Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
This recipe creates delicious Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower, a healthier, vegetarian twist on classic buffalo wings. Cauliflower florets are coated in seasoned panko breadcrumbs, air-fried until crispy, then tossed in a vibrant Frank's Red Hot Buffalo Sauce. It's a quick and flavorful appetizer or side dish.
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer
- 2 Mixing Bowls One large, one small
- 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons
- 1 Tongs or Spatula For tossing and handling hot cauliflower
Ingredients
Main
- 4 cups small cauliflower florets
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Sauce
Instructions
- Wash and cut cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets, ensuring they are dry.
- In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with kosher salt.
- In a separate small bowl, melt the unsalted butter.
- Add the cauliflower florets to the melted butter and toss until evenly coated.
- Transfer the butter-coated cauliflower to the panko mixture and toss until all florets are thoroughly covered.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the coated cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- While the last batch cooks, warm the Frank's Red Hot Buffalo Sauce in a large bowl.
- Add the crispy cauliflower to the bowl with the buffalo sauce and toss gently until well coated. Serve immediately.
Notes
To achieve the crispiest texture, ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary, allowing for proper air circulation. For a more tender interior, you can briefly steam or blanch the cauliflower florets before coating. Consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the panko mixture for an extra layer of flavor. Serve immediately with a side of cool ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks to balance the heat. Adjust the amount of Frank's Red Hot Buffalo Sauce to your preferred spice level.