Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is a tasty, crispy treat that combines the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the satisfying crunch of perfectly cooked cauliflower. It’s a simple way to enjoy a favorite game day snack or a quick veggie-packed appetizer that feels anything but ordinary.
I love making this because the air fryer does all the hard work, giving the cauliflower a golden, crispy texture without making it greasy or heavy. Plus, the spicy buffalo sauce clings to every bite, giving just the right amount of heat that’s fun to eat but not overwhelming. It feels like a little celebration in your mouth every time!
My favorite way to serve this is with a side of cool ranch or blue cheese dressing and some celery sticks to balance out the heat. It’s also a great finger food to share with friends or keep all to yourself when you’re craving something zesty and crunchy. This recipe always makes me smile because it’s an easy, wholesome way to get a little spicy without any fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Fresh, medium-sized heads work best for even cooking. If you want a twist, try broccolini or broccoli florets for a different texture but still crispy in the air fryer.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps the batter stick and gives a good crispy crust. For gluten-free, use chickpea flour or rice flour; both crisp nicely and keep the batter light.
Buffalo Sauce: I like Frank’s RedHot for its classic tang and heat. You can swap for any buffalo-style sauce or even mix hot sauce with melted butter to control the spice level.
Olive Oil or Butter: Adding a bit of fat to the sauce helps it stick and adds richness. Choose butter for a creamier flavor or olive oil for a lighter option.
How Do You Get Cauliflower Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Crispy cauliflower is the star here, and the air fryer makes it easy. Here’s how I make sure each bite is crunch-worthy:
- Coat fully: Make sure each floret is coated in batter evenly; this creates that golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd: Place florets in a single layer with some space to allow hot air circulation—this keeps them crispy instead of soggy.
- Shake halfway: Toss the basket gently halfway through cooking to brown all sides evenly.
- Finish with sauce: Toss in buffalo sauce after cooking, then air fry a few more minutes to set the sauce but not get soggy.
Using these tips, your cauliflower will come out spicy, crunchy, and absolutely delicious every time. I’ve found that patience and space make all the difference!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I love using it because it cooks everything evenly and makes the cauliflower super crispy without deep frying.
- Large mixing bowl – to whisk the batter and toss the cauliflower in the sauce easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise measurements of flour, water, and sauce ingredients.
- Silicone spatula or spoon – helps mix the batter and coat the cauliflower thoroughly.
- Serving platter – to display the crispy cauliflower with garnishes and dips.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Protein swap: Use cauliflower rice or broccoli florets instead of whole cauliflower for a different veggie crunch.
- Spice level: Mix in a dash of cayenne, chili powder, or hot sauce to tailor the heat to your liking.
- Extra flavor: Toss cauliflower in honey buffalo or garlic Parmesan sauce after cooking for a different twist.
- Garnish options: Top with chopped green onions, cilantro, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra flavor.
How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cauliflower and Batter:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative)
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Buffalo Sauce:
- 1 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- Fresh chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
To Serve:
- Celery sticks
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, plus 15-20 minutes cooking time in the air fryer. It’s quick and easy from start to finish, making it perfect for a snack or appetizer any day of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Batter:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until fully combined into a smooth batter.
2. Coat the Cauliflower:
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated. This will help the cauliflower get crispy and hold the delicious sauce later.
3. Air Fry the Cauliflower:
Place the coated cauliflower pieces evenly in the air fryer basket in a single layer—don’t overcrowd them. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to brown all sides evenly. The cauliflower should be golden and crispy.
4. Toss in Buffalo Sauce:
While the cauliflower cooks, mix the buffalo wing sauce with olive oil or melted butter in a large bowl. When the cauliflower is done crisping, toss the hot florets in the sauce until fully coated.
5. Set the Sauce:
Put the sauced cauliflower back into the air fryer basket and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. This helps the sauce stick well and adds extra flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Transfer the buffalo cauliflower to a serving plate, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if you like. Serve alongside celery sticks and your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Enjoy your crispy, spicy snack!
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but be sure to thaw and pat it dry thoroughly before coating with batter. Excess moisture can prevent crispiness in the air fryer.
How Should I Store Leftover Buffalo Cauliflower?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore crispness.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour or chickpea flour to keep the batter crispy and gluten-free.
What’s the Best Way to Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or mix it with a little honey or melted butter. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or extra hot sauce to the buffalo sauce.
