These air fryer cauliflower bites are crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with flavor. Perfect as a healthy snack, appetizer, or side dish for weeknights, parties, or game day. Learn how to make crispy cauliflower in the air fryer in just 15 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy (ready in 20 minutes)
- Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside
- Family-friendly and kid-approved
- Low-calorie, plant-based snack
- Perfect for customizing with sauces (Buffalo, BBQ, or garlic Parmesan)
Ingredients
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- Optional: 2–3 tbsp buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, or melted Parmesan
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C / 400°F for 3 minutes.
- Prepare cauliflower – Wash and cut into bite-sized florets.
- Season – Toss cauliflower with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
- Air fry – Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Add sauce (optional) – Toss cooked bites in Buffalo, BBQ, or Parmesan sauce. Serve immediately.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs or a spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Tips & Variations
- Extra crispy: Use panko breadcrumbs for coating
- Flavor options: Garlic Parmesan, Buffalo, BBQ, or lemon pepper
- Meal prep: Refrigerate cooked bites for up to 2 days; reheat in an air fryer
- Avoid: Overcrowding the basket for even crispiness
- Gluten-free: Use plain cauliflower without breadcrumbs or a GF coating
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a snack with ranch or blue cheese dip
- Pair with salads, wraps, or tacos
- Great as a vegetarian appetizer for parties
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions
Nutrition Facts
(Per serving – without sauce)
- Calories: 85
- Carbs: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 5g
Conclusion
These air fryer cauliflower bites are the ultimate healthy snack or appetizer, crispy, flavorful, and ready in minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, parties, or game day. Save, share, and make them your go-to crispy veggie snack.
FAQ
Can I freeze these cauliflower bites?
Yes, cook, cool, and freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.
How do I make them ahead of time?
Prep the cauliflower and seasoning in advance. Cook right before serving.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, but reduce air fryer time slightly and shake the basket more often.
Which sauces work best?
Buffalo, BBQ, garlic Parmesan, or ranch coating are all great.
Do I need to flip them?
Yes, shake or flip halfway for even crisping.