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Air Fryer Crispy BBQ Cauliflower Bites

Close-up of crispy, saucy Air Fryer Crispy BBQ Cauliflower Bites piled on a white plate.

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Make crispy, smoky BBQ cauliflower bites quickly in your air fryer. This recipe delivers a crunchy exterior and a flavorful coating.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil until lightly coated.
  2. In a separate shallow dish, mix the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Dredge the oiled cauliflower florets in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. You want a light coating.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C).
  5. Place the coated cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary.
  6. Air fry for 10 minutes.
  7. Carefully open the air fryer, toss the cauliflower lightly, and continue cooking for another 5 to 7 minutes, until the edges start to look golden brown and crisp.
  8. Remove the cauliflower from the air fryer. Place it in a clean bowl.
  9. Pour the BBQ sauce over the hot cauliflower and toss gently until every piece is coated.
  10. Return the sauced cauliflower to the air fryer basket. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes at 380°F (195°C) to set the sauce and make it sticky.
  11. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For extra crispness, you can lightly spray the floured cauliflower with cooking spray before the first air fry cycle.
  • Use a thick BBQ sauce so it adheres well to the cauliflower.
  • If you want a spicier bite, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.

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