These crispy buffalo cauliflower bites, sometimes called buffalo cauliflower wings due to their resemblance to buffalo chicken wings, are one of the best ways to classic buffalo flavor — all while sneaking in a veggie and without deep frying. I’ll show you how to make them two ways (baked buffalo cauliflower or buffalo cauliflower in the air fryer) for an easy snack or side dish on game day… or any time you need to shake up your veggies. I love buffalo flavored dishes, and if you do too, don’t miss out on my spaghetti squash casserole, buffalo chicken dip, or buffalo chicken meatballs.
What Is Buffalo Cauliflower?
Buffalo cauliflower recipes take all the flavor of traditional buffalo chicken wings and swap the meat with bite-sized (and sometimes breaded) cauliflower florets. The result is a mouthwatering combination of crispy veggies and zesty sauce, perfect for dipping!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This section explains how to choose the best ingredients for buffalo cauliflower bites, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card below.
Cauliflower – Use a whole cauliflower with tight florets and cut into bite-sized pieces, or buy florets pre-cut for convenience. Either way, make sure they are uniform in size.Olive Oil – Helps spices adhere to the cauliflower and brown the florets evenly. You can substitute your favorite neutral cooking oil.Buffalo Sauce – The hot sauce of choice for cauliflower buffalo wings! Use your favorite one.Unsalted Butter – Creates the buffalo wing sauce and helps temper the heat for it. You can also substitute ghee, coconut oil, or olive oil if you need a dairy-free option.Spices – Including sea salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder.
How To Make Buffalo Cauliflower In The Oven
This section shows how to cook baked buffalo cauliflower, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions, including amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card below. If you prefer breaded cauliflower, you can do this in two ways:
For the regular version – In a freezer bag or large bowl with a lid, add spices and 3 tablespoons cornstarch (or a cornstarch substitute). Add cauliflower florets and toss to coat, then toss with oil and cook per recipe instructions. For keto buffalo cauliflower – Combine 1 1/3 cup almonds and spices in a food processor. Pulse until the consistency is finely ground (avoid over-processing). Alternatively, mix 1 cup almond flour with spices in a freezer bag or large bowl with lid. Whisk 1 large egg in a bowl and add cauliflower, stirring to coat, then transfer to the container with breading mixture and shake to coat. Cook per recipe instructions.
How To Cook Buffalo Cauliflower In The Air Fryer
This section shows how to make air fryer buffalo cauliflower, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions, including amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card below.
Storage Instructions
Store: Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for 3-4 days.Reheat: For the crispiest results, reheat in a toaster oven, air fryer, or hot oven.Freeze: I don’t recommend freezing this recipe, as the texture will get too soft.
What To Serve With Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
The zippy sauce in this recipe pairs with a variety of cool and creamy sides. Try these ideas! Cauliflower will not cook evenly if there is not enough space between the florets.
Dipping Sauce – Homemade ranch dressing and blue cheese dressing are classic options. You could also try plain yogurt mixed with fresh dill, or a drizzle of sugar-free honey.Veggies – Carrots and celery are classic choices with air fried or baked buffalo cauliflower, but you can also try cucumbers, sugar snap peas, or mini bell peppers.Salads and slaws – Tame the heat with creamy cucumber salad, low carb coleslaw, or cucumber tomato avocado salad.
More Easy Cauliflower Recipes
If you like this veggie, try these comforting cauliflower dishes for your next gathering: Share your recipe picture by tagging @wholesomeyum and hashtag it #wholesomeyum on Instagram, or in our Facebook support group, too – I’d love to see it!
