Looking for a healthy snack or side dish that’s satisfyingly crispy and packed with flavor? This Air Fryer Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower is the perfect guilt-free indulgence. Whether you’re trying to sneak more veggies into your meals or wow your guests with a crunchy appetizer, this recipe is a game-changer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Crispy without deep frying: Thanks to the air fryer, you get all the crunch without the extra oil.
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Cheesy & savory: Parmesan adds bold flavor and irresistible texture.
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Quick and easy: Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
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Keto & low-carb friendly: Perfect for healthy eating or weight management plans.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup breadcrumbs (use almond flour for low-carb option)
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2 eggs
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Olive oil spray
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Prep the Cauliflower
Wash and cut your cauliflower into even-sized florets to ensure they cook evenly in the air fryer.
2: Set Up Your Dipping Stations
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Bowl 1: Beat the eggs.
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Bowl 2: Mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3: Coat the Florets
Dip each floret into the egg mixture, then roll in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
4: Air Fry to Perfection
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Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
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Arrange the florets in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
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Lightly spray with olive oil.
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Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Pro Tips for Extra Crispiness
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Don’t overcrowd the basket — space is key to a crunchy texture.
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For an extra crispy finish, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top halfway through cooking.
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Want more spice? Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the coating mix.
Serving Suggestions
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Appetizer: Serve with ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli dipping sauce.
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Side dish: Pair with grilled chicken, burgers, or pasta.
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Snack: Enjoy as a crunchy, guilt-free movie night treat.
Storage & Reheating
Storage: Let cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Reheating: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to regain crispiness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
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Calories: 140
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Protein: 8g
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Fat: 9g
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Carbohydrates: 7g
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Fiber: 2g
Why Make Air Fryer Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower?
This dish proves that healthy doesn’t have to be boring. The air fryer works magic to transform simple cauliflower into crispy, golden bites with a cheesy punch. It’s ideal for picky eaters, party platters, or anyone trying to enjoy more vegetables in a fun and flavorful way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Substitute the Parmesan with a plant-based version and use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
Can I freeze air-fried cauliflower?
It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it after air frying. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
Try almond flour, crushed pork rinds (for keto), or panko for extra crunch.
Do I need to pre-cook the cauliflower?
No. Raw cauliflower works perfectly — the air fryer cooks it through while crisping the outside.
How do I make it spicier?
Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the egg mixture for a kick.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower is the crunchy, cheesy, and satisfying snack you didn’t know you needed. It’s a crowd-pleaser that fits into nearly any diet and brings flavor to the table without the grease. Whether you’re prepping for a party or just craving something crispy, this recipe delivers.