Looking for a delicious and healthy game-day snack? These Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are crispy, spicy, and the perfect meatless alternative to traditional wings! With minimal oil and bold flavors, they’re a fantastic appetizer that everyone will love.
Budget Information
The total cost to prepare this flavorful Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Wings recipe is approximately $6.00. With four servings available, that breaks down to about $1.50 per serving. A tasty treat that won’t break the bank!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe hits all the right notes: it’s crispy, spicy, and just downright delicious! Using the air fryer allows you to achieve that perfect crunch without the unnecessary oiliness of frying. And let’s be honest—who wouldn’t love devouring a plateful of spicy, tender cauliflower bites while watching a game? Plus, the versatility of the sauce means you can experiment and find your perfect flavor combo!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these cauliflower wings:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower ($2.00) – A fresh head for that perfect crunch.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs ($1.00) – For that irresistibly crispy coating; gluten-free panko works too!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil ($0.30) – You can use avocado oil for a different flavor.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter ($0.70) – If salted is all you have, just reduce the salt in your seasoning.
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot) ($1.00) – This is what gives those wings their fiery kick!
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder ($0.10) – For added umami flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika ($0.10) – Adds warmth and a subtle sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper ($0.10) – Optional if you want to kick the heat up a notch.
- Salt (to taste) – You probably have this in your pantry already.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Start by prepping your ingredients. Grab a mixing bowl and toss together the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. The spices will make your wings pop with flavor! Set this mix aside so it’s ready to coat those lovely cauliflower florets later on.
Step 2: Next, melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Once it’s all melted, pour in the olive oil and hot sauce. Stir them together until it resembles a perfect spicy mixture that’ll coat every cauliflower bite in zingy goodness! This sauce is where all the flavor magic happens.
Step 3: Time to tackle the cauliflower! Chop the head into bite-sized florets. You want them reasonably uniform, so they cook evenly. Toss those florets into a large mixing bowl and pour half of the hot sauce mixture over them. Now, get your hands in there and toss until every piece is beautifully coated.
Step 4: Now, sprinkle the seasoned panko mix over the saucy cauliflower. Again, use your hands or a spatula to mix until every inch of those florets is covered in the crunchy goodness—trust me, this will make all the difference in the final texture!
Step 5: Carefully place the coated cauliflower into the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. This allows for that divine crisping. Set your air fryer to 370°F and let it work its magic for about 12 to 15 minutes. When halfway through, gently shake the basket to ensure all the wings are cooking evenly. They’re ready when they turn a gorgeous golden brown!
Step 6: Once your cauliflower bites are cooked to perfection, transfer them onto a serving platter, and drizzle over any remaining hot sauce for an extra kick. Don’t forget to sprinkle that leftover crunchy panko crumb from the basket over the top—waste not, want not! Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy every spicy, crunchy bite!
Nutritional Facts
Calories: 142
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 1335mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
While these cauliflower bites taste best fresh, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 370°F for about 4 minutes to regain that delightful crispiness. Nobody likes soggy leftovers!
Serving Suggestions
These Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are perfect for dipping! Serve them alongside a zesty ranch or creamy bleu cheese dressing for a classic pairing. You can also throw in some crunchy celery and carrot sticks for added freshness and a bit of relief from the heat!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
For the best results, try soaking the cauliflower in the sauce and coating it with panko just before you air fry, to keep everything crispy. If you’re hitting a party, feel free to double the recipe—just make sure to prep the cauliflower in batches so they fry evenly! And remember, experimenting with different sauces can lead to delightful flavor discoveries—honey-Sriracha is a fantastic alternative for those who enjoy a bit of sweetness!
Recipe FAQs
How do you store cauliflower bites? These taste best fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer and cook at 370 degrees F for 4 minutes.
What is the best sauce for buffalo cauliflower wings? Frank’s Red Hot Wing Sauce is the go-to option! Other alternatives include Texas Pete or Crystal Hot Sauce for different flavor profiles.
What do you serve with cauliflower wings? Fresh raw veggies like carrot and celery sticks are perfect companions, along with your favorite dripping sauce—ranch or bleu cheese are classic choices.
How do you bake cauliflower wings in the oven? If you prefer the oven, arrange the cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake at 400 degrees F for about 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Just swap out the panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour, and you’ll have a fabulous gluten-free treat!
