Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
So, last Friday night as we were watching movies, Alex blurted out, "Can we have something spicy and crispy like Buffalo wings but not the wings?" I chuckled because as a Manhattan mom, I always have a trick up my sleeve. Enter Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower — the irresistible snack that satisfies those spicy cravings without the guilt. This recipe is perfect for when we want something quick but still finger-licking good. Once you've tried this, Alex might not be the only one begging for more! For more veggie goodness, see our Pineapple Green Smoothie.
Jump to:
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 20 minutes!
- Kid-approved: Even my picky eater, Sarah, can't resist.
- Healthier alternative: All the flavor, none of the deep-frying.
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower
- 8 tablespoons buffalo sauce
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Extra buffalo sauce for serving
- Dip of your choice
Step-by-step instructions
- Cut cauliflower into florets, wash, drain in a colander, and pat them dry.
- Preheat your Air Fryer to 400 degrees.
- In a large bowl, combine the buffalo sauce and melted butter. Add the cauliflower florets.
- Sprinkle with cornstarch, tossing to coat evenly.
- Arrange florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.
- Air fry at 350 degrees for 8 minutes, flip, then cook for 7 more minutes until they're crispy.
- Serve immediately with extra buffalo sauce and your favorite dip. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Recipe tips & variations
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Dip variety: Try ranch for a creamy contrast or blue cheese for a classic twist.
- Meal prep magic: Cut the cauliflower ahead of time and store in the fridge to save time.
Storage & reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, pop them back into the Air Fryer at 350 degrees for 5-6 minutes to regain their crispiness.

FAQs
How do you keep Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower crispy instead of soggy?
Make sure to dry the cauliflower well before cooking and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Can you make Buffalo Cauliflower ahead of time and reheat it later?
Absolutely! Reheat in the air fryer to bring back the crunch.
How long should cauliflower cook in the air fryer to get the best texture?
Cooking for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway, usually gives the perfect texture.
Can you use regular hot sauce instead of buffalo sauce for this recipe?
Yes, regular hot sauce works too, though you might want to adjust the butter ratio for balance.
Recipes you may like
- Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies
- Creamy Mango Banana Smoothie for a Fresh Morning Boost
- Pineapple Green Smoothie
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Quick and easy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe, a healthier alternative to Buffalo wings.
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower
- 8 tablespoons buffalo sauce
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Extra buffalo sauce for serving
- Dip of your choice
Instructions
- Cut cauliflower into florets, wash, drain in a colander, and pat them dry.
- Preheat your Air Fryer to 400 degrees.
- In a large bowl, combine the buffalo sauce and melted butter. Add the cauliflower florets.
- Sprinkle with cornstarch, tossing to coat evenly.
- Arrange florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.
- Air fry at 350 degrees for 8 minutes, flip, then cook for 7 more minutes until they're crispy.
- Serve immediately with extra buffalo sauce and your favorite dip. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Dip variety: Try ranch for a creamy contrast or blue cheese for a classic twist.
- Meal prep magic: Cut the cauliflower ahead of time and store in the fridge to save time.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, pop them back into the Air Fryer at 350 degrees for 5-6 minutes to regain their crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg





