• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Eat With Carmen
menu icon
go to homepage
  • My Recipes
  • About Me
  • Contact Me
  • Shop
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • My Recipes
    • About Me
    • Contact Me
    • Shop
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Home » Air Fryer

    Best Air Fryer Cauliflower (Parmesan Crusted)

    Published: Apr 25, 2023 · Modified: Sep 14, 2023 by Carmen Spillette · This post may contain affiliate links · 4 Comments

    Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

    If you’re looking for a new and exciting way to enjoy cauliflower, you’ve got to try this crispy air fryer cauliflower recipe. Not only is it absolutely delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. The air fryer is my go-to method when it comes to cooking veggies. It gives them a crispy texture with less oil, making them a healthier alternative to traditional fried foods.

    cauliflower in the air fryer

    This air fried cauliflower is even better when you add a cheesy garlic parmesan crust to the mix. It just takes things to a whole new level of yumminess. With just a few basic ingredients and about 15 minutes in the air fryer, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests. So, let’s get to it and make some air fryer cauliflower bites!

    This was inspired by my Easy Asian Garlic Noodle recipe, I needed a healthy vegetable side dish and this was the perfect pairing. For proteins, I really highly suggest my Honey Garlic Chicken Breast and my Juicy Air Fryer Pork Chops with my Garlic Braised Kale. 

    Jump to:
    • Why you will love this dish
    • What you need for Air Fryer Roasted Cauliflower
    • How to make air fryer cauliflower
    • Substitutions
    • Variations
    • Equipment
    • How to store cauliflower
    • 3 Top Tips for Success
    • FAQ
    • Related
    • Pairing
    • Best Air Fryer Cauliflower (Parmesan Crusted)

    Why you will love this dish

    • It’s a healthier way to enjoy a classic comfort food: Fried cauliflower is a popular comfort food, but it’s often loaded with oil and calories. By air frying the cauliflower and adding a Parmesan crust, this recipe is a healthier alternative that still satisfies their cravings.
    • It’s easy and quick to make: People love air fryer recipes that are easy and quick to make, especially on busy weeknights. This recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and 15 minutes in the air fryer, making it a great option for those who don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.
    • It’s a versatile side dish or snack: This air-fried cauliflower is a versatile dish that can be served as an easy side dish for dinner or as healthy snacks. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family at gatherings, and it’s sure to become your new favorite way to serve cauliflower.
    air fryer roasted cauliflower

    What you need for Air Fryer Roasted Cauliflower

    Cauliflower florets 

    Parmigiano Reggiano cheese (parmesan)

    Extra virgin olive oil

    Flat leaf parsley

    Fresh garlic 

    Red chili flakes (optional)

    Pinch of salt and pepper

    See recipe card for quantities.


    How to make air fryer cauliflower

    cauliflower in air fryer

    cauliflower air fryer

    air fried cauliflower

    roasted cauliflower air fryer

    • Cut the cauliflower into bite-size florets. Make sure every piece has a flat area for the parmesan crust to adhere to. 
    • Mix the olive oil, salt, pepper, red chili flakes, parsley and parmesan cheese in a bowl. 
    • Spread the parmesan mixture evenly on the bottom of the air fryer basket. Make sure to remove the bottom tray. You want a flat surface for the crust to form. 
    • Place the cauliflower flat side down. 
    • Air fry at 350 degrees for 15 minutes or until the parmesan cheese is melted and brown and develops a nice bottom crust. 
    • Serve warm and enjoy.

    Substitutions

    1. Cauliflower: If you don’t have cauliflower, you could try using broccoli florets instead. Or, you could use a different vegetable altogether, such as zucchini, eggplant, or carrots.
    2. Parmigiano Reggiano cheese: If you can’t find Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, you could use a different type of hard, salty cheese, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago. Alternatively, you could try using nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
    3. Extra virgin olive oil: You could use any type of cooking oil that you prefer, such as avocado oil, coconut oil, or vegetable oil.
    4. Flat leaf parsley: If you don’t have parsley, you could try using cilantro, basil, chives, or a similar seasoning blend instead.
    5. Minced garlic: You could use garlic powder or onion powder instead of minced garlic. Alternatively, you could omit the garlic altogether.
    6. Red chili flakes: If you don’t like spicy food, you could omit red chili powder or flakes. Or, you could use a different type of chili pepper, such as cayenne pepper or paprika, for a milder heat.

    Variations

    Here are a few different variations you could try with this air fryer cauliflower recipe:

    1. Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower: Toss the fresh cauliflower florets with a mixture of hot sauce, melted butter, and garlic powder before air frying. Once they’re cooked, sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles and chopped celery.
    2. Italian Cauliflower: Instead of Parmesan cheese, use mozzarella cheese and add some Italian seasoning. Serve with a tasty dipping sauce like marinara sauce.
    3. Mediterranean Cauliflower: Replace the Parmesan cheese with feta cheese, and add some chopped Kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, and fresh oregano to the mix.
    4. Ranch Cauliflower: Mix together some ranch seasoning mix and Panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs), then coat the cauliflower florets in the mixture before air frying. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch dressing.

    Equipment

    • Air fryer
    • Knife 
    • Cutting board
    • Bowl

    How to store cauliflower

    To store leftover air fried cauliflower, allow it to cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

    To reheat the cauliflower, you can use the air fryer again, or you can use a conventional oven or microwave. Here’s how to do it:

    1. Air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover cooked cauliflower in the basket of the air fryer and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
    1. Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover breaded cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
    1. Microwave: Place the leftover cauliflower in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

    air fryer cauliflower

    3 Top Tips for Success

    1. Use dry cauliflower florets: Moisture is the enemy of crispy cauliflower. To ensure your cauliflower gets crispy and golden brown, make sure the florets are dry before you start. You can blot them dry with kitchen towels, or let them air dry for a bit before coating them in the Parmesan mixture.
    2. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket: For the best results, it’s important not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. The cauliflower needs space to cook evenly and get crispy edges. If you need to make a large batch, you may need to cook it in batches to ensure the cauliflower gets crispy and evenly cooked.
    3. Flip the cauliflower halfway through cooking: To make sure the cauliflower gets crispy on all sides, it’s a good idea to flip it halfway through cooking. This will ensure that the Parmesan coating gets evenly browned and the cauliflower gets crispy on all sides. Use tongs to carefully flip the cauliflower florets over, and then return them to the air fryer basket to finish cooking.

    FAQ

    Does air frying cauliflower take away nutrients?

    Some nutrient loss may occur during air frying due to exposure to heat and oxygen, but it is generally minimal compared to other cooking methods.

    How long does it take for cauliflower to be cooked?

    The cooking time for cauliflower in an air fryer depends on the size and thickness of the florets, as well as the temperature of the air fryer. Typically, it takes 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to cook cauliflower until it is tender and golden brown with a crispy exterior.

    Is it OK to soak cauliflower in water?

    Yes, it is okay to soak cauliflower in water. Soaking cauliflower in water can help remove any dirt or debris that may be on the surface of the cauliflower. It is generally recommended to only soak cauliflower for two to three minutes before rinsing and drying it thoroughly before cooking.

    Related

    Looking for other air fryer recipes like this? Try these:

    • chicken katsu air fryer
      Chicken Katsu Air Fryer with Homemade Tonkatsu Sauce
    • bbq chicken in air fryer
      The Best Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Recipe
    • garlic cheese bread
      Best Homemade Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe
    • air fryer chicken sausage
      Air Fryer Chicken Sausage with Veggies – 20 minute meal

    Pairing

    These are my favorite dishes to serve with air fried cauliflower:

    • cashew chicken with rice
      Cashew Chicken Recipe – Better Than Takeout
    • air fryer sweet and sour chicken
      Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe – kinda healthy
    • air fryer short ribs
      Easy Korean Beef Short Ribs in Air Fryer Recipe
    • air fryer ribs
      Easy Sticky Air Fryer Ribs only 4 Ingredients

    cauliflower in the air fryer
    Print
    clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

    Best Air Fryer Cauliflower (Parmesan Crusted)

    5 from 2 reviews

    Print Recipe
    Pin Recipe

    Air Fryer Cauliflower is amazing! With just a few simple ingredients and about 15 minutes in the air fryer, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress.

    • Total Time: 20 minutes
    • Yield: 2 cups of cauliflower

    Ingredients

    2 cups of cauliflower florets

    ½ cup of grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese (parmesan)

    2 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil

    2 tablespoon of flat leaf parsley, minced

    1 teaspoon of minced garlic

    1 teaspoon of red chili flakes (optional)

    Pinch of salt and pepper

    Instructions

    1. Cut the cauliflower into bite-size florets. Make sure every piece has a flat area for the parmesan crust to adhere to. 
    2. Mix the olive oil, salt, pepper, red chili flakes, parsley and parmesan cheese in a bowl. 
    3. Spread the parmesan mixture evenly on the bottom of the air fryer basket. Make sure to remove the bottom tray. You want a flat surface for the crust to form. 
    4. Place the cauliflower flat side down. 
    5. Air fry at 350 degrees for 15 minutes or until the parmesan cheese is melted and brown and develops a nice bottom crust. 
    6. Serve warm and enjoy.

    Equipment

    Image of knife

    knife

    Buy Now →
    Image of cutting board

    cutting board

    Buy Now →
    Image of bowl

    bowl

    Buy Now →
    Instant Pot Vortex Air Fryer

    Air Fryer

    Buy Now →
    • Author: Carmen
    • Prep Time: 5 minutes
    • Cook Time: 15minutes
    • Category: sides
    • Method: air fry

    Keywords: air fryer cauliflower, air fried cauliflower, cauliflower in air fryer, cauliflower air fryer

    Did you make this recipe?

    PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW

    More Air Fryer

    • air fryer garlic bread
      Easy Air Fryer Garlic Bread with Roasted Garlic
    • air fryer steak bites
      Super Easy Air Fryer Steak Bites with Cowboy Butter
    • air fryer ribeye
      The Best Air Fryer Ribeye Steak Recipe with Garlic Butter
    • air fryer salmon bites
      Easy Air Fryer Salmon Bites (only 13 minutes)

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

      Leave a Reply Cancel reply

      Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

      Recipe rating ★ 5 Stars ☆ ★ 4 Stars ☆ ★ 3 Stars ☆ ★ 2 Stars ☆ ★ 1 Star ☆

    1. Charlotte M

      June 23, 2023 at 10:49 pm

      This is a MUST try for all vegetarians!!!! I think I found my new favorite food!!!






      Reply
      • Carmen Spillette

        June 24, 2023 at 2:59 am

        Thank you

        Reply
    2. Polly

      April 27, 2023 at 7:13 am

      Tastes so good even without sauce!






      Reply
      • Carmen

        April 27, 2023 at 1:57 pm

        Thank you, Polly

        Reply

    Primary Sidebar

    Don’t miss out on my latest recipes

    SUBSCRIBE NOW
    Carmen Spillette - Eat with Carmen

    My name is Carmen and welcome to the place I like to store my recipes. I hope you enjoy trying out my recipes just as much as I did creating them!

    More about me →

    CHECK OUT MY
    AMAZON STORE

    FOR ALL MY FAVORITE PRODUCTS

    SHOP

    VIRAL RECIPES

    • Garlic Miso Chicken
      Garlic Miso Chicken Air Fryer
      Cook Time25 minutes
    • San Bei Ji
      Fast and Easy 3 Cup Chicken (San Bei Ji Recipe)
      Cook Time30 minutes
    • spicy sesame chicken
      Spicy Sesame Chicken – Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs
      Cook Time20 minutes
    • braised cabbage
      Sesame Braised Cabbage
      Cook Time20 minutes

    AIR FRYER RECIPES

    • salmon sushi cups cover
      Viral Easy Baked Salmon Sushi Cups – individual size
    • air fryer pork belly bites
      Crispy Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites only 4 ingredients!
    • air fryer bone-in chicken breasts
      Balsamic Air Fry Bone-In Chicken Breast Recipe
    • honey ginger chicken
      Honey Ginger Chicken (Easy 20-Minute Air Fryer Chicken Recipe)
    See more Air Fryer →

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Privacy Policy
    • Disclaimer

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Contact

    • Contact

    Copyright © 2023 Eat With Carmen

    Manage Cookie Consent
    We use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. We do this to improve browsing experience and to show (non-) personalized ads. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
    Functional Always active
    The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
    Preferences
    The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
    Statistics
    The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
    Marketing
    The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
    Manage options Manage services Manage {vendor_count} vendors Read more about these purposes
    View preferences
    {title} {title} {title}