Air Fryer Cauliflower
Temperature
375°F
190°C
Time
15 min
1 small head
Safe internal
-
No minimum
Cauliflower in the air fryer goes all nutty and caramelized at the edges, which a crowded oven tray never managed for me. It takes a coating really well too, so it's my base whenever I'm in the mood for something like buffalo bites.
How to air fry cauliflower
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Add the fresh cauliflower to the basket. Don't crowd the basket.
- Cook for about 15 minutes, flipping or shaking halfway through.
Pro tip
Add a splash of lime juice after cooking for a fresh finish.
How to tell when it's done
Done is golden-brown at the edges and tender through the stem. I toss it halfway and try not to cram the basket, or it steams instead of crisping.
Converting from an oven recipe
If your recipe is written for a conventional oven, lower the temperature by about 25°F (15°C) and reduce the time by roughly 20% to land near 375°F for 15 minutes. Need a different starting point? Use the conversion calculator.
Air fryer cauliflower: FAQ
How long does it take to air fry cauliflower?
Air fry cauliflower at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping or shaking halfway through. That's for 1 small head in a single layer; adjust slightly for a fuller basket or a different model.
What temperature do you air fry cauliflower at?
Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). If you're converting an oven recipe, that's roughly 25°F (15°C) below the oven temperature, with the time cut by about 20%.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer for cauliflower?
A 2-3 minute preheat gives the most accurate timing and the best browning, but it isn't essential - if you skip it, add a minute or two to the cook time.