So you’ve been eyeing that Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe online, right? Happens to the best of us. Maybe you’re like me, always on the hunt for less-greasy but still satisfying snacks. Or you’re just tired of plain veggies and want something that actually packs some punch. Honestly, this is the one that changed my mind about cauliflower (I used to just push it around on my plate). If you want more air fryer inspo, check out these other air fryer recipes or, for quick bites, try the easy 10-minute air fryer chicken sausage & veggies – both of those got a permanent spot in my bookmarks.
Recipe Features
I’m just going to say it: this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe tastes like a cheat day, but it’s not. The outside turns perfectly crispy, and the sauce smacks you with flavor without setting your mouth on fire. Plus, it’s so much easier (and less messy) than frying. No giant pot of oil or smoke alarm drama.
It only takes about 20 minutes. You mix up some batter, toss the cauliflower in, air fry, toss with sauce, then air fry again for that extra crisp. That double-cook? It’s the sweet spot. And if you’re worried about them falling apart or getting soggy (ugh), trust me, just follow the steps and you’ll have snack perfection. This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe fits weeknight dinners, game days… I bring it as a party side, and someone always asks for the recipe. No leftovers, ever.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Pat Dry | Make sure to pat your cauliflower dry after washing to avoid sogginess. |
| Avoid Overcrowding | Keep space between florets in the air fryer to ensure even crisping. |
| Use Oil Spray | A light spray of oil helps achieve a crispy texture. |
| Keep an Eye on Heat | Adjust the temperature based on your air fryer and flip halfway for even cooking. |
Tips for Perfect Buffalo Cauliflower
Here’s where things can easily go sideways (and I’ve definitely messed it up before). First, pat your cauliflower dry after washing. Water is the enemy of crispiness. When mixing your batter, don’t overdo the liquid. Too runny, and the coating slips right off. Kinda thick is good.
I usually spritz the battered florets with a little oil spray before they go in the air fryer. That’s the difference between “meh” and “holy moly, crunchy.” Don’t overcrowd your basket. Give ’em some elbow room, so they crisp on all sides. Oh, and keep an eye on your air fryer’s heat. Every machine runs a bit different. Sneak a peek near the end to make sure you’re not heading toward the burnt zone. And if you love dippin’, set aside extra buffalo sauce for after they cook. Drizzle or dunk – you do you.
Storage Tips
Okay, listen. These are best eaten fresh and hot (all things air fryer pretty much are). But, little secret? If you actually have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for about two days, but the crispiness will fade a bit. That’s just life.
When you’re ready for round two, don’t microwave. Please. Pop them back in the air fryer for three to four minutes at 350°F. It kind of brings the crunch back – not day-one crisp, but still snackable. Definitely don’t freeze, unless you’re into spongy cauliflower (I’m not).
Variations and Substitutions
I get bored easily, so trust – I’ve tried some wild swaps on this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe. Swap regular flour for almond or gluten-free mix if you need it. Not a spice fan? Use BBQ sauce or even honey mustard (my picky niece goes for ranch).
Sometimes if I’m feeling cheesy, I sprinkle parmesan during the second air fry. And if you want more a “fried” vibe? Add panko crumbs to the batter. It’s like a party in your mouth. Need vegan? Use plant milk and vegan butter. I’ve made this recipe with broccoli before, too. Tastes awesome – looks funky.
More Air Fryer Recipes
If you’re loving this crispy trend, there’s a whole world of air fryer snacks you should not miss. Our cheesy air fryer hasselback potatoes recipe hits the spot for potato lovers (I mean, those cheesy edges!) and the air fryer zucchini gluten free crispy healthy snack is a hidden gem for crunchy veggie action. These are all solid for game day or just lazy couch snacking.
- Try air fryer mushrooms with cheese casserole bites if you want more bite-sized yum.
- Go for the classic air fryer baked potato, because who doesn’t need a cheese-loaded potato in their life?
- Mix and match these with your buffalo cauliflower for a full-on feast.
- There’s enough here to keep your air fryer busy all week.
Common Questions
Are these actually spicy?
Sorta, but you’re in charge of the heat. Add more or less buffalo sauce as you like.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
You can, but thaw and dry it really well first or the coating won’t stick right.
What dipping sauces work best?
Ranch or blue cheese is classic, but honestly, go bananas with whatever you like.
Do I need to flip them halfway?
Yup, flipping gives you even crunch all over. It takes two seconds, so worth it.
Is this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe healthy?
Compared to fried stuff, absolutely. Less oil, more fiber, still tastes like party food.
Try It Yourself – You’ll Regret Not Making This
So there you go, everything you need to conquer the Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe (it’s not even hard, seriously). The crispy texture, hot sauce kick, and easy clean-up make this a repeat performer at my place. If you want clever twists or more healthy cooking hacks, the folks at Love and Lemons have a killer buffalo cauliflower version, and The Almond Eater offers a unique angle too. Give this recipe a spin – and hey, don’t blame me when everyone starts asking for seconds.
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe perfect for snacks, game days, or as a party side.
Ingredients
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- Oil spray for crispiness
Instructions
- Pat the cauliflower florets dry after washing.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, water, garlic powder, and onion powder until slightly thick.
- Toss the cauliflower in the batter until fully coated.
- Spritz the battered florets with oil spray.
- Place the florets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Air fry at 375°F for about 10 minutes.
- Remove and toss the florets with buffalo sauce.
- Return them to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes for extra crispiness.
Notes
Serve with additional buffalo sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg