Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower
Tender, golden brown air-fried cauliflower is the perfect side dish for any meal on your plan.
Serves4
Prep10 minutes
Cook15 minutes
We’ve fallen deeply in love with air-fried Brussels sprouts and broccoli, so it only made sense to give the same treatment to cauliflower. Here, cauliflower florets are seasoned with dried herbs and garlic powder, then air-fried until tender, crispy, and lightly brown on the tips. Unsurprisingly, the result is delicious — the perfect side to pair with whatever protein you’re serving.
What’s the Best Way to Cut Cauliflower?
Breaking down a whole head of cauliflower is easy once you know where to start. Here’s how to do it in three easy steps.
- Remove the leaves. Use a sharp knife to trim off the green outer leaves.
- Core the cauliflower. Cut the head into quarters, then remove the tough inner core.
- Separate the florets. Lay each quarter on a flat side and slice the stems to separate the florets. If the florets are larger than 2 inches in diameter, slice them in half through the stem and gently pull apart to separate.
And don’t forget: if you’re short on time, you can pick up a package of pre-cut cauliflower florets from the produce section.
Read more: How To Roast Cauliflower
What Temperature Do You Cook Cauliflower in the Air Fryer?
Every air fryer has a different set of temperature settings to choose from. For tender cauliflower with brown and crispy edges, set your air fryer to 390°F to 400°F.
How Should I Serve Air Fryer Cauliflower?
Seasoned, tender-crisp cauliflower is a versatile side dish that completes a dinner plate alongside any protein. It’s also the perfect addition to grain bowls, al dente pasta and olive oil, or a creamy soup.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Recipe
Tender, golden brown air-fried cauliflower is the perfect side dish for any meal on your plan.
Prep time 10 minutes
Cook time 15 minutes
Serves 4
Nutritional Info
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons
olive oil
- 3/4 teaspoon
kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon
dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon
garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon
freshly ground black pepper
- 1 medium head
cauliflower (1 1/2 to 2 pounds)
Instructions
Place 2 tablespoons olive oil, 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper in a large bowl and whisk to combine.
Cut 1 head cauliflower in half and cut out the tough core. Cut the florets into 1- to 1 1/2-inch pieces (6 to 7 cups). Transfer to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
Heat an air fryer to 390°F to 400°F. Arrange the cauliflower florets in an even layer in the basket or tray of a 5 1/2-quart or larger air fryer. Air fry, tossing every 5 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender with browned and crispy edges, about 15 minutes total.
Recipe Notes
Make ahead: The cauliflower can be cut into florets up to 3 days in advance and refrigerated.
Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.