Get ready to transform your mealtime with these 20 crispy air fryer cauliflower recipes that are as delicious as they are easy to make! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something crunchy yet healthy, this roundup is your go-to guide for turning simple cauliflower into mouthwatering dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer enthusiast or just getting started, these recipes will inspire you to keep cooking and exploring.
Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Cauliflower
Deliciously crispy and bursting with flavor, this Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Cauliflower has become my go-to snack for those lazy Sunday afternoons. It’s the perfect blend of savory garlic and rich parmesan, with a crunch that’ll make you forget it’s actually good for you.
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil until evenly coated.
- Add minced garlic, parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and paprika to the bowl. Mix well to ensure all florets are seasoned.
- Place the seasoned cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring space between pieces for even cooking.
- Cook at 375°F for 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning.
- Check for doneness; the cauliflower should be golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Transfer to a serving dish and let cool for 2 minutes before serving.
Light and crispy with a melt-in-your-mouth parmesan crust, this cauliflower is a game-changer. Try serving it with a side of marinara for dipping, or toss it into salads for an extra crunch.
Spicy Buffalo Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites
Every time I’m craving something spicy and satisfying but want to keep it on the healthier side, these Spicy Buffalo Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites are my go-to. They’re perfect for game day, a snack, or even as a side dish, and the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, especially with the air fryer doing most of the work.
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup hot sauce
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure it’s hot and ready.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the hot sauce, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create the buffalo sauce mixture.
- Dip each cauliflower floret first into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with panko breadcrumbs. Tip: For extra crispiness, double coat the florets by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Place the coated cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they’re not touching to allow for even cooking. You may need to cook in batches.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, then flip the florets and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy. Tip: Check the florets at the 5-minute mark to prevent burning, as air fryer temperatures can vary.
- Once cooked, toss the cauliflower bites in the prepared buffalo sauce until evenly coated. Tip: For a saucier bite, reserve some sauce to drizzle over the top after plating.
Now, these Spicy Buffalo Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites are not just about the heat; they offer a delightful crunch on the outside while staying tender on the inside. Serve them with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the spice, or pile them high on a platter for your next gathering—they’re sure to disappear fast!
Lemon Herb Air Fryer Cauliflower Steaks
Just last week, I was rummaging through my fridge, looking for something quick yet satisfying to whip up, and that’s when I spotted a head of cauliflower. It sparked an idea—why not try making cauliflower steaks in the air fryer? The result was these Lemon Herb Air Fryer Cauliflower Steaks, a dish that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that’ll make you forget you’re eating veggies.
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
- Cut the cauliflower into 1-inch thick steaks, ensuring you keep the stem intact for stability.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Brush both sides of each cauliflower steak generously with the lemon herb mixture.
- Place the steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Air fry for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are crispy and golden.
- Tip: For extra crispiness, spray the steaks lightly with cooking spray before air frying.
- Tip: If your air fryer is small, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Tip: Let the steaks rest for 2 minutes after cooking to enhance the flavors.
Zesty and herbaceous, these cauliflower steaks have a delightful crunch on the outside while remaining tender inside. Serve them atop a bed of quinoa or alongside a creamy tahini sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Tacos with Avocado Lime Sauce
Over the weekend, I found myself staring at a head of cauliflower, wondering how to turn it into something extraordinary. That’s when the idea of Air Fryer Cauliflower Tacos with Avocado Lime Sauce was born—a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Trust me, even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 avocado
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and salt until evenly coated.
- Place the cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the cauliflower is crispy and golden.
- While the cauliflower cooks, mash the avocado in a small bowl and stir in the lime juice, cilantro, and red onion to make the sauce.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
- Assemble the tacos by placing a spoonful of cauliflower on each tortilla and topping with the avocado lime sauce.
The crispy cauliflower paired with the creamy avocado lime sauce creates a texture and flavor combo that’s hard to beat. Try serving these tacos with a side of black beans and rice for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Curry Spiced Air Fryer Cauliflower
Craving something spicy yet healthy? I stumbled upon this Curry Spiced Air Fryer Cauliflower recipe during one of those lazy Sunday afternoons when I wanted to snack without the guilt. It’s become my go-to for a quick, flavorful side that even my picky eater friends can’t resist.
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking right from the start.
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil until evenly coated. Tip: Cutting florets to similar sizes ensures they cook uniformly.
- Sprinkle the curry powder, garlic powder, and salt over the cauliflower. Mix well to ensure each piece is seasoned. Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Place the cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Tip: Shaking helps achieve that perfect golden crisp on all sides.
- Check for doneness by piercing a floret with a fork; it should be tender. If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Lightly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this cauliflower packs a punch of flavor. Serve it as a standalone snack or alongside your favorite dip for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Fried Rice
Every time I think about making a quick, healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, my air fryer cauliflower fried rice is the first thing that comes to mind. It’s a game-changer for busy weeknights or when I’m craving something light yet satisfying. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those veggies without feeling like you’re missing out.
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, riced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ginger powder
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 370°F for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, toss the riced cauliflower with olive oil, garlic powder, and ginger powder until evenly coated.
- Spread the cauliflower mixture in the air fryer basket in an even layer. Air fry for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Add the frozen peas and carrots to the air fryer basket with the cauliflower. Air fry for another 5 minutes.
- Push the cauliflower and vegetable mixture to one side of the basket. Pour the beaten eggs into the other side. Air fry for 2 minutes, then stir to scramble the eggs and mix everything together.
- Drizzle soy sauce over the mixture and stir to combine. Air fry for an additional 2 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Unbelievably, this dish comes together with a perfect balance of textures—crispy edges from the air fryer, tender veggies, and fluffy eggs. Serve it straight from the basket for a fun, communal meal or plate it up with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra crunch.
Cheesy Air Fryer Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
Zesty flavors and comfort food come together in this twist on a classic that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. I stumbled upon this recipe one lazy Sunday when my craving for mac and cheese met my commitment to eating more veggies—talk about a happy accident!
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, place the cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and slightly golden.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour until smooth to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Combine the cooked macaroni and cauliflower in a large bowl. Pour the cheese sauce over and gently stir to coat evenly.
- Transfer the mixture back to the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for 5 minutes to crisp the top slightly.
Creamy, cheesy, and with just the right amount of crunch from the air fryer, this dish is a game-changer. Serve it straight from the air fryer basket for a fun, shareable meal or plate it up with a side of steamed greens for a balanced dinner.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Nuggets with Honey Mustard Dip
Kicking off our recipe roundup, I stumbled upon this gem during a lazy Sunday experiment that turned into a household favorite. There’s something about the crunch of these nuggets paired with the tangy sweetness of the dip that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the beaten eggs, then coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, then flip the florets and cook for another 5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- While the nuggets cook, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise in a small bowl for the dip.
- Serve the hot cauliflower nuggets immediately with the honey mustard dip on the side.
The nuggets come out with a satisfying crunch outside, tender inside, and the dip adds a perfect balance of flavors. Try serving them over a bed of greens for a light meal or as a party appetizer that’ll disappear in minutes.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Pizza Crust
Guess what? I’ve been on a mission to make pizza night both healthier and hassle-free, and I think I’ve cracked the code with this Air Fryer Cauliflower Pizza Crust. It’s a game-changer for those of us trying to sneak in more veggies without sacrificing the joy of a crispy, cheesy slice.
Ingredients
- 2 cups riced cauliflower
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the riced cauliflower, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt until well mixed. Tip: Squeeze out excess moisture from the cauliflower using a clean kitchen towel for a crispier crust.
- Shape the mixture into a round pizza crust on a piece of parchment paper, about 1/4 inch thick. Tip: Make sure the crust is evenly thick to avoid uneven cooking.
- Carefully transfer the parchment paper with the crust into the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the crust using a spatula and cook for another 5 minutes until golden and crispy. Tip: Check the crust halfway through to prevent burning.
- Remove the crust from the air fryer and add your favorite toppings.
- Return the pizza to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, just until the toppings are heated through and the cheese is melted.
Unbelievably, this crust holds up like a dream under all your favorite toppings, offering a perfect balance of crispiness and flavor. Try serving it with a side of marinara for dipping, or get creative with a pesto base for a fresh twist.
Rosemary Garlic Air Fryer Cauliflower
This morning, as I was sipping my coffee and scrolling through my phone, I stumbled upon a recipe that made me drop everything and head straight to the kitchen. There’s something about the combination of rosemary and garlic that feels like a warm hug, and when paired with the crispiness of air-fried cauliflower, it’s nothing short of magical.
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Place the coated cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap for even cooking.
- Air fry at 375°F for 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning.
- Check for doneness by piercing a floret with a fork; it should be tender but still have a slight crunch.
- Transfer the cooked cauliflower to a serving dish and let it rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Key to this dish’s appeal is the contrast between the crispy edges and the tender inside of each floret, with the rosemary and garlic adding a fragrant depth. Serve it as a side dish, or get creative by tossing it into a grain bowl for a hearty, flavorful meal.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings with BBQ Sauce
Craving something crispy, healthy, and utterly delicious? I stumbled upon making these Air Fryer Cauliflower Wings with BBQ Sauce one lazy Sunday when I wanted to indulge without the guilt. They’ve since become my go-to snack for game nights and lazy afternoons alike.
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, letting excess drip off, and place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Lightly spray the florets with olive oil to help them crisp up.
- Air fry at 375°F for 10 minutes, then flip the florets and cook for another 10 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Transfer the cooked cauliflower to a bowl, add the BBQ sauce, and toss until evenly coated.
- Return the sauced cauliflower to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2 minutes to set the sauce.
Unbelievably crispy on the outside yet tender on the inside, these cauliflower wings are a game-changer. Serve them with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for an extra kick, or pile them high on a platter for your next party—they’re sure to disappear fast!
Air Fryer Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry
Diving into the world of air fryer recipes has been a game-changer for my weeknight dinners, and this Air Fryer Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry is no exception. It’s a dish that brings together the warmth of spices and the convenience of modern cooking, perfect for those evenings when time is tight but flavor is a must.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets and chickpeas with olive oil, curry powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated. Tip: For extra flavor, let the mixture sit for 10 minutes before cooking.
- Transfer the coated cauliflower and chickpeas to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 375°F for 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Tip: Avoid overcrowding the basket to achieve a crispy texture.
- After cooking, drizzle the coconut milk over the cauliflower and chickpeas, then toss gently to combine. Tip: The coconut milk adds a creamy texture and balances the spices beautifully.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Kick back and enjoy the crispy edges of the cauliflower against the creamy, spiced chickpeas. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of fluffy rice or can stand alone as a hearty, flavorful meal.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Fritters with Tzatziki
My kitchen adventures often lead me to discover the magic of transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. That’s exactly what happened with these Air Fryer Cauliflower Fritters with Tzatziki—a dish that’s become a staple in my home for its perfect balance of crunch and creaminess.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated cucumber
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dill
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup cauliflower florets, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter. Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking.
- Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- While the fritters cook, prepare the tzatziki by mixing 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup grated cucumber, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tsp dill in a small bowl. Tip: Squeeze the grated cucumber to remove excess water for a thicker sauce.
- Serve the fritters hot with the tzatziki sauce on the side. Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the fritter mixture.
Unbelievably crispy on the outside yet tender inside, these fritters paired with the cool tzatziki make for a delightful contrast. Try serving them on a bed of mixed greens for a light lunch or as an appetizer at your next gathering.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Hash Browns
Finally, a healthier twist on a breakfast classic that doesn’t skimp on flavor or crunch. I stumbled upon this recipe during my quest to make my morning routine both nutritious and indulgent, and let me tell you, these Air Fryer Cauliflower Hash Browns are a game-changer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups riced cauliflower
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the riced cauliflower, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
- Form the mixture into small patties, about 1/4 inch thick. Tip: If the mixture is too wet, let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the cauliflower to absorb the moisture.
- Brush both sides of each patty lightly with olive oil.
- Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip and cook for another 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Tip: For extra crispiness, spray the patties lightly with cooking spray before flipping.
- Remove from the air fryer and let cool for 2 minutes before serving. Tip: They firm up as they cool, making them easier to handle.
Kickstart your morning with these crispy, golden delights that offer a perfect balance of savory flavors and a satisfying crunch. Serve them alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sunny-side-up egg for a complete breakfast that’s both wholesome and delicious.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Soup with Crispy Toppings
How many times have I reached for the air fryer to whip up something quick and ended up with a dish that’s both comforting and surprisingly healthy? This Air Fryer Cauliflower Soup with Crispy Toppings is my latest obsession, blending the creamy texture of cauliflower with the irresistible crunch of air-fried toppings. It’s a game-changer for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry the cauliflower for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the florets are golden and tender.
- Transfer half of the roasted cauliflower to a blender, add vegetable broth, and blend until smooth. Tip: For a chunkier soup, blend less.
- Pour the blended mixture into a pot over medium heat, stir in the heavy cream and remaining roasted cauliflower. Heat through for 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix the shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Tip: For extra crispiness, press the topping mixture lightly.
- Sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb mixture over the soup in oven-safe bowls. Broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes until the topping is crispy and golden. Tip: Watch closely to prevent burning.
But the real magic happens when you dive into the creamy soup with that crispy, cheesy topping. The contrast in textures is unreal, and the flavors are so rich and comforting. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping, and you’ve got a meal that feels indulgent yet is packed with veggies.
