Air fryer garlic parmesan cauliflower is a quick and flavorful dish that works perfectly as both a side and a snack. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated with savory garlic and Parmesan, this easy recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is fast, simple, and packed with flavor. The air fryer creates beautifully roasted cauliflower without heating up your kitchen, making it ideal for busy weeknights or warm days.

You’ll love how the olive oil helps the seasoning stick to every floret, while the Parmesan and breadcrumbs create a lightly crisp, golden coating. It’s versatile enough to serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish, but just as satisfying eaten straight from the basket as a snack.

It’s also easy to adapt for gluten-free, keto, or vegetarian diets with simple ingredient swaps.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon garlic powder
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup olive oil
1 medium head fresh cauliflower, cut into florets

Directions

1. Wash the cauliflower thoroughly and pat dry. Cut the head into evenly sized florets. Smaller florets will cook faster and become crispier, while larger ones stay slightly more tender inside.
2. Place the cauliflower florets in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with 1/4 cup olive oil and toss well to coat every piece evenly.
3. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and salt. Mix until evenly blended.
4. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the oiled cauliflower. Toss thoroughly so the coating adheres to all sides of the florets.
5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes if your model requires preheating.
6. Arrange the cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary for maximum crispiness.
7. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking. The cauliflower is ready when it is crisp-tender and the coating is golden brown.
8. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: Approximately 142 kcal per serving

Variations

For a keto-friendly version, replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork-free crispy chicken skin alternative or almond flour. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

For a bolder flavor, substitute grated Romano cheese for the Parmesan. Asiago or another firm, grated cheese also works well.

To make it vegetarian-friendly without traditional cheese, use a grated plant-based cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor.

Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a little heat. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place the cauliflower back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may soften the coating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, but thaw and dry it thoroughly before coating. Excess moisture can prevent the coating from becoming crisp.

Why isn’t my cauliflower crispy?

Overcrowding the basket or skipping the oil can prevent crisping. Make sure the florets are spaced in a single layer and evenly coated with oil.

Can I make this without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can omit them entirely or substitute almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Some models require preheating for best results. If yours does, preheat for about 3 minutes at 400°F.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can cut the cauliflower and mix the dry ingredients ahead of time, but coat and cook just before serving for the best texture.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, sandwiches, wraps, or as part of a vegetarian platter.

How do I make it spicier?

Add cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mixture.

Can I bake this instead of air frying?

Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and tender.

What size air fryer was used for testing?

This recipe was tested in a 5-quart basket-style 1500-watt air fryer.

How do I keep leftovers crispy?

Reheat in the air fryer rather than the microwave, and avoid sealing while still warm to prevent condensation.

Conclusion

Air fryer garlic parmesan cauliflower is a simple yet flavorful dish that fits effortlessly into almost any meal plan. With its crispy coating, tender interior, and bold garlic-cheese flavor, it’s just as satisfying as a snack as it is a side dish. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this recipe is one you’ll find yourself making again and again.

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