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In today's fast-paced world, the quest for healthy, delicious snacks has become a common pursuit for many. Enter the air fryer, a kitchen marvel that has revolutionized the way we approach snack preparation. With its ability to produce crispy, golden-brown delights without the need for excessive oil, the air fryer is perfect for creating guilt-free indulgences. Among the myriad of recipes that can be whipped up in this appliance, one stands out for its irresistible combination of flavor and nutrition: Cheesy Delight Air Fryer Cheddar Cauliflower Nuggets.

Air Fryer Cheddar Cauliflower Nuggets

Discover the perfect guilt-free snack with Cheesy Delight Air Fryer Cheddar Cauliflower Nuggets. This recipe transforms nutritious cauliflower into crispy, cheesy bites that are easy to make and full of flavor. With simple ingredients like cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, these nuggets are not only delicious but also adaptable for various dietary needs. Enjoy them as a wholesome snack or a tasty appetizer—perfectly crispy with every bite!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium head of cauliflower, washed and cut into bite-sized florets

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if preferred)

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1 large egg

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Olive oil spray (for cooking)

Instructions
 

Prep the Cauliflower: Start by thoroughly washing the cauliflower head. Cut it into bite-sized florets, ensuring that the pieces are uniform in size for consistent cooking.

    Blanch the Cauliflower: Fill a pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Carefully add the cauliflower florets and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes, just until they are tender yet still retain a slight crunch. Drain the florets and gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.

      Make the Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until fully incorporated and the mixture resembles a thick paste.

        Coat the Cauliflower: Add the blanched cauliflower florets to the cheese mixture. Carefully toss them until every floret is generously coated in the cheesy mixture. For better coverage, you can use your hands, but be gentle to avoid breaking the florets.

          Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes, ensuring it's hot and ready for even cooking.

            Arrange and Spray: Lightly coat the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the cauliflower nuggets in a single layer within the basket, making sure there's space between each nugget to allow for air circulation. You may need to work in batches if your air fryer is small.

              Air Fry the Nuggets: Spray the tops of the cauliflower nuggets lightly with olive oil. Cook them in the preheated air fryer for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and develop a golden-brown, crispy texture.

                Serve: After cooking, carefully remove the nuggets from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. These delicious bites are best enjoyed warm, paired with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, marinara, or a zesty spicy aioli.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings