Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes, but do it smart. You can batter the cauliflower and store it in the fridge for up to 6 hours. Don’t sauce it until after the first air fry or you’ll lose all crispiness.

How do I store leftovers?

Cool them completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best texture, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes.

Can I freeze buffalo cauliflower?

Technically, yes. Freeze after the first air fry (before saucing) on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Re-air-fry straight from frozen, then toss in warm sauce. Not ideal — but works.

What’s the best buffalo sauce to use?

Totally personal. Frank’s RedHot is the classic, but some people love Trader Joe’s, Primal Kitchen (for clean ingredients), or a homemade vinegar-heavy version for sharper bite.

Is this actually healthy?

Compared to deep-fried wings or battered restaurant apps? Absolutely. It’s lower in fat, meat-free, and packs in fiber from the cauliflower. Just watch the sodium if you're using store-bought sauces.

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower: 5 Game-Changing Crispy Secrets

Description

Crispy, spicy, and a little messy — this air fryer buffalo cauliflower recipe hits all the right notes without the guilt. Perfect for game day or a fiery Monday night fix.

Ingredients

Scale

1 medium head of cauliflower, broken into medium florets
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or rice/chickpea flour for gluten-free)
1/2 cup water
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 to 3/4 cup buffalo sauce (Frank’s preferred)
1 tablespoon melted vegan butter (or regular butter)
Optional: breadcrumbs, ranch or blue cheese dip

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Instructions

Wash and thoroughly dry cauliflower, then cut into medium-sized florets.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, water, garlic powder, paprika, and salt until smooth.
Toss cauliflower in the batter until well coated; shake off excess before placing in the air fryer basket.
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange battered florets in a single layer and air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Mix buffalo sauce with melted butter. Toss hot cauliflower in this sauce after first fry.
Return sauced florets to air fryer and cook another 5–7 minutes until crisp.

Notes

Dry your cauliflower well, don’t overcrowd the air fryer, and always sauce after the first fry. For extra crunch, lightly roll in breadcrumbs before air frying.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup cooked
Calories: 110
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg