30-Minute Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower
Crispy air-fried cauliflower florets coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce combining mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and honey. This crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish delivers restaurant-quality results with less oil than traditional frying. The three-step breading process creates an irresistibly crunchy exterior while keeping the cauliflower tender inside. Perfect for game day, parties, or as a flavorful vegetarian option that even meat-lovers will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- ½ cup all-purpose flourgluten-free flour1:1gluten-freegluten-free
For gluten-free version
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoons hot sauce, adjust to taste
Instructions
- 1
Preheat air fryer to 400°F according to manufacturer's instructions
- 2
Season cauliflower florets with salt and pepper in large bowl
- 3
Dredge each floret in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere
- 4
Place breaded florets in air fryer basket in single layer without touching
- 5
Air fry for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and crispy, shaking basket halfway through
- 6
Mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, honey, and hot sauce in bowl while cauliflower cooks
- 7
Transfer cooked cauliflower to large bowl and toss with Bang Bang sauce until well coated
- 8
Serve immediately
Tips
Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, which prevents proper crisping.
Press breadcrumbs firmly onto florets to ensure they adhere during cooking.
Adjust Bang Bang sauce heat level by varying the amount of hot sauce to your preference.
Good to Know
Best served immediately for optimal crispiness. Leftovers can be stored in refrigerator for 2 days and reheated in air fryer.
Cauliflower can be breaded up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerated before air frying.
Serve immediately while hot and crispy for best texture and flavor.
Common Mistakes
Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket to avoid steaming instead of crisping.
Press breadcrumbs firmly to avoid them falling off during cooking.
Substitutions
Vegan Options
Gluten-Free Swaps
For gluten-free version
FAQ
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs for the regular versions. The recipe works equally well with these substitutions.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use vegan egg substitute, vegan mayo, and replace honey with maple syrup or agave. The flavor and texture remain excellent with these swaps.