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Close-up of crispy breaded cauliflower tacos with toppings.

Air Fryer Breaded Cauliflower Tacos

Valerie
Craving something crispy, healthy, and full of flavor? These air fryer breaded cauliflower tacos are a game-changer! With perfectly seasoned, crunchy cauliflower as the star ingredient, these tacos are a healthy and satisfying meatless alternative. Plus, by using an air fryer, you cut down on oil while keeping all the crispy goodness. They're quick, easy to prepare, and customizable with your favorite toppings!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 2 tacos
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • For the Breaded Cauliflower:
  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 1 cup bread crumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil or cooking spray
  • For the Tacos:
  • 8 soft tortillas (corn or flour)
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • ½ cup salsa
  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Optional: Vegan or regular sour cream, shredded cheese

Ingredients
  

  • For the Breaded Cauliflower:
  • 1 medium head of cauliflower cut into bite-sized florets
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
  • 1 cup bread crumbs panko or regular
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil or cooking spray
  • For the Tacos:
  • 8 soft tortillas corn or flour
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
  • 1 avocado sliced
  • ½ cup salsa
  • ½ red onion thinly sliced
  • Fresh cilantro chopped
  • Optional: Vegan or regular sour cream shredded cheese

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Cauliflower:
  • Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
  • Rinse and pat them dry with a clean towel.
  • Create the Breading Station:
  • In a bowl, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  • In a second bowl, whisk water or plant-based milk.
  • In a third bowl, place the bread crumbs.
  • Coat the Cauliflower:
  • Dip each cauliflower floret in the flour mixture, then into the milk, and finally into the bread crumbs.
  • Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer:
  • Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  • Lightly spray the basket with oil to prevent sticking.
  • Cook the Cauliflower:
  • Place the breaded cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  • Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  • Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.
  • Warm the Tortillas:
  • Heat tortillas in a skillet or wrap them in foil and warm in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 minutes.
  • Assemble the Tacos:
  • Place a layer of shredded lettuce or cabbage on each tortilla.
  • Add several pieces of breaded cauliflower.
  • Top with avocado slices, salsa, red onion, and a sprinkle of cilantro.
  • Drizzle with your favorite sauce, such as spicy mayo, chipotle sauce, or sour cream.

Notes

For extra crispiness, lightly spray the breaded cauliflower with oil before air frying.
You can prepare the cauliflower in advance and reheat it in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes.
Experiment with flavors by tossing the cooked cauliflower in hot sauce for buffalo-style tacos.
Serve these tacos with Mexican rice, black bean salad, or chips with guacamole for a complete meal.
Keyword Air Fryer, Air Fryer Breaded Cauliflower Tacos Recipe, Cauliflower, TACOS