Crispy Air Fryer Breaded Cauliflower Recipe
Crispy air fryer breaded cauliflower is the perfect way to enjoy the taste and crunch of deep-fried cauliflower without all the unhealthy fats and calories. Dipped in a buttermilk egg wash and coated in seasoned Panko breadcrumbs, the cauliflower florets come out flavorful, with caramelized edges and crispy heads. This easy air-fried cauliflower recipe is packed with flavor and makes a great snack or side dish. Serve it with your favorite dips, like ranch or spicy aioli, for a quick, delicious, and healthier alternative to fried foods!
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower cut into bite-sized florets
- 1/2 cup buttermilk or cream For the egg wash. Buttermilk is optional, but I love using it because it tenderizes the cauliflower, giving it a melt-in-your-mouth texture while keeping the outside crispy. If you don’t have buttermilk, substitute with regular milk and a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar, or use unsweetened almond milk with lemon juice for a dairy-free option.
- 2 large eggs Whisked with buttermilk.
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs or breadcrumbs of choice. For the crispy coating.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Optional, for extra flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder For seasoning.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika Adds a smoky flavor.
- 1/2 tsp Salt & Pepper To taste.
- Cooking spray To help the coating crisp up in the air fryer.
Instructions
- Prep the Cauliflower: Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Pat dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- Make the Buttermilk Egg Wash: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until well combined.
- Prepare the Breading Mixture: In another bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste!
- Coat the Cauliflower: Dip each cauliflower floret into the buttermilk egg wash, letting any excess drip off. Then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the breaded cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
- Air Fry Cauliflower: for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket (or flipping each piece) halfway through for even crisping. Cook until the florets are golden and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy your crispy air fryer breaded cauliflower warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, buffalo sauce, or Chipotle Mayo.
Notes
Is Panko Breaded Cauliflower low-carb?
While breaded cauliflower is not technically a low-carb food, it is a good option for those on a low-carb diet. This is because air fryer cauliflower, which is a naturally low-carb vegetable, is a healthy alternative to deep-fried cauliflower.
Air Fryer Cauliflower uses less oil than traditional methods, and the breading is usually made from gluten-free or low-carb ingredients. However, you can use Pork Panko instead for keto cauliflower breadcrumbs.
If you’re not a fan of breaded cauliflower, please try Turmeric-Cumin Roasted Cauliflower and Air-fried Cauliflower Steaks.
Nutrition
Serving: 1servingCalories: 116kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 6gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 411mgPotassium: 371mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 230IUVitamin C: 46mgCalcium: 108mgIron: 1mg
Nutrition Disclaimer Nutritional information is an estimate and may change based on products used.
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