Get ready to fall in love with a snack that’s as satisfying as it is simple with this Airfryer Cauliflower and Cheese Bites Recipe. These little golden rounds pack a punch of flavor and texture, combining tender cauliflower with gooey melted cheese, all crisply cooked to perfection in the airfryer. Whether you need a quick appetizer for guests or a wholesome finger food for family movie night, this recipe delivers irresistible bites that are both comforting and wholesome. Best of all, they come together in under 20 minutes and offer a delicious way to sneak more veggies onto your plate without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward staples that work together to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition in your Airfryer Cauliflower and Cheese Bites Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role, from binding the mixture to adding that cheesy richness and just the right amount of savory kick.
- Cauliflower (1 head, steamed and finely chopped): The star veggie providing a mild, slightly nutty base packed with nutrients and fiber.
- Garlic granules (1 tsp): Adds a gentle garlic flavor that elevates the taste without overpowering.
- Oat flour (1 cup): Blended oats that act as a gluten-free binder, keeping the bites tender yet sturdy.
- Mild cheddar cheese or goat cheese (1/2 cup): Brings creamy, melty texture and rich flavor to the recipe.
- Egg (1): Helps bind all the ingredients together for perfect bite-sized shapes.
- Black pepper (to season): Adds a hint of warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile.
- Olive oil (a light drizzle): For the perfect crisp finish when airfried, bringing golden edges and an inviting aroma.
How to Make Airfryer Cauliflower and Cheese Bites Recipe
Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients
Start by gathering the steamed cauliflower that’s been chopped finely and squeezed of any excess moisture — this is key to avoiding soggy bites. In a bowl, add the cauliflower along with the garlic granules, oat flour, cheese, egg, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly with a spoon until the mixture is evenly combined and easy to shape.
Step 2: Shape Into Bites
Now comes the fun part! Use a tablespoon to scoop the mixture and then shape it into rounds or tot-like shapes with your hands. The size is perfect for snacking, so aim for bite-sized. Place them neatly on a plate, making sure they aren’t touching to allow for even cooking.
Step 3: Add Olive Oil for Crispiness
Lightly drizzle each bite with a small amount of olive oil. This step might seem simple, but it’s what transforms these bites from soft to satisfyingly crunchy on the outside once airfried.
Step 4: Airfry to Golden Perfection
Set your airfryer to 200ºC and cook the shaped bites for 8 to 10 minutes. Halfway through, shake the basket gently or turn the bites to ensure even crisping. Keep an eye on them — you want beautifully golden edges without overcooking.
How to Serve Airfryer Cauliflower and Cheese Bites Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of color and fresh flavor that complements the cheesy richness perfectly. You can also dust with a little smoked paprika to add a subtle smoky touch.
Side Dishes
These bites shine when paired with sweet, fresh strawberries that provide a lovely contrast to their savory profile. For something heartier, serve alongside a crisp, green salad or a zesty dipping sauce like garlic aioli or a tangy yogurt dip.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party platter, arrange your Airfryer Cauliflower and Cheese Bites Recipe around a colorful board with assorted dips, nuts, and sliced veggies. You can also thread them onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and olives for a fun, finger-friendly presentation that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, simply store the bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Their texture might soften a bit, but they still make a great snack or quick addition to meals.
Freezing
These bites freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep. Lay them out on a tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. This way, you’ll always have a healthy snack ready to pop in the airfryer.
Reheating
For reheating, return the bites to the airfryer at 180ºC for 4-5 minutes until they regain their crisp edges and are warmed through. Reheating in the airfryer keeps the texture much better than microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use another type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While mild cheddar and goat cheese work wonderfully, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, feta, or even a sharper cheese depending on your taste preferences.
Is oat flour necessary, or can I substitute it?
You can substitute oat flour with almond flour or regular all-purpose flour if you’re not avoiding gluten. The oats keep the bites nutty and fluffy, but all-purpose flour will give you a slightly different texture.
Do I need to steam the cauliflower first?
Yes, steaming the cauliflower softens it and removes excess moisture so your bites hold together well. Raw cauliflower would be too crunchy and result in a crumbly mixture.
How can I make these bites vegan?
Swap the egg for a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) and use vegan cheese alternatives to make this Airfryer Cauliflower and Cheese Bites Recipe completely plant-based.
Can I bake these instead of airfrying?
If you don’t have an airfryer, baking at 200ºC for about 12-15 minutes on a lined baking sheet will also crisp the bites nicely, though they might take a little longer and be less crispy than airfried ones.
Final Thoughts
This Airfryer Cauliflower and Cheese Bites Recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, flavorful, and veggie-packed snack. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these bites offer a deliciously crispy experience with every nibble. Grab your cauliflower, fire up that airfryer, and prepare to impress yourself with how easy and tasty healthy snacking can be!
Print
Airfryer Cauliflower and Cheese Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy and flavorful Airfryer Cauliflower and Cheese tots made with steamed cauliflower, oat flour, and mild cheddar cheese. These bite-sized snacks are quick to prepare, air-fried to perfection for a healthy twist, and make an excellent appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
Cauliflower Mixture
- 1 head cauliflower, steamed and finely chopped (with liquid squeezed out)
- 1 tsp garlic granules
- 1 cup oat flour (blended oats)
- 1/2 cup mild cheddar cheese or goat cheese
- 1 large egg
- Black pepper, to season
For Cooking
- Drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the finely chopped steamed cauliflower, garlic granules, oat flour, cheese, egg, and black pepper. Use a spoon to stir everything together thoroughly until fully combined into a cohesive mixture.
- Form the Tots: Take a tablespoonful of the cauliflower mixture and shape it into small rounds or tot shapes using your hands. Place the shaped tots onto a plate ready for cooking.
- Prepare for Airfrying: Lightly drizzle a very small amount of olive oil over the shaped tots. This will help achieve a golden crisp texture while air frying.
- Air Fry: Place the tots into the airfryer basket in a single layer and cook at 200ºC (392ºF) for 8–10 minutes or until they turn golden and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Remove from the airfryer and serve immediately with a dip of your choice and a side of fresh strawberries for a delicious snack or appetizer.
Notes
- Make sure the cauliflower is well drained to prevent soggy tots.
- Use oat flour or blended oats as a gluten-free alternative to regular flour.
- For a stronger cheese flavor, try sharp cheddar instead of mild.
- Adjust cooking time slightly based on your airfryer model for best crispiness.
- These tots freeze well – flash freeze before air frying and cook straight from frozen adding a few extra minutes.
