Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Crave-Worthy Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Steak (Air Fryer Baked)

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Prep Time: 15 Minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 Minutes
  • Total Time: 35 Minutes
  • Yield: 4 Servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner

Description

How to make incredibly crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Steaks in your air fryer with spicy sauce that are ready in under 30 minutes for a satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Cauliflower Steaks & Breading:
  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into 1-inch thick “steaks”
  • 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond or soy recommended)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, plain
  • Spicy Buffalo Sauce:
  • ½ cup (1 stick) vegan butter, melted
  • ¾ cup Frank’s RedHot Original Hot Sauce (essential for classic buffalo flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Seasonings & Spices:
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • Garnish & Serving:
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • For serving, vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing
  • For serving, celery sticks

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

Notes

Ensure cauliflower is fully coated in panko and cooked in a single layer for ultimate crispiness.

Store leftover steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days; avoid microwaving for reheating.

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free panko for a delicious gluten-free version.

Serve immediately after air frying for maximum crispness, paired with vegan ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks.

Toast panko breadcrumbs before use to deepen their flavor and enhance the overall crispiness of your steaks.

**Allergy Information:** Gluten, Soy, Tree Nuts