Air Fryer Cauliflower and Broccoli Gratin
Zesty flavors and a love for quick, healthy meals led me to create this Air Fryer Cauliflower and Broccoli Gratin. It’s a dish that combines the convenience of air frying with the comforting richness of a gratin, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower and broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the coated florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap for even cooking.
- Air fry the vegetables at 375°F for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning.
- While the vegetables cook, mix the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and cheddar cheese in a small bowl.
- After the initial 10 minutes, pour the cheese mixture over the vegetables in the air fryer basket.
- Continue to air fry at 375°F for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Let the gratin sit for 2 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Unbelievably creamy with a slight crunch from the perfectly cooked vegetables, this gratin is a testament to how easy and satisfying air fryer meals can be. Serve it as a side or add some grilled chicken to make it a hearty main dish.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Stuffed Peppers
Today, I stumbled upon a dish that’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a testament to how versatile cauliflower can be. Air Fryer Cauliflower Stuffed Peppers have become my go-to for a quick, nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cauliflower rice
- 4 large bell peppers
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 370°F for 5 minutes.
- While the air fryer heats, cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a bowl, mix the cauliflower rice, diced onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the cauliflower mixture, then drizzle with olive oil.
- Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not touching.
- Air fry at 370°F for 12 minutes, then sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Continue air frying for another 3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
My favorite part about these stuffed peppers is the contrast between the crispy edges of the pepper and the tender, flavorful cauliflower filling. Serve them with a side of sour cream or avocado for an extra layer of richness.
Air Fryer Cauliflower and Quinoa Salad
This summer, I’ve been obsessed with finding the perfect balance between healthy and hearty, and this Air Fryer Cauliflower and Quinoa Salad hits all the right notes. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for those who think salads are just leafy greens.
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
- Place the cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the florets are golden and crispy.
- While the cauliflower cooks, bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the quinoa with a fork and transfer to a large bowl. Add the cooked cauliflower, remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Toss gently to combine.
- For an extra flavor boost, let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Fresh out of the air fryer, the cauliflower adds a delightful crunch to the fluffy quinoa, while the lemon juice brings a bright, tangy contrast. Serve it warm as a standalone meal or chill it for a refreshing side dish at your next barbecue.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Dumplings with Soy Ginger Glaze
After countless experiments with my air fryer, I stumbled upon a recipe that’s become a weeknight favorite in my household. Air Fryer Cauliflower Dumplings with Soy Ginger Glaze is a game-changer for anyone looking to add a healthy twist to their comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cauliflower, finely grated
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup cauliflower, 1 cup all-purpose flour, and 1/2 cup water to form a dough. Tip: The dough should be sticky but manageable. If too wet, add a bit more flour.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll each into a ball.
- Place the dumplings in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Tip: Spray the basket with a light coat of oil to prevent sticking.
- While the dumplings cook, mix 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp ginger, 1 tbsp honey, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder in a small saucepan over low heat for 2 minutes to create the glaze.
- Remove the dumplings from the air fryer and drizzle with the soy ginger glaze. Tip: For extra flavor, sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
- Season with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper, then toss with 1 tbsp sesame oil.
Unbelievably crispy on the outside yet tender inside, these dumplings pack a punch with the sweet and savory glaze. Serve them atop a bed of steamed greens for a complete meal that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Air Fryer Cauliflower and Sweet Potato Mash
Believe it or not, I stumbled upon this Air Fryer Cauliflower and Sweet Potato Mash recipe on a lazy Sunday when I was craving something comforting yet healthy. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, especially when I need a quick side dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup peeled and cubed sweet potato
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets and sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly coated.
- Place the coated cauliflower and sweet potato in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 400°F for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Transfer the cooked cauliflower and sweet potato to a large bowl. Add butter and milk, then mash until you reach your desired consistency. For a smoother mash, use a hand mixer.
- Serve warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or as a standalone comfort food.
Zesty and creamy, this mash is a game-changer for anyone looking to add more veggies to their diet without sacrificing flavor. The air fryer gives the cauliflower and sweet potato a slight crispiness before mashing, adding an unexpected texture that’s absolutely delightful.
Summary
Simply put, this roundup is your golden ticket to transforming cauliflower into crispy, irresistible delights with minimal fuss. Whether you’re craving a snack, side, or main, these 20 air fryer recipes promise to deliver. We’d love to hear which ones become your kitchen staples—drop a comment below! And if you found this collection helpful, why not spread the love? Share it on Pinterest for fellow foodies to discover. Happy cooking!