Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower Steaks

Golden, caramelized, and full of smoky-savory goodness—these cauliflower steaks are a game-changer!

Say goodbye, dull veggie sides—these Air Fryer Cauliflower Steaks are set to take your plant-based culinary game to a whole new level! Picture hearty, meaty slices of cauliflower, their rims caramelized to golden crisp in the air fryer as their centers become meltingly soft—nearly buttery in texture. Each one of these golden-brown steaks derives its rich, irresistible flavor from an easy yet masterful combination of smoky paprika and garlic powder, giving rise to a savory crust that’ll have you forgetting you’re having vegetables.

What sets these cauliflower steaks apart is their wow factor and versatility. They’re:

👉 Naturally vegan (simply omit the butter or substitute with plant-based butter)

👉 Surprisingly filling—the thick cut provides a hearty, steak-like texture

👉 Ideal for wowing guests (they’re pretty and taste gourmet!)

👉 Meal-prep friendly (reheat beautifully in the air fryer)

The optional drizzle of melted butter at the finish transports them from excellent to sublime, providing a rich opulence that complements the smoky spices perfectly. But even without it, these steaks are so full of flavor, you won’t even notice the dairy is missing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✨ Perfect texture: Crispy outside, tender inside—no mushy cauliflower here!

🌿 Vegan adaptable: Skip the butter or use plant-based butter.

⏳ Ready in 15 minutes: Faster than roasting in the oven.

🍽️ Versatile: Serve as a main, side, or even in sandwiches/wraps.

🔥 Bold smoky flavor: Paprika and garlic take it to the next level.

Ingredients

(Serves 3)

For the Cauliflower Steaks

👉 1 large head of cauliflower (cut into 1-inch thick steaks)

👉 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)

👉 1 tsp garlic powder

👉 1 tsp smoky paprika (or regular paprika + pinch of cayenne)

👉 ½ tsp salt

👉 ½ tsp black pepper

For Serving (Optional)

👉 4 tbsp melted butter (or vegan butter)

👉 Fresh parsley or chives, chopped

👉 Lemon wedges (for brightness)

Instructions

📌 Step 1: Prep the Cauliflower

👉 Trim leaves from the cauliflower, keeping the stem intact.

👉 Slice into 1-inch thick “steaks” (you’ll get 2-3 from the center; save florets for roasting later).

📌 Step 2: Season

👉 In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

👉 Brush both sides of each steak generously with the spiced oil.

📌 Step 3: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection

👉 Preheat air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3 minutes.

👉 Place steaks in a single layer (work in batches if needed).

👉 Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until deep golden and crispy.

📌 Step 4: Serve

👉 Drizzle with melted butter (optional but delicious).

👉 Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon.

Serving Suggestions

🍛 Main course: Over creamy polenta or quinoa.

🥗 Salad topper: Slice and add to a kale Caesar salad.

🍔 Sandwich-style: Serve in a toasted bun with vegan aioli.

Storage Tips

🗄️ Fridge: Keeps for 3 days (reheat in air fryer to re-crisp).

❄️ Freezer: Not recommended (cauliflower gets soggy).

Frequently Asked Questions

💬 Can I bake these?

Yes! Bake at 220°C (425°F) for 20-25 mins, flipping halfway.

💬 No air fryer?

Pan-fry in a hot skillet with oil.

💬 Make it spicy?

Add ¼ tsp cayenne to the seasoning mix.

Final Thoughts

These cauliflower steaks are crispy, flavorful, and shockingly easy—the ultimate way to make veggies the star of the show!

👉 Tag @VeganEatsAndTreats if you make it—I’ll feature your creation!