Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower

Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower with Homemade Blue Cheese Dressing

Craving a spicy, flavorful snack that’s also a healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings? Look no further than this Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower! These crispy cauliflower bites are coated in a tangy buffalo sauce and cooked to perfection in the air fryer. Paired with a rich and creamy homemade blue cheese dressing, they make for the perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower:

• 1 head of cauliflower (about 1 1/2 lb.)
• 3 Tbsp. Frank’s RedHot Sauce
• 2 Tbsp. butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 Tbsp. cornstarch

For the Blue Cheese Dressing:

• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (2 oz.)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 3 Tbsp. buttermilk
• 2 Tbsp. mayonnaise
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower

1. Break the cauliflower into equal-sized florets. Aim for bite-sized pieces that will cook evenly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Frank’s RedHot Sauce, melted butter, kosher salt, and garlic powder.
3. Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until they are well-coated with the buffalo sauce mixture.
4. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the cauliflower and toss again until the florets are evenly coated. This will help them become extra crispy in the air fryer.

2. Air Fry the Cauliflower

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Using tongs, arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy. Work in batches if necessary.
3. Cook for 15 minutes, tossing the cauliflower halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
4. The cauliflower should be golden and browned in spots when done.

3. Make the Blue Cheese Dressing

1. While the cauliflower is cooking, prepare the blue cheese dressing.
2. In a small bowl, combine the crumbled blue cheese, sour cream, buttermilk, and mayonnaise.
3. Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more buttermilk if you prefer a thinner dressing.
4. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

4. Serve

1. Once the cauliflower is crispy and golden, remove it from the air fryer and transfer it to a serving plate.
2. Serve immediately with the homemade blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 160 kcal per serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Option: By air frying instead of deep frying, you get all the crispiness without the extra oil and calories.
• Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute snack or appetizer.
• Flavor-Packed: The tangy buffalo sauce pairs perfectly with the cool, creamy blue cheese dressing, offering a balance of spicy and savory flavors.

Tips for Success

• Equal-Sized Florets: Cutting the cauliflower into uniform pieces ensures even cooking and a consistent texture.
• Air Fryer Space: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Air circulation is key to achieving that crispy exterior.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the blue cheese dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower is a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it at a party, game day, or as a fun snack. The spicy buffalo sauce combined with the creamy, tangy blue cheese dressing makes every bite irresistible. Try this easy recipe, and enjoy a lighter twist on classic buffalo wings!

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