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Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower with Blue Cheese Dip Recipe

4.8 from 133 reviews

This Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower recipe offers a crispy, spicy alternative to traditional buffalo wings. Tender cauliflower florets are tossed in a flavorful mixture of hot sauce, butter, and spices, then air-fried to golden perfection. Served with a creamy blue cheese dressing, this dish is a delicious appetizer or snack that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Cauliflower

  • 1 head of cauliflower (about 1 1/2 lb.)
  • 3 Tbsp. Frank’s RedHot Sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. butter, melted
  • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1 Tbsp. cornstarch

Blue Cheese Dressing

  • 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (2 oz.)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 3 Tbsp. buttermilk
  • 2 Tbsp. mayonnaise
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: Break the head of cauliflower into same-sized florets to ensure even cooking. In a large bowl, combine Frank’s RedHot Sauce, melted butter, kosher salt, and garlic powder. Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss well to coat them evenly with the sauce mixture. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the cauliflower, tossing again to coat thoroughly; this will help achieve a crisp texture when air-fried.
  2. Air fry the cauliflower: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Using tongs, place the coated cauliflower florets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 15 minutes, tossing halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and crispiness. The cauliflower should have browned spots and a crispy exterior when done.
  3. Make the blue cheese dressing: While the cauliflower cooks, combine the crumbled blue cheese, sour cream, buttermilk, and mayonnaise in a small bowl. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir until well mixed, creating a creamy and flavorful dressing.
  4. Serve: Arrange the crispy buffalo cauliflower on a serving platter and serve alongside the blue cheese dressing for dipping. Enjoy this spicy, tangy, and creamy appetizer warm.

Notes

  • If you prefer a milder spice level, reduce the amount of hot sauce used.
  • Make sure to toss the cauliflower halfway through air frying to ensure it crisps evenly.
  • This recipe works well for a party appetizer or as a side dish alongside your main courses.
  • You can substitute blue cheese with ranch dressing for a different creamy dipping option.
  • Ensure the cauliflower florets are roughly the same size for uniform cooking.

Keywords: buffalo cauliflower, air fryer cauliflower, vegetarian appetizer, spicy cauliflower, blue cheese dip