Are you looking for creative ways to get your daily dose of veggies without sacrificing flavor? Look no further! Cauliflower, in particular, is a game-changer when it comes to healthy eating. Not only is it packed with vitamins and antioxidants, but it’s also incredibly versatile – and that’s where the air fryer comes in.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering air fryer cauliflower recipes that will make you wonder how you ever lived without this kitchen gadget! From savory to sweet, spicy to tangy, we’ve got a recipe for every taste bud. So whether you’re a seasoned air fryer pro or just starting out, get ready to elevate your meal game with these crispy and delicious cauliflower creations.
Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Cauliflower
Transform cauliflower into a flavorful and crispy side dish with this simple recipe that combines the savory goodness of garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cauliflower florets with minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the cauliflower mixture and toss again to combine.
4. Load the cauliflower mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Check for crispiness and cook additional 2-3 minutes if needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites
Spicy Buffalo Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites Recipe
Get ready to devour these addictive cauliflower bites smothered in a spicy buffalo sauce!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper until evenly coated.
3. Cook cauliflower in batches if necessary, for 5-7 minutes or until tender and slightly browned.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together buffalo wing sauce and blue cheese crumbles (if using).
5. Toss cooked cauliflower with the buffalo-blue cheese mixture until well coated.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Herb Air Fryer Cauliflower Steaks
Elevate your air frying game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the brightness of lemon and herbs. Perfect as a side dish or added to a bed of greens for a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into 1-inch thick steaks.
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the lemon juice and stir.
4. Add the cauliflower steaks to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Load the marinated cauliflower into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Air Fryer Cauliflower Tacos with Avocado Lime Sauce
Elevate your taco game with this crispy and flavorful cauliflower recipe, paired with a refreshing avocado lime sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 corn tortillas
– Avocado Lime Sauce (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cauliflower with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Load the cauliflower into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with cooked cauliflower, Avocado Lime Sauce, and desired toppings.
Avocado Lime Sauce:
– 3 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Use immediately or store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (air fryer), 5 minutes (tortilla warming)
Curry Spiced Air Fryer Cauliflower
Transform cauliflower into a flavorful and aromatic dish with this easy-to-make recipe. By combining the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the warm spices of curry, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp turmeric (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, cumin, curry powder, salt, black pepper, and turmeric (if using) until evenly coated.
3. Load the cauliflower mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until cauliflower is tender and caramelized, shaking the basket halfway through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Cauliflower Fried Rice
This recipe transforms cauliflower into a tasty and nutritious substitute for traditional fried rice, with the added convenience of cooking it all in an air fryer. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this cauliflower “rice” is a game-changer for low-carb diets and health-conscious eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets.
3. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In the air fryer basket, combine the processed cauliflower, vegetable oil, onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender and lightly browned.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Air Fryer Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, cheesy twist on classic macaroni and cheese. This recipe combines the perfect blend of tender cauliflower, al dente pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower with 2 tbsp butter, salt, and pepper. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. In a medium saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, cauliflower, and cheese sauce. Toss until well coated.
7. Air fry the mac and cheese for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Air Fryer Cauliflower Nuggets with Honey Mustard Dip
A healthier twist on traditional chicken nuggets, these air-fried cauliflower bites are a tasty and easy snack or meal option. Serve with a tangy honey mustard dip for an added layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Honey mustard dip (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
2. Rinse cauliflower florets and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each cauliflower piece into beaten egg and then coat in breadcrumb mixture.
5. Place coated cauliflower in single layer in air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Honey Mustard Dip:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Pizza Crust
Transform your pizza game with this game-changing cauliflower crust recipe made entirely in the air fryer! This gluten-free and low-carb alternative is a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a bowl, mix the cauliflower “rice” with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt.
5. Spread the mixture into the air fryer basket in an even layer.
6. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Remove from the air fryer and sprinkle Parmesan cheese (if using).
