Air Fryer Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower is a quick and tasty way to enjoy your veggies. The cauliflower comes out crispy on the outside with just the right amount of cheesy, golden parmesan coating. It’s a simple mix of cauliflower florets, a little olive oil, parmesan cheese, and some basic seasonings that turn this humble veggie into something really special.
I love making this because it’s so easy and fast—using the air fryer means you get that perfect roasted crispiness without heating up the whole kitchen. Plus, it’s a great side dish that even kids seem to enjoy, which is always a win in my book. A little tip: make sure to toss the cauliflower well with the parmesan mixture so every piece gets coated nicely and comes out perfectly crunchy.
This roasted cauliflower pairs well with almost any meal—serve it alongside grilled chicken or a simple pasta dish. I also like to sprinkle a bit of extra parmesan and some fresh parsley on top just before serving to add a pop of color and flavor. It’s my go-to when I want something warm, cheesy, and healthy all at once!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Fresh cauliflower florets work best for this recipe. If you can’t find fresh, frozen florets will do, but pat them dry before cooking to avoid sogginess.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps to crisp the cauliflower and carry the flavors. You can substitute with avocado or vegetable oil if you prefer a milder taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a lovely nutty, salty crunch. If you’re avoiding dairy, try nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor.
Spices: Garlic powder and paprika add depth. Feel free to swap paprika for smoked paprika for a smokier hint or add a pinch of chili powder for some heat.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note at the end. You can use fresh basil, cilantro, or omit it if you don’t have any on hand.
How Do You Get Cauliflower Crispy and Golden in the Air Fryer?
Getting that perfect crisp outside and tender inside is all about even coating and air fryer technique. Here’s what I do:
- Preheat the air fryer to ensure the cauliflower starts cooking immediately and crisps up.
- Cut the cauliflower into evenly sized pieces so they cook uniformly.
- Toss cauliflower well with oil to help the seasoning stick and to encourage crisping.
- Coat generously with Parmesan and spices, making sure each piece is covered.
- Cook in a single layer to let hot air circulate around each floret.
- Shake or stir halfway through cooking to brown evenly on all sides.
Following these steps makes the cauliflower crunchy, cheesy, and delicious every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I recommend this since it helps get the cauliflower crispy without deep frying.
- Mixing bowls – useful for tossing the cauliflower with oil and seasonings.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to keep your ingredients just right.
- Small bowl – for mixing the Parmesan and spices separately.
- Spatula or tongs – handy for tossing and transferring the cauliflower.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Spicy kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to add some heat.
- Herb boost: Use fresh thyme, basil, or chives instead of parsley for different fresh flavors.
- Cheese twist: Substitute Parmesan with shredded mozzarella or cheddar for a gooey finish.
- Protein boost: Toss in cooked bacon bits or crumbled crispy sausage for added heartiness.
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a slight smoky flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and around 12-15 minutes to cook in the air fryer. Overall, you’ll have a delicious, crispy side dish ready in under 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Turn your air fryer on to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes. This helps the cauliflower crisp up nicely.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower
Place the cauliflower florets in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss well to coat all florets evenly.
3. Add Seasoning
In a small bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this mixture over the cauliflower and toss again until all pieces are well covered in the cheesy seasoning.
4. Air Fry the Cauliflower
Arrange the coated cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook in batches so the pieces don’t overcrowd and steam. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket once halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. Serve and Garnish
When the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy on the edges, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Transfer to a plate, sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like, and serve warm.
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower florets, but make sure to thaw and drain them well first to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent crispiness in the air fryer.
How Should I Store Leftover Roasted Cauliflower?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to regain crispiness before serving.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a pinch of chili powder to the Parmesan mixture before air frying to give the cauliflower a nice spicy kick.
Do I Need to Preheat the Air Fryer?
Preheating helps the cauliflower cook evenly and get crispy faster, so it’s recommended to preheat your air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding the florets.