Crispy Air-Fried Cauliflower with Cheese & Garlic

This air-fried cauliflower is a quick and delicious dish, perfect as a healthy snack or side. The florets are coated in a cheesy, garlic-seasoned breadcrumb mix, then air-fried to crispy, golden perfection. Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful air fryer recipe!

Ingredients

  • Cauliflower: 1 medium head, cut into florets
  • Eggs: 2 large
  • Breadcrumbs: 2/3 cup (80 g)
  • Grated Cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g) (such as Parmesan, cheddar, or mozzarella)
  • Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon (or 1-2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
  • Paprika Powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt and Pepper: to taste
  • Cooking Spray or Oil: as needed (for greasing the air fryer basket)

Servings: 4-6

Total Time: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cauliflower

  • Wash and Cut: Start by washing the cauliflower and cutting it into bite-sized florets.
  • Boil (Optional): For extra tenderness, boil the cauliflower florets in salted water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water to maintain texture and color. This step is optional if you prefer firmer cauliflower.

2. Prepare the Coating Mixture

  • Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2/3 cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated cheese, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
  • Beat the Eggs: In a separate bowl, lightly beat the 2 eggs to use as a binder for the coating.

3. Coat the Cauliflower

  • Dip and Coat: Dip each cauliflower floret into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Coat each floret with the breadcrumb-cheese mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
  • Prepare Air Fryer: Lightly grease your air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with a little oil to prevent sticking.

4. Air Fry the Cauliflower

  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 190°C (375°F) for 2-3 minutes.
  • Air Fry: Arrange the cauliflower florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each for even cooking. Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning. Cook until the cauliflower is golden and crispy.

5. Serve

  • Cool Slightly: Let the cauliflower cool for a few minutes after air frying to allow the coating to set.
  • Enjoy: Serve the crispy cauliflower with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or a light yogurt dip.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings)

  • Calories: 110 kcal
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugars: 2 g
  • Total Fat: 5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
  • Sodium: 210 mg

Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Cauliflower with Cheese and Garlic

  • Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure the cauliflower florets are spaced out in the air fryer basket to get crispy all around.
  • Shake for Even Cooking: Shake the basket halfway through cooking for an even, golden finish.
  • Experiment with Seasonings: Customize the flavor by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, or spice things up with a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Enjoy this tasty, healthier twist on oven-baked cauliflower, packed with cheesy goodness and perfect for sharing with family or friends!

This version cuts down cooking time while maintaining all the delicious flavor!