

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

While fresh cauliflower yields the best results, you can use frozen cauliflower as well. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before proceeding with the recipe.

Is there a way to make this recipe oil-free?

Yes! You can omit the butter entirely and use a bit of vegetable broth or just the Buffalo sauce to coat the cauliflower. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

What can I serve with Air-Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower?

This dish pairs wonderfully with dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or even a creamy avocado dip. It can also be served alongside a fresh salad or as part of a larger platter with other snacks.

How can I adjust the heat level of the Buffalo sauce?

If you prefer a milder flavor, look for a milder Buffalo sauce or mix in some yogurt or sour cream to tone it down. You can also reduce the amount of sauce used for coating.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Creamy Pasta with Broccoli
• Vegan Banana Bread
• The Best Gluten-Free Brownies

Final Thoughts

With its bold flavors and crispy texture, this Air-Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is bound to be a hit at any gathering or simply as a satisfying snack. It’s not just easy to make but also incredibly adaptable to your taste preferences. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking for a healthier alternative to traditional Buffalo wings, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive in and enjoy the spicy, crunchy goodness that is Air-Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower!