Air Fryer Crispy BBQ Cauliflower Bites
Make crispy, saucy BBQ cauliflower bites quickly using your air fryer. This recipe delivers a crunchy exterior perfect for an appetizer or side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 18 min
- Total Time: 28 min
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
Instructions
- Place the cauliflower florets in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until the cauliflower is lightly coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 3 minutes.
- Place the seasoned cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary to maintain crispiness.
- Air fry for 10 minutes. Shake the basket well.
- Continue to air fry for another 5 to 8 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender inside and golden brown and crispy outside.
- Transfer the hot, crispy cauliflower to a clean bowl. Pour the BBQ sauce over the bites and toss gently until they are evenly coated.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can lightly dust the oiled cauliflower with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch before air frying.
- If your BBQ sauce is very thick, thin it slightly with a teaspoon of water before tossing.
- Cooking time varies based on air fryer model and floret size; check for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 4
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 0