Air Fryer Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a crispy, cheesy twist on a simple vegetable that’s full of flavor. The cauliflower gets golden and crunchy on the outside thanks to the air fryer, while the Parmesan adds a salty, nutty kick that makes every bite irresistible. It’s an easy way to make veggies feel like a special treat.
I love making this dish when I want a quick and tasty side that doesn’t take much effort. Using the air fryer keeps the cauliflower perfectly tender inside with a nice crunch outside, and the Parmesan makes it feel like a little celebration on my plate. It’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to because it’s quick and everyone always asks for seconds.
My favorite way to enjoy this Parmesan roasted cauliflower is right out of the air fryer, warm and crispy. It’s great on its own as a snack or paired with your favorite protein for a simple meal. I’ve even tossed it into salads or mixed it with pasta for extra flavor. This one’s a win when I want something quick, tasty, and a bit different from the usual roasted veggies.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower works best for this recipe. Try to cut the florets evenly so they cook at the same rate. If you’re short on time, frozen cauliflower can be used, but thaw and dry it well first.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice flavor and helps the coating stick. You can substitute avocado oil or any light-tasting oil if preferred.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan gives a sharp, nutty taste and helps create a crispy crust. If you want a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast is a great alternative with a cheesy flavor.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and smoked paprika add depth and a mild smoky taste. Feel free to swap smoked paprika with regular paprika or add chili powder for some heat.
How Do You Get the Cauliflower Crispy and Evenly Cooked in the Air Fryer?
To get crispy Parmesan cauliflower, the key is not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Here’s how:
- Preheat the air fryer to make sure the cauliflower starts cooking immediately with crispy edges.
- Cut cauliflower into similar-sized florets for even cooking.
- Toss cauliflower well with oil and cheese mixture so every piece is coated.
- Arrange florets in a single layer with space between pieces. You might need to cook in batches.
- Shake or toss the basket halfway through cooking to brown all sides evenly.
Following these steps helps ensure your cauliflower comes out tender inside with a golden, crispy Parmesan crust every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I prefer this because it cooks quickly and makes the cauliflower crispy without much oil.
- Mixing bowls – useful for tossing the cauliflower with oil and seasonings easily.
- Measuring spoons and cups – ensure accurate seasoning and cheese amounts.
- Spatula or tongs – handy for tossing and removing the cauliflower from the air fryer.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Kick up the spice with crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a heated twist.
- Mozzarella or cheddar cheese can be used instead of Parmesan for a different cheesy flavor.
- Sprinkle chopped bacon or sun-dried tomatoes on top after cooking for extra texture and flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice or zest before serving to brighten the dish.
Air Fryer Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-18 minutes to cook in the air fryer, making it a quick side dish or snack option in under 30 minutes total.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Cauliflower:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, wash and cut your cauliflower into medium-sized florets to ensure even cooking.
2. Toss Cauliflower with Oil:
Place the cauliflower florets in a large bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the florets and toss until all pieces are lightly coated with oil.
3. Mix Parmesan and Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mix so the seasoning is well blended.
4. Coat the Cauliflower:
Sprinkle the Parmesan and seasoning mixture evenly over the oiled cauliflower florets. Toss gently again to ensure each floret is covered with the cheesy seasoning.
5. Air Fry the Cauliflower:
Place the coated cauliflower in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid crowding to help the cauliflower crisp well. Air fry for 15-18 minutes, shaking or tossing the basket halfway through so the florets brown evenly.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once cooked and nicely golden, transfer the cauliflower to a serving plate. Sprinkle with finely chopped fresh parsley, if using, and enjoy it warm right away. It’s great as a snack, a side dish, or even tossed into salads.
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower florets, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry completely before tossing with oil and Parmesan. This helps achieve a crispy texture instead of soggy.
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 help restore the crispiness.
Can I Substitute Parmesan Cheese?
Absolutely! You can use Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a similar flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast works well although it won’t brown as much.
Is it Necessary to Preheat the Air Fryer?
Preheating helps the cauliflower cook evenly and develop a nice crispy coating, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it—just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
