Name: Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites with Buffalo Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cauliflower bites deliver the ultimate flavor and crunch without deep frying or heavy batter. They’re easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and ideal for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to eat more veggies without sacrificing taste. Great for parties, game day, or a spicy snack, these bites are addictive and versatile.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cauliflower (cut into bite-sized florets)
All-purpose flour
Cornstarch
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Non-dairy or regular milk
Panko breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
Buffalo sauce
Olive oil spray or cooking spray

Directions

Prepare the cauliflower: Wash and dry the cauliflower, then cut it into evenly sized florets.
Make the batter: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and milk until smooth.
Coat the cauliflower: Dip each floret into the batter, letting the excess drip off. Optionally roll in panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes.
Air fry the cauliflower: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Place the battered florets in a single layer without overcrowding. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Toss in buffalo sauce: Once crispy, transfer the cauliflower to a large bowl. Drizzle with buffalo sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Serve: Serve hot with a side of ranch or blue cheese dip and celery sticks, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free breadcrumbs.
No breadcrumbs: Skip the panko for a lighter coating, or use almond flour for a low-carb version.
BBQ version: Substitute buffalo sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
Sweet and spicy: Mix buffalo sauce with a bit of maple syrup or honey for a balanced heat.
Extra crispy: Double-air fry—first without sauce, then again for a few minutes after tossing in sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, place in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until re-crisped.
Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bites soggy. Reapply buffalo sauce after reheating, if desired.

FAQs

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Are these cauliflower bites vegan?

Yes, if you use plant-based milk and vegan-friendly buffalo sauce, the recipe is fully vegan.

Do I need to use breadcrumbs?

No, but they help make the exterior extra crispy. You can skip them for a softer texture or use crushed cereal for a unique crunch.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Fresh cauliflower is best for texture, but you can use thawed frozen florets—just pat them dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture.

What’s the best buffalo sauce to use?

Use any store-bought buffalo sauce you like, or make your own with hot sauce, melted butter (or vegan butter), and a dash of vinegar.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep and batter the cauliflower in advance, but for best results, air fry and toss in sauce just before serving.

How do I prevent the cauliflower from getting soggy?

Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket and allow steam to escape. Adding breadcrumbs also helps create a crisp barrier.

Is this recipe spicy?

Buffalo sauce has a noticeable heat, but you can adjust the spice level by choosing a milder sauce or mixing it with a bit of honey or yogurt.

What can I serve with cauliflower bites?

They’re great with ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, or over salad bowls and wraps.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer, which can affect crispiness.

Conclusion

Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites with Buffalo Sauce are a flavorful, healthy alternative to traditional wings, offering all the kick and crunch with none of the meat. Whether you’re hosting game day, meal prepping snacks, or just craving something spicy and crispy, this easy and customizable recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.