Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Ready in just 19 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or quick meal prep.
Low-carb and keto-friendly: With only 4 net carbs per serving, this recipe fits into a keto or low-carb diet without compromising on flavor.
Crispy and flavorful: The air fryer gives the cauliflower a crisp texture, while the garlic parmesan sauce adds a savory, buttery richness.
Versatile side dish: Perfect as a side to almost any main dish, this cauliflower pairs well with chicken, steak, or seafood.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 head cauliflower, about 4 cups
Spray oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons parmesan
Salt and pepper

Directions

Preheat the air fryer to 390°F for 3 minutes.
While preheating, spray the cauliflower with oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Place the cauliflower into the air fryer basket and lightly spray with more oil. Cook for 8 minutes.
Shake the basket well, then cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and crispy on the outside.
In a bowl, mix together the melted butter and parmesan cheese.
Once the cauliflower is done cooking, toss it into the garlic parmesan sauce and coat it well.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 (1-cup servings)
Prep time: 4 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 19 minutes

Variations

Crispier cauliflower: If you prefer a crispier texture, add the parmesan before cooking instead of after.
Herbs and spices: Experiment with adding herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the garlic parmesan sauce for extra flavor.
Vegan option: Use plant-based butter and vegan parmesan to make this dish vegan-friendly.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftover cauliflower in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 350°F to maintain the crispy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

While fresh cauliflower works best for this recipe, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using it in the air fryer to avoid excess moisture.

How do I make sure the cauliflower is crispy?

The key to crispy cauliflower is making sure it’s lightly sprayed with oil before cooking. You can also increase the cooking time slightly if you prefer a crunchier texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While it’s best served immediately, you can prepare the cauliflower ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp it up.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the cauliflower in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even crisp.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Air Fryer Parmesan Cauliflower is naturally gluten-free.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute parmesan with other cheeses such as pecorino romano, asiago, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.

How can I make this spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic parmesan sauce for an extra kick.

How do I know when the cauliflower is done?

The cauliflower is done when it is tender inside and crispy on the outside. A fork should easily go through the pieces, and the edges should be slightly browned.

Can I use olive oil instead of spray oil?

Yes, olive oil is a great substitute for spray oil. Just drizzle it over the cauliflower before seasoning.

How many carbs are in a serving of this dish?

Each serving contains 4 net carbs, making it a perfect low-carb option for keto or other low-carb diets.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Parmesan Cauliflower is an easy, quick, and flavorful side dish that will complement any meal. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or just looking to enjoy a delicious and healthy side, this dish is a must-try. The air fryer ensures crispy texture while the garlic parmesan sauce delivers savory goodness. Serve it up tonight and enjoy a side dish that’s both nutritious and irresistible!