Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower

Name: Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh cauliflower florets; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp grated parmesan cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder

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Tender yet crispy cauliflower bites infused with the bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan make this a versatile side dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this easy recipe complements a variety of main courses and satisfies everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping for the week, these bites deliver flavor and crunch without the hassle.

Table of Contents

Chef’s Tips

Uniform size: Cut cauliflower florets into even sizes to ensure they cook uniformly.
Shake the basket: Shake the air fryer basket halfway through to ensure the cauliflower gets evenly crispy.
Custom seasoning: Experiment with other seasoning blends like smoked paprika, Italian herbs, or Cajun spices for a unique twist.
Oven alternative: If you don’t have an air fryer, bake the cauliflower at 450°F for about 20 minutes, tossing halfway for even cooking.
Dairy-free option: Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.

Ingredients

4 cups fresh cauliflower florets: Fresh florets provide the best texture, but frozen cauliflower can work if thawed and patted dry beforehand.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps achieve that crispy exterior while enhancing the flavor of the seasonings.
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, savory kick. Use freshly grated for the best flavor.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the cauliflower with a robust garlic flavor, evenly distributing the seasoning.

Instructions

Prep the cauliflower: Wash the cauliflower and cut it into bite-sized florets if using a whole head. Pre-cut florets can also be used for convenience.
Mix the seasonings: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, grated Parmesan, and garlic powder. Stir well to create a seasoning mixture.
Coat the cauliflower: Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
Air fry: Arrange the cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 380°F for 14 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Serve: Remove the cauliflower from the air fryer, transfer to a serving dish, and serve hot. Enjoy as a side dish or a crispy topping for soups and curries.

glass bowl full of cauliflower mixed with seasoning

air fry basket with cauliflowers crispied

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and pat the cauliflower dry before coating it with the seasoning. Excess moisture can prevent the cauliflower from getting crispy.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to regain crispiness.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini can be seasoned and cooked alongside cauliflower. Adjust cooking times based on the size and texture of the vegetables.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly. It pairs well with low-carb mains like baked salmon, grilled chicken, or roasted turkey.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great substitute. It offers a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

close up view of air fried cauliflower detailing the crispy textures

These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Cauliflower bites are a quick, delicious, and versatile addition to your meal rotation. Packed with flavor and crispiness, they’re sure to be a hit with the whole family!