Air Fryer Cauliflower Steaks
Thick cauliflower slabs roasted crisp and golden.
Before You Start
Cut a cauliflower into thick steaks and the air fryer turns them tender inside with golden, crisp edges. Slice through the core so they hold together, and do not skimp on the oil, which carries the spice and crisps the edges. A hearty vegetarian main.
Instructions
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1
Trim the cauliflower leaves and slice it through the core into 2 to 3 cm thick steaks, keeping them whole.
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2
Brush both sides with the oil and sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
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3
Air fry at 190°C / 375°F for 8 minutes, then carefully flip.
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4
Scatter the parmesan over and cook 8 to 10 minutes more, until tender and golden at the edges.
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5
Finish with a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of tahini.
Kit that makes this foolproof
A few inexpensive bits that get you crispier results with less mess.
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♨️ Air fryer notes
- Cook at 190°C / 375°F and preheat for 2 to 3 minutes for the crispiest result.
- Keep everything in a single layer with space around each piece. Overcrowding steams food instead of crisping it, so cook in batches if your basket is small.
- Shake or turn halfway, and check a few minutes early, since air fryers cook faster than ovens and every model runs slightly differently.
💡 Cook's tips
- Cut through the core so the steaks hold together. The loose florets can go in around them.
- Do not skip the oil. It carries the spices and helps the edges crisp.
🔀 Make it your own
- Swap parmesan for a spicy harissa or chimichurri drizzle.
- Sprinkle with dukkah or toasted seeds to serve.
📦 Storing & reheating
Keeps 2 days in the fridge. Re-crisp at 190°C for 4 minutes.
❓ Frequently asked
Do the steaks stay in one piece?
The middle slices cut through the core stay whole. End pieces break into florets, which still roast beautifully.
How do I know it is done?
A knife should slide easily into the stem and the edges should be golden, about 16 to 18 minutes total.
Adapting your own recipe? Use the oven to air fryer converter for temp and time, or the recipe scaler to halve or double this.
