Easy Buffalo Cauliflower Steak (Air Fryer Friendly)

Buffalo Cauliflower Steak Recipe – Air Fryer Baked with 10-Minute Prep and Fiery, Crispy Bite

Buffalo Cauliflower Steak Recipe – Air Fryer Baked

This Buffalo Cauliflower Steak Recipe transforms hearty cauliflower slices into fiery, crispy, flavor-packed “steaks” with just a handful of ingredients and a quick blast in the air fryer. Coated in a smoky buffalo sauce and cooked until golden and tender, these cauliflower steaks are a bold, plant-based alternative to classic buffalo wings.

The air fryer gives them irresistibly crisp edges while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Whether you’re serving them as a vegetarian main, a spicy side dish, or a game-day appetizer, they deliver the perfect balance of heat, crunch, and satisfying texture—all with zero deep-frying required.

Paired with creamy dips or nestled over salad, these steaks bring serious flavor without compromise.

Ingredients Overview

Cauliflower is the star here. One large head yields 2–3 thick “steaks” when sliced from the center. Choose a dense, compact head to avoid crumbling and to get evenly sized pieces. Save extra florets for another recipe or roast them alongside.

Buffalo sauce delivers tangy heat with that signature vinegar-kissed spice. Use your favorite store-bought brand or make your own by mixing hot sauce with melted butter or oil.

Olive oil helps crisp the surface while keeping the cauliflower moist inside. It also helps the seasoning cling and aids in browning.

Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt form the dry spice base. They enhance the buffalo flavor and add smoky depth.

Cornstarch is optional but highly effective—it helps the steaks develop a golden, crisp exterior by absorbing excess moisture.

Fresh parsley, chives, or green onions are great for garnish and contrast the heat with a fresh bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the cauliflower: Remove the outer leaves and trim the base of 1 large cauliflower, keeping the core intact. Slice into 1-inch thick steaks, starting from the center. You should get 2–3 solid steaks. Reserve broken florets for another use.
2. Season and coat: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons olive oil with ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon salt. Brush both sides of the steaks with the seasoned oil. Optional: lightly dust with 1 tablespoon cornstarch for extra crispness.
3. Air fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place cauliflower steaks in a single layer in the basket (work in batches if needed). Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and fork-tender.
4. Toss in buffalo sauce: While the steaks cook, warm ⅓ cup buffalo sauce in a saucepan or microwave. After air frying, gently brush or toss the cauliflower steaks in the sauce. Return to the air fryer for 2–3 more minutes to set the glaze.
5. Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped herbs and serve with ranch, blue cheese dip, or dairy-free alternatives. Add lemon wedges for brightness.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Use avocado oil or neutral oil instead of olive oil for a higher smoke point and neutral taste.

Make it gluten-free by ensuring your buffalo sauce is certified GF and skipping any breading.

For a milder version, mix buffalo sauce with honey or Greek yogurt to tame the heat.

If you don’t have an air fryer, bake in the oven at 425°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway and broiling at the end for crispness.

Top with toasted seeds or nuts for crunch, or sprinkle with nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami kick.

Add to wraps, grain bowls, or burgers for a plant-forward meal with bold flavor.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Serve as a bold vegetarian main course with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, or a crunchy slaw.

Perfect as a game-day snack or party platter—slice each steak in half and serve with toothpicks and dipping sauces.

Great for Meatless Monday or a low-carb dinner when you want heat without heaviness.

Slice and serve over salad greens with avocado and a drizzle of ranch or tahini dressing.

Add to tacos with shredded lettuce and pickled onions for a spicy twist on cauliflower tacos.

Nutritional & Health Notes

Cauliflower is low in calories, rich in fiber, and packed with vitamin C. Its firm structure makes it ideal for steaks and satisfying meatless meals.

Air frying reduces the oil needed compared to traditional frying, keeping the dish lighter without losing crunch.

Buffalo sauce is bold but can be customized in heat and richness—use avocado oil or butter-based versions depending on dietary needs.

This dish is naturally vegan if you use a plant-based buffalo sauce and dairy-free dip.

It’s also gluten-free and low-carb, depending on the brand of sauce and preparation.

FAQs

Can I make this in the oven?
Yes. Bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes on a parchment-lined sheet, flipping halfway. Broil the last 2–3 minutes to crisp the edges after adding buffalo sauce.

Why did my cauliflower fall apart?
Make sure to slice from the center of the head where the core holds the florets together. Outer pieces tend to break into florets—still delicious roasted!

Is buffalo sauce vegan?
Some are, but many contain butter. Check the label or make your own with hot sauce and olive oil or vegan butter.

Can I make these ahead of time?
They’re best fresh, but you can prep the steaks and store them raw, brushed with oil and seasoning, in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Air fry and sauce just before serving.

How spicy is it?
That depends on your buffalo sauce. For less heat, blend with melted butter, olive oil, or honey. For more, add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes.

Can I freeze buffalo cauliflower steaks?
It’s not ideal. The texture may get mushy. Better to refrigerate cooked leftovers for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer to regain crispness.

What dips go well with this?
Classic ranch, blue cheese dressing, or a yogurt-based garlic sauce work great. For dairy-free, use cashew-based ranch or avocado crema.

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