Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

A Spicy, Crispy, and Healthier Alternative to Buffalo Wings

Buffalo cauliflower is a fantastic vegetarian alternative to traditional buffalo wings. Made with crispy, air-fried cauliflower florets coated in spicy buffalo sauce, this dish offers the same bold flavors with a fraction of the calories and fat. Whether you’re serving it as a game-day snack, a side dish, or a main course, air fryer buffalo cauliflower is a quick and easy way to satisfy your craving for something spicy and crispy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the flavors of buffalo wings without deep frying.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in about 25 minutes.
• Crispy Texture: The air fryer delivers perfectly crisp cauliflower without excessive oil.
• Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, side, or even in wraps or salads.
• Customizable: Adjust spice levels to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness, optional)
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 tablespoon melted butter or olive oil
• Cooking spray

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the cauliflower.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a smooth batter.

Step 3: Coat the Cauliflower

Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. If using panko breadcrumbs, roll each battered floret in the breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Step 4: Air Fry the Cauliflower

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer, leaving space between each piece. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Toss in Buffalo Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix the buffalo sauce with melted butter or olive oil. Once the cauliflower is done, toss the crispy florets in the sauce until evenly coated.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, and carrot sticks.

Variations

• Extra Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter or mix hot sauce into the buffalo sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free panko.
• Vegan: Replace butter with olive oil or plant-based butter.
• BBQ Version: Swap buffalo sauce for barbecue sauce for a milder option.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store 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 5 minutes to regain crispiness.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as cauliflower may become soggy upon reheating.

FAQs

How do I keep the cauliflower crispy?

For the crispiest texture, use panko breadcrumbs and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

Can I bake this instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What can I serve with buffalo cauliflower?

Serve with celery, carrot sticks, and dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, but thaw and pat dry before coating to prevent excess moisture.

How can I make it less spicy?

Reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or mix it with honey or butter to mellow the heat.

What air fryer works best for this recipe?

Any air fryer with a basket-style design works well, but larger models allow more even cooking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

Why is my cauliflower soggy?

Too much batter or overcrowding the air fryer can lead to sogginess—use less batter and cook in a single layer.

Is buffalo cauliflower keto-friendly?

No, due to the flour and breadcrumbs, but you can use almond flour and pork rind crumbs for a keto version.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep the cauliflower and batter in advance, storing them separately until ready to cook.

Conclusion

Air fryer buffalo cauliflower is a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional wings. With its crispy texture and bold flavor, it’s perfect for parties, snacks, or even a light meal. Quick, easy, and customizable, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a tasty and nutritious dish.

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