Craving a satisfying and flavorful dinner without the fuss? These Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are your answer for a quick and delicious meal. You’ll love how simple it is to achieve crispy, spicy perfection in your air fryer, making it a fantastic addition to your air fryer dinner recipes rotation.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cauliflower: Use fresh florets for the best texture. Frozen cauliflower can work, but you’ll need to pat it very dry after thawing.
- Buffalo Sauce: Choose your favorite brand of classic buffalo sauce.
- Garlic Powder: Essential for flavor.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds depth; regular paprika works too.
- Olive Oil: Or any neutral cooking oil like avocado oil.
- Cornstarch: Helps achieve extra crispiness. Arrowroot powder is a good substitute.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 120 calories
- Tools Needed: Air fryer, large mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cauliflower
Wash and thoroughly dry your cauliflower. Cut it into uniform, bite-sized florets. This ensures even cooking in your air fryer.
2. Coat the Cauliflower
In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Make sure every piece is lightly coated for maximum crispiness.
3. Air Fry the Cauliflower
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the coated cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
4. Cook Until Crispy
Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Cook until the cauliflower is tender-crisp and slightly browned. This is a crucial step for achieving perfect air fryer dinner recipes.
5. Toss with Buffalo Sauce
Once cooked, transfer the crispy cauliflower to a clean bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the top and toss gently until all florets are evenly coated. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious air fryer dinner recipes.
Variation Ideas:
- Ranch Drizzle: Drizzle with a dairy-free or regular ranch dressing for a cooling contrast.
- Sesame Ginger: Skip the buffalo sauce and toss with a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, and a touch of maple syrup after air frying.
- Lemon Herb: Toss with lemon zest, fresh herbs like parsley or dill, and a squeeze of lemon juice after cooking.
- Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix for more heat.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave for reheating, as it can make them soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I make these in the oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, you can. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and lightly browned, then toss with sauce.
What can I serve with Buffalo Cauliflower Bites?
They are great as an appetizer or a light meal. Serve them with a side salad, celery sticks, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Why is my cauliflower not getting crispy?
Ensure your cauliflower is very dry before coating, and do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cooking in a single layer allows for proper air circulation and crispiness.
Can I use a different type of hot sauce?
Absolutely! You can use any hot sauce you prefer, though classic buffalo sauce provides the distinct flavor.
Are these suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, if you use a buffalo sauce that does not contain dairy (many do not) and any plant-based dipping sauces.
How do I prevent the cauliflower from sticking to the air fryer?
Lightly spray your air fryer basket with cooking oil before adding the cauliflower. This also helps with crisping.