Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Introduction

Looking for a spicy, crispy, and guilt-free snack or appetizer? This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is a flavor-packed, healthier alternative to wings. Made in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for game day, parties, or a meatless Monday dinner idea.

Ingredients List

1 head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup water
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2/3 cup buffalo sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
1 tbsp melted butter (optional, for a richer sauce)
Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for serving

Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the batter

In a bowl, whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 2: Coat the cauliflower

Dip cauliflower florets into the batter, allowing excess to drip off. Place coated florets on a parchment-lined tray.

Step 3: Air fry

Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place battered cauliflower in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.

Step 4: Toss in buffalo sauce

Mix buffalo sauce and melted butter in a bowl. Toss cooked cauliflower in the sauce until evenly coated.

Step 5: Finish and serve

Return to air fryer for 2–3 more minutes to crisp up. Serve hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes ~4)

Calories: 150 kcal
Fat: 7g
Carbs: 18g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 3g

Healthier Alternatives

Use whole wheat flour or almond flour for added nutrition
Try a low-sodium buffalo sauce
Bake in the oven at 425°F for 25 minutes if no air fryer is available

Serving Suggestions

Serve with celery sticks and carrot strips
Add to a wrap with lettuce and ranch
Top a salad with crispy buffalo cauliflower for a spicy twist

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Crowding the air fryer basket: Leads to soggy bites—cook in batches
Not flipping halfway: Ensures even crispiness
Skipping the second air fry: Helps lock in the buffalo flavor

Storing Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheat in the air fryer for 5 minutes at 375°F to regain crispiness
Not recommended for freezing

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is crunchy, spicy, and totally addictive. It’s a vegetarian-friendly crowd-pleaser that delivers bold flavor with a healthier twist.

Give it a try and let us know if you went team ranch or team blue cheese! Subscribe for more air fryer favorites.