This air fryer cauliflower is crispy, saucy, and surprisingly satisfying. If you’re looking for a crispy cauliflower air fryer recipe that works for busy nights, this buffalo-style version is fast, comforting, and easy to love—even if your family usually wants meat.
Before You Start
No deep frying, no complicated steps. Just basic ingredients and an air fryer.
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper
- ⅓ cup buffalo sauce
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for dipping
Instructions
- Prep the batter: In a bowl, whisk flour and milk until smooth.
- Season the coating: In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the cauliflower: Dip florets into batter, then into breadcrumbs. Press gently so the coating sticks.
- Air fry: Place cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 380°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Sauce it up: Toss hot cauliflower with buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve: Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese.
Why This Works for Busy Nights
- Ready in about 20 minutes
- No oven, no oil mess
- Easy to scale up or down
- Dippable = kid-friendly
Variations
- Mild: Use BBQ sauce instead of buffalo
- Extra crispy: Spray lightly with oil before air frying
- Vegan: Use plant-based milk
Storage & Reheat
Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 4–5 minutes.
FAQ
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes—use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Can I prep ahead?
You can cut the cauliflower ahead, but coat and air fry fresh for best crunch.
Closing
If you need a break from chicken but still want comfort food, this air fryer cauliflower delivers every time.
