Crispy Vegan Bang Bang Cauliflower

Let me just say it: Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower might be my all-time favorite way to eat cauliflower. It’s crispy, spicy, and insanely addictive. If you’re a fellow veggie snob like me where you only like your vegetables a certain way then you’re going to LOVE this recipe.

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Cauliflower is one of those blank-canvas veggies that can be transformed into something truly crave-worthy. Roasted, grilled, mashed… or in this case, air-fried to golden, crunchy perfection and smothered in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce.

Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a fun weeknight snack, or just trying to use up the cauliflower sitting in your fridge this is the recipe to make!

Table of Contents

What Is Bang Bang Cauliflower?

Think of it as cauliflower’s glow-up moment.

Bang bang cauliflower takes florets, coats them in a light batter, rolls them in crispy panko breadcrumbs, and air fries them until golden and crunchy. Then comes the magic: a spicy, creamy sauce made with vegan mayo, sriracha, and chili paste.

If you’ve ever had the bang bang shrimp at Bonefish Grill, this is the healthier, plant-based twist on that concept.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Bang Bang Cauliflower

This healthy Bang Bang Cauliflower is everything you want in a guilt-free snack crispy, spicy, and packed with flavor. Made in the air fryer, it’s a lighter alternative to traditional deep-fried versions. Whether you’re vegan, plant-based, or just craving something crunchy, this Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower delivers big taste with simple ingredients. It’s perfect for weeknights, parties, or whenever a craving hits. The texture is irresistibly crispy thanks to the panko, and the sauce adds the perfect spicy kick. If you’re looking for a flavorful and satisfying recipe, this bang bang cauliflower air fryer version is a must-try.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Dry Ingredients:

1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp garlic powder
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for the crispiest crunch!)

Fresh & Perishable:

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
1/4 cup vegan butter, melted
1/3 cup vegan mayo (I love the one from Trader Joe’s!)
1/4 cup sriracha
2-3 tbsp chili paste

For the Aioli:

1/4 cup vegan mayo
2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)

Equipment:

Air Fryer (this Ninja Foodi is my go-to!)

How to Make Bang Bang Cauliflower in the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and garlic powder. Toss in the cauliflower to coat evenly.
In a separate bowl, mix melted vegan butter, vegan mayo, and sriracha. Dip the flour-coated cauliflower florets into this sauce mixture.
In another bowl, combine panko and a pinch more garlic powder. Roll each saucy floret in the panko until fully coated.
Place in the air fryer basket (avoid overcrowding) and cook for 20-25 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Meanwhile, mix the mayo and sriracha to create your bang bang aioli dipping sauce.
Serve immediately, sprinkled with cilantro and sesame seeds if desired.

Don’t Have an Air Fryer?

No worries! You can bake the cauliflower on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. It won’t be quite as crispy but still totally delicious.

Tips for Extra Crispy Bang Bang Cauliflower

Double-bread your florets. Dip in batter, then breadcrumbs twice for extra crunch.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give them space to crisp up.
Serve immediately. They’re best hot and fresh!

How to Serve Bang Bang Cauliflower

This dish is so versatile!

Serve as a party appetizer or finger food.
Add to lettuce wraps with shredded cabbage and herbs.
Serve over jasmine rice for a light and spicy meal.
Pair with other apps like Air Fryer Peanut Butter Tofu or Buffalo Chicken Wontons.

FAQs

Can I bake the Bang Bang Cauliflower instead of using an air fryer?

Absolutely! While air frying gives the crispiest results, you can bake the cauliflower in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even crispiness.

Is this Bang Bang Cauliflower recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but it can easily be made gluten-free! Just use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Double-check that your vegan mayo and sauces are certified gluten-free too.

How spicy is this recipe, and can I adjust the heat?

It has a medium heat level thanks to the sriracha and chili paste. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce or skip the chili paste and cut back on the sriracha. Want it hotter? Add more chili paste or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Can I prepare this vegan cauliflower in advance?

You can prep the cauliflower and sauce ahead of time, but for best texture, cook and coat right before serving. If reheating, pop them back in the air fryer or oven to regain that crispy finish.

What’s the best vegan mayo for this recipe?

Any quality vegan mayo will work, but brands like Follow Your Heart or Hellmann’s Vegan are great for their creamy texture and balanced flavor, which pair well with the spicy aioli.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Cauliflower?

It’s perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even part of a main meal. Serve it over jasmine rice or in lettuce wraps for a light meal. It also pairs well with vegan fried rice, noodles, or as a party platter with other finger foods.

Craving More Cauliflower Recipes?

You’re in the right place. If you’ve got a head of cauliflower waiting in the fridge, here are some other creative and healthy ways to enjoy it:

Cauliflower Rice Burrito Bowl
A flavorful and filling plant-powered bowl loaded with cauliflower rice, beans, and fresh toppings. Perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner.

Ground Turkey Taco Bowls with Cauliflower Spanish Rice
A protein-packed taco bowl made lighter with cauliflower Spanish rice great for weeknight dinners and loaded with bold, satisfying flavors.

Final Thoughts

f you’ve been searching for a crave-worthy appetizer or snack, this Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower is your answer. It’s the perfect mix of crispy, spicy, and satisfying all while being 100% plant-based. Whether you’re a fan of the Deliciously Ella Bang Bang Cauliflower or just love trying new air fryer recipes, this version is lighter, healthier, and so easy to make. Perfect for entertaining or enjoying solo, this healthy bang bang cauliflower recipe is sure to be on repeat. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me I love seeing your kitchen wins! Give this bang bang cauliflower air fryer recipe a try and taste how irresistible clean eating can be.

Happy cooking, friends!