Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Name: Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup buffalo sauce; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour); 1/2 cup water; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe offers a mouthwatering twist on a classic appetizer, perfect for game day or a healthy snack. Crispy, spicy, and drenched in zesty buffalo sauce, this dish is not only satisfying but also guilt-free. Serve it with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious treat that everyone will love, making it an ideal option for plant-based eaters and spice enthusiasts alike.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2025-11-23T10:06:34.562Z

Why Choose Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower?

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings. By using cauliflower instead of meat, this dish packs fewer calories while still giving you that deliciously spicy kick you crave. This vegan option is perfect for those who want to enjoy the robust flavors of buffalo sauce without compromising their plant-based lifestyle.

Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it's also incredibly versatile. You can customize the spice level by choosing your favorite buffalo sauce—whether you prefer it mild or extra hot. Pair it with a cooling dip, like ranch or blue cheese, to balance the heat, enhancing the overall flavor without overwhelming your palate.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Whether it's game day, a family gathering, or a casual get-together with friends, Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower makes for an ideal appetizer that everyone will enjoy. It impressively combines fun finger food with the nutritious benefits of vegetables, making it a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Set out a platter of these golden, crispy bites with a variety of dipping sauces for a delightful and interactive snack experience.

Moreover, this dish is a fantastic way to introduce more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste. The addictive spice of buffalo sauce makes it easy to enjoy cauliflower in a whole new light. If you're looking for ways to sneak in more greens, this recipe can help you reach your health goals without any fuss.

Quick Cooking Convenience

One of the standout features of this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe is its quick cooking time. The air fryer not only leaves the cauliflower crispy on the outside but also cooks it faster than traditional frying methods. This means you can whip up a delicious snack in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings—no need for extensive preparation or waiting for the oven to preheat.

Additionally, with an air fryer, you can reduce the amount of oil typically used in frying, making this a healthier cooking method. The result is perfectly crispy bites without the excess calories and fat, allowing you to indulge guilt-free. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze, which means more time to enjoy your delicious creation!

Ingredients

Buffalo Cauliflower Ingredients

1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup buffalo sauce
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Prepare the Cauliflower

In a large bowl, mix flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to create a batter. Dip the cauliflower florets into the batter, ensuring they are well-coated.

Air Fry the Cauliflower

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the battered cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through until crispy.

Toss in Buffalo Sauce

Once cooked, carefully remove the cauliflower from the air fryer and place it in a clean bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the cauliflower and toss until well coated.

Serve

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, if desired.

Health Benefits of Cauliflower

Cauliflower is often hailed as a superfood for good reason. Packed with vitamins C, K, and several B vitamins, this vegetable is a powerhouse of nutrients that can support immune function and bone health. It's also high in antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Incorporating cauliflower into your diet can contribute to overall well-being while still allowing you to enjoy tasty meals.

Rich in fiber and low in calories, cauliflower is also an excellent option for those looking to manage their weight. The high fiber content promotes feelings of fullness, making it an effective choice for weight loss or maintenance plans. This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower dish allows you to indulge in bold flavors without derailing your health goals, an ideal balance for anyone conscious about their nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

While Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is delicious on its own, enhancing it with the right sides and dips can elevate your snack game even further. Consider serving it alongside sliced veggies like carrots and celery for a classic buffalo-style presentation. This not only adds crunch but also provides a refreshing contrast to the heat of the buffalo sauce.

For dipping sauces, traditional options like creamy ranch or tangy blue cheese work perfectly to complement the spicy cauliflower. However, don't hesitate to experiment with a yogurt-based dip or even a spicy peanut sauce for an exciting twist. These additions will cater to various taste preferences, delighting all your guests.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower, storing it properly can extend its shelf life. Allow the cauliflower to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container and storing it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain its crispy texture, avoid stacking the florets too closely together in the container.

When it comes to reheating, the air fryer is your best friend. Simply preheat the air fryer to around 350°F (175°C), then reheat the cauliflower for about 5 minutes or until it’s hot and crispy again. This technique helps reclaim that fresh, just-cooked texture that can sometimes be lost when using a microwave.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free flour to make the batter.

→ What can I serve with buffalo cauliflower?

It pairs well with ranch or blue cheese dressing as a dip.