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Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower Buffalo Style Recipe Easy and Perfect for Game Day

crispy air fryer cauliflower buffalo style recipe - featured image

Crunchy, fiery, and satisfying buffalo-style cauliflower bites made in the air fryer, perfect for game day or quick snacks with bold flavor and a crispy texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (240ml) water
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup (about 100g) panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup (120ml) buffalo sauce (hot sauce mixed with melted butter or vegan butter)
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) butter or vegan butter
  • Optional: Ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving

Instructions

  1. Wash and cut the cauliflower into evenly sized florets, about 1 to 1.5 inches each.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, water, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. Pour panko breadcrumbs into a separate shallow bowl.
  4. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip off, then roll in breadcrumbs until evenly coated. Place on a baking sheet or plate.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Arrange coated florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
  7. Melt butter in a small saucepan or microwave, then stir in buffalo sauce until combined and warm.
  8. Transfer cooked cauliflower to a large bowl and toss with buffalo sauce to coat evenly.
  9. Serve immediately with optional dipping sauce.

Notes

Dry cauliflower thoroughly before battering to prevent sogginess. Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking for even crispiness. If coating softens after tossing in sauce, reheat in air fryer for 1-2 minutes to crisp up again. For gluten-free, substitute flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. For vegan, use vegan butter and check hot sauce ingredients.

Nutrition

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