Air Fryer Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a simple, crispy, and super tasty way to enjoy veggies. The cauliflower gets perfectly roasted in the air fryer until it’s golden and just a little crunchy on the edges, all coated with a delicious mix of Parmesan cheese and seasoning that adds a nice punch of flavor.
I love making this dish because it’s quick to throw together and the air fryer makes the cauliflower crispy without needing much oil. The cheesy flavor hits just right, and it’s a great way to sneak some extra veggies into any meal. Plus, it’s a nice change from plain roasted cauliflower, which can sometimes be a bit boring.
My favorite way to serve it is alongside grilled chicken or mixed into a warm salad for some extra texture. It also makes a great snack or appetizer that everyone seems to enjoy. Whenever I make this, people always ask for seconds because it’s that simple and tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Fresh, medium-sized florets work best for even cooking. Avoid florets that are too big or too small to get a uniform roast. Frozen cauliflower can be used but may turn out softer.
Olive Oil: This helps the cauliflower crisp up in the air fryer. You can use avocado or vegetable oil as alternatives if needed.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps build a crispy coating. If you want a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or finely ground cashews.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and paprika bring depth and a slight smokiness. Feel free to adjust these or add dried herbs like thyme or oregano for different flavor profiles.
How Do I Get Crispy Cauliflower Without It Getting Soggy?
Making cauliflower crispy in the air fryer is all about preparation and air circulation. Here’s how I do it:
- Pat cauliflower dry if washed well to remove excess moisture.
- Toss florets evenly with oil so they don’t clump.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan and spices last, coating each piece well.
- Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket – don’t overcrowd! Cook in batches if needed.
- Shake or toss the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning.
Following these steps keeps the cauliflower crispy, golden, and full of flavor every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I recommend this because it cooks the cauliflower evenly and makes it crispy without much oil.
- Mixing bowls – Useful for tossing the cauliflower with oil and seasonings for an even coating.
- Measuring spoons and cup – Helps you get the seasonings just right for perfect flavor.
- Silicone spatula or tongs – Great for tossing and handling the cauliflower safely in the hot air fryer.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use shredded cheddar or mozzarella instead of Parmesan for a different cheesy taste.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat if you like spicy food.
- Mix in chopped cooked bacon or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs like chives or basil after cooking to brighten the dish.
Air Fryer Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to cook in the air fryer, so you’ll have a delicious side dish ready in around 20 minutes total. Easy and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it warm up for about 5 minutes. This helps the cauliflower start cooking right away and get nice and crispy.
2. Toss Cauliflower with Olive Oil
Place your cauliflower florets in a large bowl and drizzle with the olive oil. Toss everything together gently so each piece gets coated in oil.
3. Add Parmesan and Seasonings
In a small bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture over the cauliflower and toss gently again, making sure every floret is covered with cheese and spices.
4. Air Fry the Cauliflower
Arrange the coated cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding so the air can circulate and make it crispy. You might need to cook in batches. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking or tossing the basket halfway through to brown the cauliflower evenly.
5. Serve and Garnish
Once golden and crispy, transfer the cauliflower to a serving dish. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if you like for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Serve warm as a tasty side or snack, with your favorite dipping sauce if you want.
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but be sure to thaw and pat it dry well to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent crispiness. Fresh cauliflower usually works best for optimal texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to maintain the crispiness rather than using a microwave.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix before tossing the cauliflower for a nice spicy kick.
What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?
If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or ground nuts like cashews for a cheesy flavor. Otherwise, shredded cheddar or mozzarella are tasty alternatives.