Crispy, spicy, and surprisingly satisfying—this bold Air-Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower might just outshine your favorite game-day wings.
Cauliflower takes on a whole new personality in the air fryer. I once served these Buffalo bites to my husband and his buddies on game day, right alongside a platter of classic wings. I didn’t say a word—just set them out with the dips and let everyone dig in. By halftime, the cauliflower tray was wiped clean, and someone actually asked, “Wait… those weren’t chicken?” Safe to say, this recipe earned a permanent spot in the game-day lineup.
If you’re craving something crunchy, spicy, and snackable that still packs a vegetable-forward punch, this air-fryer Buffalo cauliflower is your new MVP. Think of it as a plant-based twist on classic buffalo wings, minus the meat and deep-frying mess. You still get all the crave-worthy flavor and satisfying texture, with a lighter feel that won’t weigh you down.
And while this recipe might seem like a special occasion treat, it’s incredibly easy to pull off with pantry staples and just a few fresh ingredients. Tossed in buttery Buffalo sauce and lightly dredged in panko, each piece crisps up beautifully in the air fryer. You can even customize the heat level or dip them in your favorite sauce—ranch, blue cheese, or none at all.
Is Air-Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Healthy?
Buffalo cauliflower strikes a tasty balance between indulgence and nutrition. Cauliflower itself is rich in fiber and antioxidants and low in calories and carbs—making it a smart base for anyone eating more plants or cutting back on refined grains. Swapping fried chicken wings for air-fried veggies also drastically reduces the amount of oil and saturated fat.
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs (though regular panko gets a touch crispier). Vegan? No problem—sub in plant-based butter and you’re good to go. While this dish isn’t as healthy as a plate of steamed cauliflower, it is a fun, crunchy way to sneak in more veggies—and maybe even convert a picky eater in the process.
Cauliflower: The Culinary Chameleon
When it comes to adding more veggies to your diet, cauliflower really is king. Its beauty lies in its versatility. Cauliflower can not only be transformed into wing-like bites, but you can also slice it to make delicious cauliflower steaks or even bake it whole and serve it as a plant-based entrée. Of course, we also know how it does a great job at replacing rice and even mashed potatoes! And what about a cauliflower-based pizza crust? Or cauliflower wraps? There isn’t much this vegetable can’t do!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Buffalo cauliflower is best enjoyed hot and crispy right out of the air fryer. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes to restore some of that crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your buffalo cauliflower hot out of the fryer with a side of Homemade Ranch Dressing or Blue Cheese Dip, celery sticks, and extra Buffalo sauce for dipping. Want to build out your spread? Try pairing with Potato Buns for sliders, Oven-Baked Mozzarella Sticks, or Healthy Nachos for an easy crowd-pleaser. For more cauliflower fun, don’t miss these Cauliflower Tater Tots or Buffalo Cauliflower Dip.
Recipe
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 3 cups cauliflower cut into 1 1/2-inch-thick florets
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter vegan if needed
- 5 tablespoons Buffalo sauce divided
- Sea salt
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs gluten-free if needed
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Place the cauliflower in a large bowl. Melt 1/2 tablespoon of the butter and mix it with 3 tablespoons of the Buffalo sauce. Pour over the cauliflower and stir until well covered (I use my hands as it's easier.) Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.
- Once the cauliflower is marinated, melt the remaining 1/2 tablespoon butter and mix with the remaining 3 tablespoons Buffalo sauce. Pour over the cauliflower and stir until coated. Season with salt.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 10 minutes. Spread the panko onto a shallow, rimmed plate. Pick each cauliflower up by the steam and roll the tops of each floret in the panko. Place onto the mesh basket of the air fryer. Repeat with the remaining florets.
- Spray the tops of the florets with cooking spray and cook until the cauliflower is fork-tender and the tops are crisp and golden, about 17-21 minutes.
- Serve with ranch or blue cheese dip (or nothing!) and DEVOUR.
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