Buffalo Cauliflower Steak Recipe – Air Fryer Baked

Buffalo cauliflower steaks bring the best of bold flavors and plant-based nutrition to the table.

Perfect for game day or as a spicy entrée, these buffalo cauliflower steaks satisfy cravings while staying light and vegan-friendly.

In this article, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to make buffalo cauliflower steaks, along with tips for variations and sides to complete your meal.

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Ingredients List

For the Cauliflower Steaks:

• 1 large cauliflower head
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Buffalo Sauce:

• ¼ cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot) or add honey instead for a sweet and spicy flavor.
• 2 tablespoons melted vegan butter
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional, for a hint of sweetness)

Serving:

• Vegan ranch dressing or blue cheese crumbles
• Celery sticks and carrot sticks
• Fresh chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Step-By-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Start by selecting a large, fresh cauliflower head. Rinse it well, and then pat it dry with a clean towel. Remove any green leaves and trim the stem, but leave enough of the core intact to keep the steaks together.

Step 2: Slice the Cauliflower

Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the cauliflower into thick “steaks.” Each slice should be about 1 to 1½ inches thick. You’ll typically get two to three full steaks from one cauliflower, along with some smaller florets. Save these florets for roasting along with the steaks or use them in another recipe.

Step 3: Season the Cauliflower Steaks

Lay the cauliflower steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle this seasoned oil mixture over the steaks, using your hands or a brush to ensure an even coating. This spice mix adds the essential flavor base, giving the steaks a rich, smoky taste with just the right amount of heat.

Step 4: Roast the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the baking sheet with the seasoned cauliflower in the oven and roast for 20–25 minutes. Flip the steaks halfway through to ensure even cooking. By the end of roasting, the cauliflower should turn golden brown with crispy edges, yet tender inside.

Step 5: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

While the cauliflower roasts, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the hot sauce, melted vegan butter, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup (if using). Stir until the ingredients are well mixed, then remove from heat. The sauce should be tangy with a touch of richness from the butter, perfect for coating the cauliflower without overwhelming its flavor.

Step 6: Apply the Buffalo Sauce

Once the cauliflower finishes roasting, take it out of the oven and brush each steak generously with the buffalo sauce. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5–10 minutes, allowing the sauce to bake into the cauliflower and create a sticky, flavorful coating. Keep a close eye to prevent burning, as the sauce can caramelize quickly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the buffalo cauliflower steaks to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color. Serve each steak with a drizzle of vegan ranch dressing or blue cheese crumbles for a creamy contrast to the spicy buffalo flavor. Add celery and carrot sticks on the side to complete the dish and offer a refreshing crunch.

Tips for Perfect Buffalo Cauliflower Steaks

• Adjust the Heat: For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or opt for a hotter hot sauce. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the cayenne or mix in some vegan yogurt with the buffalo sauce to tone down the spice.
• Add a Crispy Finish: If you enjoy a crispy texture, consider adding a breadcrumb topping. After applying the buffalo sauce, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over each steak and bake for another few minutes until they turn golden brown.
• Make it Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check that all ingredients, including the hot sauce and vegan butter, meet gluten-free standards if needed.

Delicious Side Pairings and Serving Suggestions

These buffalo cauliflower steaks make a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides, especially if you’re planning for game day or a casual dinner with friends. Here are some pairing ideas to round out your meal:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet potato fries balance the heat of the cauliflower steaks and add a sweet-savory note.
2. Loaded Vegan Nachos: Keep up the game-day vibe by serving vegan nachos on the side, topped with black beans, jalapeños, and vegan cheese.
3. Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes provides a refreshing contrast to the spiciness.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn with a sprinkle of lime juice and chili powder complements the buffalo flavor nicely.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For a heartier meal, creamy garlic mashed potatoes can make this dish more filling.

Nutritional Benefits of Cauliflower Steaks

Cauliflower is a nutrient powerhouse, rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. When roasted, cauliflower retains its fiber content while developing a satisfying, almost meaty texture. This plant-based steak is a low-carb, low-calorie option that still feels substantial. Plus, the use of olive oil, vegan butter, and buffalo sauce offers a good balance of healthy fats without compromising on taste.

Variations to Try

Want to customize this recipe further? Here are a few exciting twists to explore:

1. Honey Buffalo Cauliflower: Add honey instead of maple syrup in the buffalo sauce for a sweet and spicy flavor.
2. BBQ Buffalo Cauliflower: Combine buffalo sauce with a bit of vegan BBQ sauce for a smoky, barbecue-inspired version.
3. Extra Crispy: Toss the cauliflower in a mixture of cornstarch before seasoning to create a crispier coating.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo cauliflower steaks offer a satisfying, spicy alternative to traditional buffalo wings and add a vibrant, plant-based option to any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a snack for game day or as the main star of a weeknight dinner, this dish will impress even the most devoted wing fans. With the perfect blend of spices, tangy sauce, and creamy dressing, every bite brings a dynamic balance of flavors.