Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Recipe (Breaded)

Preheat the air fryer: Preheat to 400°F for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.

Make the buttermilk mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together ½ cup buttermilk, 1 large egg, and 2 tablespoons Frank's RedHot sauce until smooth. Add the cauliflower florets and toss until coated.

Mix the breading: In a second bowl, combine ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs, ¼ cup of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, and ¾ teaspoon salt.

Bread the cauliflower: Lift the cauliflower out of the wet mixture, letting excess drip off. Transfer to the breading mixture, pressing gently so it sticks. Shake off extra coating.

Air fry (first round): Arrange the cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket (cook in batches if needed). Lightly spray the tops with oil. Air fry for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Make the buffalo sauce: While the cauliflower cooks, warm ½ cup Frank's RedHot sauce, 2 tablespoons butter, and 1 teaspoon of honey in a small saucepan over low heat until melted and glossy.

Sauce + crisp: Brush the cooked cauliflower with buffalo sauce, then return to the air fryer for 3-4 minutes, until crisp and deeply golden.

Garnish and serve: Transfer to a serving bowl, sprinkle with chives, and serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese.