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Crispy Cauliflower: A Deliciously Crunchy Treat


  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Enjoy crispy cauliflower with a golden-brown coating! This easy, healthier alternative to fried foods can be baked, air-fried, or fried to perfection. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs (or plant-based milk for a vegan option)
  • 1/2 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for extra crispiness)
  • Cooking spray or extra olive oil for baking

Instructions

Prepare the Cauliflower
Wash and cut the cauliflower into even, bite-sized florets. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure the coating sticks well.

2. Set Up the Breading Station

  • In a bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  • In another bowl, whisk the eggs and milk (or just plant-based milk for a vegan option).
  • In a third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese (if using).

3. Coat the Cauliflower

  • Dip each cauliflower floret into the flour mixture, shaking off the excess.
  • Dunk it into the egg (or milk) mixture to ensure full coverage.
  • Roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.

4. Cook the Cauliflower

Baking Method:

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Place the breaded florets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Air Fryer Method:

  • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  • Arrange the florets in a single layer in the basket.
  • Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Frying Method (For Extra Crispiness):

  • Heat about 1 inch of oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
  • Fry the cauliflower in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
  • Drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.

Notes

  • Spicy Kick – Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture.
  • Cheesy Coating – Mix in more Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
  • Herb-Infused – Add dried oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
  • Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
  • Buffalo Style – Toss with buffalo sauce after cooking.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (baked) / 12-15 minutes (air-fried) / 3-4 minutes (fried)
  • Category: appetizer, side dish,snack
  • Method: Baking, Air Frying, Frying
  • Cuisine: American, Fusion

Keywords: Crispy cauliflower, baked cauliflower, air fryer cauliflower, healthy snack, cauliflower appetizer