8. Let cool slightly before topping and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Air Fryer Cauliflower
Rosemary Garlic Air Fryer Cauliflower Recipe
Summary: Elevate your cauliflower game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, featuring the perfect balance of rosemary and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cauliflower florets with garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Load the cauliflower mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Check for desired crispiness and cook for an additional minute if needed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings with BBQ Sauce
Crunchy, flavorful cauliflower wings without the mess of deep-frying? We’ve got you covered! This recipe transforms humble cauliflower into a mouth-watering snack that’s perfect for game day or a quick weeknight treat.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings with BBQ Sauce
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Break it into florets.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
3. In a bowl, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Load the cauliflower mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Once cooked, remove the cauliflower from the air fryer and brush with BBQ sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry
Discover a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional curry with this easy-to-make Air Fryer Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of cauliflower, the creamy texture of chickpeas, and the aromatic spices of Indian cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower with 1 tablespoon olive oil, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
3. Air fry cauliflower for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. Meanwhile, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in garlic, chickpeas, coconut milk, and cooked cauliflower.
6. Simmer the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Air Fryer Cauliflower Fritters with Tzatziki
Transform cauliflower into a crispy and addictive snack with this simple air fryer recipe. Serve with a cooling tzatziki sauce for the perfect combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Tzatziki sauce (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cauliflower florets and toss until well coated with the dry mixture.
4. Beat egg lightly and add it to the bowl. Toss until cauliflower is evenly coated.
5. Load air fryer basket with cauliflower fritters in batches if necessary. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve hot with tzatziki sauce (recipe below).
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Hash Browns
Air Fryer Cauliflower Hash Browns: A Delicious Low-Carb Twist on Classic Potato Hash Browns!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into small florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower florets and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well coated.
4. Load the cauliflower mixture into the Air Fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the cauliflower during the last minute of cooking.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Cauliflower Soup with Crispy Toppings
Transform cauliflower into a creamy and comforting soup, topped with crispy goodness, all made possible with the help of your air fryer. This recipe is a game-changer for cauliflower lovers!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crispy topping ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
+ 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
+ 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. In the air fryer basket, combine cauliflower “rice,” onion, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
4. Add broth, cream, salt, and pepper to the cooked cauliflower mixture. Blend until smooth.
5. Prepare crispy toppings by mixing breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to combine.
6. Serve soup hot, topped with crispy breadcrumb mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Air Fryer Cauliflower and Broccoli Gratin
Elevate your meal with this creamy, cheesy gratin made easy by the Air Fryer. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower and broccoli with a rich, buttery sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups of broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower and broccoli with butter, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Load the Air Fryer basket with the vegetable mixture and cook for 10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. In a separate bowl, mix heavy cream and grated cheese until smooth.
5. Remove the Air Fryer basket from the oven and pour the cream-cheese mixture evenly over the vegetables.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and slightly golden brown.
7. Serve hot, garnished with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Air Fryer Cauliflower Stuffed Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious meal with this easy Air Fryer recipe.
Ingredients:
• 4 large bell peppers, any color
• 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place them in a single layer in the Air Fryer basket.
3. In a bowl, mix cauliflower florets with garlic, mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the cauliflower mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and close the Air Fryer lid.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through. Check for tenderness; adjust cooking time if needed.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Air Fryer Cauliflower and Quinoa Salad
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the subtle sweetness of roasted cauliflower, all wrapped up in a refreshing salad. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
3. Cook cauliflower in the Air Fryer for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
5. Combine cooked quinoa and roasted cauliflower in a bowl.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Air Fryer Cauliflower Dumplings with Soy Ginger Glaze
Transform cauliflower into crispy dumplings infused with savory soy and zesty ginger flavors, all in the comfort of your air fryer. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional Asian-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head and separate into florets.
3. In a bowl, mix together cornstarch, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic powder, and sesame oil.
4. Add the cauliflower florets to the mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Load the coated cauliflower into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until tender and crispy.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and grated ginger (soy ginger glaze).
8. Brush the glaze over the cooked dumplings during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Cauliflower and Sweet Potato Mash
Transform your favorite comfort food into a healthier, flavorful dish with this simple recipe. Air-fried cauliflower and sweet potatoes come together to create a creamy, delicious mash.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the cauliflower into florets and sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a single layer, place the cauliflower and sweet potatoes in the air fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional seasonings.
4. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Remove from the air fryer and mash together using a fork or potato masher. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your snack game with these 20 crispy air fryer cauliflower recipes! From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and pizza crust, to international inspirations like curry-spiced and tzatziki-topped, there’s something for everyone. Try garlic parmesan bites, spicy buffalo “wings”, or lemon herb steaks for a flavorful twist. And don’t forget sweet treats like cauliflower fritters with honey mustard dip! Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a healthy snack, these air fryer cauliflower recipes have got you covered.
