Bangers & Mash Cauliflower Bites: Air Fryer Comfort Food

Craving air fryer cauliflower? These 'Bangers & Mash' cauliflower bites are a comforting, healthy twist on pub grub! Crispy, flavourful, & ready in minutes. Get the recipe! ... Comfort Classics
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever fancy cauliflower in air fryer ? Honestly, this recipe brings the pub grub vibes home! We're talking savory, slightly mustardy, and totally comforting.
Brief Overview
This "bangers & mash cauliflower bites" recipe is a fun twist on a british classic. it's dead easy. this recipe is perfect for beginners and takes under 35 minutes from start to finish.
This recipe will feed about 4 people.
Main Benefits
This air fryer cauliflower recipe is a healthier way to enjoy those cozy flavors. air fryer recipes healthy are my jam! it's perfect for a quick weeknight health dinner recipes or as a side to your sunday roast.
This cauliflower is special because it brings that sage and onion stuffing taste without all the fuss.
Craving Some Bangers and Mash?
Right, let's get into the nitty-gritty. This isn't your nan’s boiled cauliflower, mind you! This air fryer cauliflower recipe takes the humble cauli and transforms it.
Spice Up Your Life (with Sage and Onion!)
We’re talking sage and onion cauliflower , reminiscent of a good ol' british stuffing. i'm using dried herbs because, let's be honest, who has fresh sage lying around all the time? it's about keeping things simple.
But feel free to use fresh ones.
Crispy, Golden Goodness
Imagine the crispy air fryer cauliflower texture, golden brown and slightly charred. the air fryer works its magic, getting that crunch we all crave.
If you're after air fryer cauliflower bites , these are ideal.
Why I Love Air Fryer Vegetable Recipes
One of the reasons i love air fryer vegetable recipes is the speed. it's quicker than roasting, and cleanup is a breeze.
These are some easy air fryer recipes that bring comfort to any table!. this recipe is not only for everyone, there are vegan air fryer recipes that everyone can enjoy.
Bangers & Mash Cauliflower Bites: Air Fryer Comfort Food Recipe Card

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Show on the Road!
Right then, let's talk about what you'll actually need to make this cauliflower in air fryer masterpiece. honestly, it’s all pretty basic.
Nothing too cheffy, i promise! i mean, who has time for that? this is all about delicious, easy air fryer recipes , right? plus, air fryer recipes healthy are always a win.
Main Ingredients: The Stars of Our Show
- 1 large head of cauliflower ( approx. 700g / 1.5 lbs ), cut into florets. Go for a firm, white head. No brown spots allowed!
- 2 tbsp olive oil ( 30 ml ). Good quality stuff makes a difference, you know?
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried sage. It's key for that "Bangers & Mash" vibe.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika.
- 1/4 tsp mustard powder.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don't be shy!
- Optional: 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavour). Trust me, it's good.
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish.
You know? My nan used to say "fresh herbs make everything better". She was right, bless her!
Seasoning Notes: Spice Up Your Life (and Your Cauliflower)
Okay, so this spice combo is chef's kiss . the sage and onion is classic british comfort food. if you're feeling adventurous, a pinch of chili flakes adds a nice kick.
Also, if you're not into the sage, try rosemary and thyme. that mediterranean mix works a treat. for quick substitutions, use garlic salt instead of garlic powder and salt.
Equipment Needed: Keeping it Simple, Silly!
- Air Fryer. Obvs!
- Large Mixing Bowl. For tossing the cauliflower.
- Measuring spoons and cups.
- Silicone Tongs (optional, for easy handling). I find these save my fingers from getting burnt!
If you don’t have an air fryer yet, what are you waiting for?. seriously though, you can kind of roast these in the oven but the crispy air fryer cauliflower texture is just amazing.
If you don't have tongs you can use a spatula as an alternative. remember the best air fryer cauliflower bites are well coated in all the spices so take your time and make sure it looks evenly coated! easy air fryer recipes like this one make eating your veggies, like, actually enjoyable.
Fancy a quick health dinner recipes ? these vegan air fryer recipes are where it's at!

Bangers & Mash Cauliflower Bites: Air Fryer Comfort Food
Honestly, who doesn't love bangers and mash ? but sometimes, you fancy something a bit lighter, you know? that's where these cauliflower in air fryer bites come in! they’re like a healthier, quicker version of that classic pub grub.
It's a perfect recipe to add in your air fryer recipes healthy list.
This recipe is dead easy, even if you're a complete newbie to the air fryer game. we're talking crispy air fryer cauliflower with all the comforting flavours of sage and onion.
Think of it as sage and onion cauliflower but in bite-sized form! this is a real gem from the air fryer vegetable recipes world.
It’s also a great way to get your veg in.
Prep Like a Pro
Essential mise en place first things first, let's get our act together! chop one large head of cauliflower into florets.
We’re talking about 700g/1.5lbs. then, measure out all your spices. honestly, being organised makes cooking so much easier.
Time-saving organization tips To save time, I like to mix all the spices in a bowl beforehand. That way, you're not scrambling around when the cauliflower is ready.
Safety reminders Just a quick reminder: air fryers can get hot! Be careful when handling the basket. Don't forget to use oven gloves.
Getting Crispy: Step-by-Step
- Rinse those florets! Pat them dry with kitchen roll. This is key for crispy air fryer cauliflower and makes sure they don’t steam.
- In a bowl, whisk 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried sage, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp mustard powder, salt, pepper (to taste), and 1 tbsp of nutritional yeast (if you're feeling fancy!).
- Chuck in the cauliflower florets. Toss them until they are evenly coated in that spice mixture.
- Preheat your air fryer to 200° C ( 400° F) . This is where it differs from all those buffalo cauliflower recipes .
- Arrange the coated cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if you must.
- Air fry for 15- 20 minutes , shaking the basket halfway. You want them golden brown.
- Test for doneness. Poke a floret with a fork. It should be tender.
- Serve immediately! Garnish with fresh parsley if you are feeling posh.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Bites
- Don't Overcrowd: This is the golden rule for air fryers. Cook in batches!
- Shake It! Seriously, shaking halfway is a game-changer for even cooking.
- Spice It Up!: Adjust the spices to your taste. Fancy some heat? Add a pinch of chilli flakes.
Honestly, it is a game-changer and can lead to tons of amazing and easy air fryer recipes .
One common mistake? Not drying the cauliflower properly. Trust me, it makes a huge difference!
You can even make the spice mix ahead of time. thinking ahead? yes, please! this could be a nice health dinner recipes .
It can also be considered a vegan air fryer recipes if you don't use butter.
Recipe Notes for Bangers & Mash Cauliflower Bites
Right, so you've got the lowdown on my bangers & mash cauliflower bites . honestly, this air fryer cauliflower recipe is a game-changer.
It's like a cheat code for healthy comfort food, innit? here are a few extra bits and bobs to help you nail it.
Serving Like a Pro: Get Your Plating On
These crispy air fryer cauliflower bites are proper versatile. think about presentation. a simple white plate lets the golden cauliflower shine.
Garnish with fresh parsley; it adds a pop of colour. they are amazing served right away, but still pretty good if they get cold! want that full bangers & mash vibe? serve alongside a dollop of creamy mashed potatoes, the real kind.
Drizzle with dijon mustard mayo. blimey, it's good!
Storage: Keep the Good Times Rolling
Got leftovers? no worries. pop them in an airtight container and into the fridge. they'll be good for about 3 days.
Reheating is easy. a quick zap in the air fryer brings them back to life, but honestly, they're tasty cold too.
I wouldn't freeze them, they get a bit soggy, you know?
Variations: Mix It Up, Mate!
Fancy something different? for spicy buffalo cauliflower recipes , toss the cooked cauliflower in your favourite buffalo wing sauce. want it vegan? easy peasy.
Swap out the optional nutritional yeast for a blend of ground cashews, garlic powder, and salt, giving a vegan parmesan .
You can adapt the herbs, too.
Nutrition: Good For You, Guv'nor!
Each serving clocks in at around 120 calories. you're getting a good dose of protein (5g), fibre (4g) and healthy fats.
Cauliflower is packed with vitamins. this is definitely one of those air fryer recipes healthy . it's a great way to get your five-a-day while enjoying proper comfort food.
It's a great contender to health dinner recipes and is one of my favorite air fryer vegetable recipes !
So there you have it. my easy air fryer recipes are designed to take the stress out of cooking. give this sage and onion cauliflower a go, and tell me what you think! i know you will love these air fryer cauliflower bites as much as i do! you got this, i believe in you!.

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make sure my cauliflower gets crispy in the air fryer? No one wants soggy cauli!
Getting crispy cauliflower in the air fryer is all about moisture control and airflow. First, make sure you thoroughly dry the cauliflower florets after washing them – patting them down with a clean kitchen towel works wonders. Secondly, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; work in batches if you need to, to allow hot air to circulate freely around each piece. Think of it like trying to get a good tan on a crowded beach – you need space!
Can I use frozen cauliflower for this air fryer recipe, or does it have to be fresh?
While fresh cauliflower is ideal for the best texture, you can use frozen cauliflower in the air fryer in a pinch. However, frozen cauliflower contains more moisture, so you'll need to take extra steps. Make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before tossing it with the spices. You might also need to increase the cooking time slightly to achieve that desired crispiness. It's a bit like trying to iron a damp shirt - it takes longer to get it just right!
What other spices or seasonings can I use on cauliflower in air fryer? I'm looking for a flavour boost!
The beauty of air fryer cauliflower is its versatility! For a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of chilli flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the spice mix. You could also experiment with Italian herbs like oregano and basil for a Mediterranean twist. If you're feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of curry powder or even a drizzle of sriracha after cooking can add a fantastic depth of flavour. Think of your spice rack as your personal "spice girls" – mix and match to find your perfect harmony!
How long does air fried cauliflower last, and how should I store it? Can I meal prep this?
Air fried cauliflower is best enjoyed fresh for optimal crispness, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be aware it will lose some of its initial crispness. To reheat, pop it back into the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp it up again – avoid the microwave, as it will make it soggy. You can certainly meal prep by chopping and seasoning the cauliflower in advance, storing it in the fridge until you're ready to air fry.
Is cauliflower in air fryer healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?
Absolutely! Air fryer cauliflower is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy this cruciferous vegetable. Compared to frying, air frying requires much less oil, reducing the overall fat content. Cauliflower is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a nutritious addition to your diet. Plus, it's low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those watching their carb intake - a win-win, really!
My air fryer isn't preheating - what's wrong and what do I do to cook perfect cauliflower in air fryer?
Not all air fryers require preheating, so definitely check your manual first! Some models automatically preheat or don't have a preheat function at all. If your air fryer should preheat and isn't, make sure it's properly plugged in and that the timer is set correctly. If it still won't preheat, consult the manufacturer's instructions or consider contacting customer support – it might be a technical issue. Cooking the cauliflower without preheating may require slightly longer cooking time, so keep an eye on it.