Go Back
Crispy air fryer cauliflower florets in a white bowl, garnished with fresh parsley on a wooden surface

Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower

This crispy air fryer cauliflower is a quick vegetable side dish that delivers deliciously golden and perfectly spiced bites in just 20 minutes. It's an easy air fryer cauliflower recipe that will impress your guests while being a healthy option you can enjoy any night of the week!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small head cauliflower, cut into florets Fresh works best but frozen florets will do in a pinch.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Swap for avocado oil if preferred.
  • ¼ teaspoon ground turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt Be generous to bring out the flavors.
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs or a silicone spatula

Method
 

  1. Start by cutting the cauliflower into small, even-sized florets. This ensures they cook evenly and crisp up beautifully.
  2. Toss the florets in a mixing bowl with olive oil, turmeric, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is well-coated—it’s the key to flavor-packed bites.
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Spread the cauliflower in a single layer in the basket, then roast for 15 minutes, shaking the basket every 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
  4. Once the florets are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. They're perfect as is or with your favorite dipping sauce on the side.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the basket: If the florets are too close together, they’ll steam instead of crisping up. Cook in batches if needed. Check often: Cauliflower can go from golden to burnt fast. Set a timer to flip/shake the basket every 3 minutes. Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to get creative—try using chili powder, cumin, or Parmesan cheese. Make ahead: Cut and season the cauliflower earlier in the day. Store it in the fridge, then cook when ready to serve. Leftovers: Store in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes to re-crisp.