Breaded Cauliflower in the Air Fryer Recipe
Introduction
Enjoy a crispy, flavorful snack or side with this easy Breaded Cauliflower recipe made in the air fryer. Lightly seasoned and perfectly crunchy, it’s a healthier twist on a favorite comfort food. Perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dip.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces cauliflower florets (about 5 cups)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Oil (for spritzing)
- Dip (if desired)
Instructions
- Step 1: Sort through the cauliflower florets and break or chop any larger pieces into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, beat the eggs with 1 tablespoon of water until well combined.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl or a sealable plastic bag, mix the panko, bread crumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt.
- Step 4: Dip the cauliflower florets in the egg mixture, stirring well to coat each piece thoroughly.
- Step 5: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cauliflower from the egg into the bread crumb mixture. Coat evenly by stirring or by sealing the bag and shaking gently.
- Step 6: Lightly spritz your air fryer basket with oil spray. Arrange the breaded cauliflower in a single layer, leaving space between pieces for air to circulate. Cook in batches if needed.
- Step 7: Spritz the coated cauliflower liberally with oil spray, then air fry at 380°F for 8 to 10 minutes until golden and crispy. For subsequent batches, check after 6 minutes as they may cook faster.
- Step 8: Serve immediately with your favorite dip, if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Try adding Parmesan cheese to the bread crumb mixture for an extra savory flavor.
- For a spicier kick, increase the chili powder or add cayenne pepper.
- Use gluten-free bread crumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Spritzing with oil is key for crispiness—don’t skip this step.
Storage
Store leftover breaded cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to regain crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I bake the breaded cauliflower instead of air frying?
Yes, you can bake it in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until crisp and golden.
What dips go well with breaded cauliflower?
This dish pairs well with ranch, blue cheese dressing, spicy mayo, or a simple garlic aioli. Choose your favorite to complement the flavors.
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Breaded Cauliflower in the Air Fryer Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This crispy Breaded Cauliflower recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fried snacks. Featuring seasoned panko breadcrumbs and a quick air frying technique, these cauliflower bites are perfectly golden and crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and easy to prepare for a guilt-free appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 16 ounces cauliflower florets (about 5 cups)
Coating
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
Other
- Oil (for spritzing)
- Dip (if desired, see notes)
Instructions
- Prepare Cauliflower: Sort through the cauliflower florets and break or chop any larger pieces into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Mix Egg Wash: In a medium bowl, beat the 2 large eggs with 1 tablespoon of water using a fork until combined.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a separate bowl or zip-top bag, combine 1 cup panko, ½ cup bread crumbs, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon salt. Stir or shake to mix well.
- Coat Cauliflower in Egg: Drop the cauliflower pieces into the egg mixture, stirring well to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Bread the Cauliflower: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the egg-coated cauliflower to the breadcrumb mixture. Stir to coat evenly or seal the bag and shake for uniform coverage.
- Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Spritz the air fryer basket with oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange and Cook: Place the breaded cauliflower in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between pieces for optimal air circulation. Lightly spritz the cauliflower with oil spray.
- Air Fry: Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy. For multiple batches, cooking time after the first batch may be shorter (about 6 minutes) due to residual heat.
- Serve: Serve hot with your choice of dip for added flavor.
Notes
- Ensure cauliflower pieces are uniform in size to promote even cooking.
- Using the bag shake method for breading helps achieve better coverage.
- Spritzing with oil before air frying encourages crispiness without deep frying.
- Check cauliflower early when cooking subsequent batches as cooking times may vary.
- Serve with dips like ranch, spicy mayo, or a yogurt-based sauce for extra taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: breaded cauliflower, air fryer cauliflower, crispy cauliflower bites, vegetarian appetizer, healthy snack
