Description
Transform a humble head of cauliflower into a crispy, spicy, and utterly addictive sensation with this simple air fryer recipe. Perfect as a healthy snack, appetizer, or side dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (your favorite brand)
- Optional for serving: ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery and carrot sticks, chopped scallions
Instructions
- Prep Cauliflower: Wash and thoroughly dry cauliflower. Cut into uniform, bite-sized florets (approx. 1-1.5 inches).
- Season: In a large bowl, toss florets with olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- First Air Fry: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange seasoned cauliflower in a single layer in the basket (cook in batches if needed). Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until tender-crisp.
- Sauce: Transfer par-cooked cauliflower back to the bowl. Pour buffalo sauce over florets and toss gently until every piece is evenly coated.
- Second Air Fry: Return sauced cauliflower to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for another 5-8 minutes at 375°F (190°C), shaking halfway, until sauce is bubbly and caramelized, and cauliflower is crispy.
- Serve: Serve immediately with cooling dips like ranch or blue cheese, and crisp celery and carrot sticks. Garnish with fresh scallions if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20-25 mins