Ingredients for Buffalo Cauliflower Steak Air Fryer Baked

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into 1-inch thick “steaks”: The star ingredient, transforms into hearty, satisfying “steaks.” Choose a firm, white head for best results.
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond or soy recommended): Creates the wet dredge, allowing breading to adhere perfectly. Unsweetened varieties prevent unwanted sweetness.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the crispy coating, ensuring the cauliflower gets beautifully golden. Sift for a smoother batter.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, plain: Provides incredible crispiness and texture, essential for air fryer success. Don’t substitute for regular breadcrumbs.
• ½ cup (1 stick) vegan butter, melted: Adds rich, buttery flavor to the Buffalo sauce without dairy. Melt slowly to avoid separation.
• ¾ cup Frank’s RedHot Original Hot Sauce (essential for classic buffalo flavor): The foundation of the spicy Buffalo flavor. Frank’s RedHot is the classic choice for authentic taste.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Adds a crucial tang and brightness to the Buffalo sauce, balancing the richness. Use good quality vinegar.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a savory depth into the breading and sauce. A pantry staple for robust flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic, adding another layer of aromatic savoriness. Ensures a well-rounded spice blend.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Delivers a warm, smoky note that enhances the overall flavor profile. Adjust to your preference.
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt: Essential for seasoning, bringing out all the other flavors. Taste and adjust as needed.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground: Adds a subtle peppery kick and depth. Freshly ground offers the best aroma.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Provides a pop of color and fresh, herbaceous contrast to the rich Buffalo flavor. Chop just before serving.
• For serving, vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing: A cooling, creamy accompaniment that perfectly balances the spicy Buffalo cauliflower steak.
• For serving, celery sticks: Offer a refreshing crunch and traditional side to buffalo dishes, cutting through the heat.

How to Make Buffalo Cauliflower Steak Air Fryer Baked

Prep Cauliflower:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut the large head of cauliflower into 1-inch thick “steaks.” Set up three shallow bowls: one for plant-based milk, one for flour, and one for panko breadcrumbs.

Season Flour:

In the flour bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, fine sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined. This ensures flavorful breading for your steaks.

Bread Steaks:

Dredge each cauliflower steak first in the seasoned flour, then fully coat in the plant-based milk, and finally press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs. Ensure complete coverage for ultimate crispiness.

Air Fry Steaks:

Place breaded cauliflower steaks in a single layer in your preheated air fryer. Cook the Buffalo Cauliflower Steak Air Fryer Baked for 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C), flipping halfway, until golden brown.

Make Sauce:

While the cauliflower cooks, melt the vegan butter. Whisk in Frank’s RedHot Original Hot Sauce and apple cider vinegar until emulsified, creating your spicy Buffalo sauce. Set aside until ready to toss.

Coat & Crisp:

Once air-fried, gently toss the crispy cauliflower steaks in the prepared Buffalo sauce until fully coated. Return the sauced Buffalo Cauliflower Steak Air Fryer Baked to the air fryer for 3-5 minutes more to crisp up.

Garnish & Serve:

Garnish your delicious Buffalo Cauliflower Steak Air Fryer Baked with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately with a side of vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing and crisp celery sticks for a satisfying meal.

How to Store Buffalo Cauliflower Steak Air Fryer Baked

To store leftover Buffalo Cauliflower Steak Air Fryer Baked, refrigerate promptly in an airtight container for 3-4 days to keep them fresh. If not stored correctly, they can become soggy, a mistake I’ve made too often. Discard any with discoloration or an off-smell.

For make-ahead, bread the cauliflower steaks a day in advance and store raw in the fridge. Air fry and coat with sauce just before serving for optimal crispiness.

Reheat in the air fryer (350°F/175°C) for a few minutes until crisp. Avoid microwaving.

What to Serve with Buffalo Cauliflower Steak Air Fryer Baked

Serve these Crave-Worthy Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Steaks hot off the air fryer for maximum crispness. They are perfect as a hearty appetizer, arranged beautifully, or as a satisfying main course. Pair them with cool vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing and crisp celery sticks for a classic Buffalo experience. Enjoy with a refreshing craft beer.

My personal favorite way to enjoy these is piled high on a plate with plenty of vegan ranch for dipping, especially during game nights. It’s such a satisfying and flavorful dish that always hits the spot and is easy to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent soggy Crave-Worthy Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Steaks?

The key is proper breading and not overcrowding the air fryer. Ensure each steak is fully coated in panko and cooked in a single layer. My first attempts were soggy from overcrowding, so trust me on this!

→ What if I don’t have an air fryer for these Buffalo Cauliflower Steaks?

You can bake them in an oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway. While they won’t be as crispy as air-fried, they’ll still be delicious. I learned this from my initial soggy oven attempts.

→ Can I make these Crave-Worthy Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Steaks gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The texture and flavor will still be fantastic for your dietary needs.

→ Can I make ahead or freeze these air fryer Buffalo cauliflower steaks?

You can bread the steaks a day ahead and store them raw in the fridge. Air fry and sauce just before serving for optimal crispness. Freezing cooked steaks isn’t recommended as they lose texture.

→ Can I substitute the Frank’s RedHot for another hot sauce?

For authentic classic Buffalo flavor, I strongly recommend sticking with Frank’s RedHot Original Hot Sauce. Other hot sauces will change the distinct taste profile significantly. I’ve tried, and it’s just not the same.