Air Fryer Cauliflower and Cheese Bake

Name: Air Fryer Cauliflower and Cheese Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets (about 4 cups); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons almond flour; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a subtle smoky flavor); Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

By AirFryFeast Editorial TeamPublished Apr 2, 2026 | Updated Jun 16, 2026

Savor a cauliflower and cheese bake that crisps beautifully in the air fryer. This quick and easy side dish is perfect for busy weeknight dinners and family meals craving comforting food.

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Air fryerAmericanEasyAir Fryer Friendly

Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time18 mins

Total Time28 mins

Servings4

Temperature375°F / 190°C

Ingredients

Servings4

1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets (about 4 cups)
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons almond flour
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a subtle smoky flavor)
Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes while prepping the cauliflower and sauce.
In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Arrange the cauliflower in a single layer in the air fryer basket and air fry for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway to promote even cooking and crispness.
Meanwhile, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Stir in almond flour; cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to form a roux.
Slowly whisk in heavy cream to prevent lumps; cook until sauce thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat.
Add half the shredded cheddar and all Parmesan cheese to the sauce; stir until melted and smooth.
Transfer cooked cauliflower to an air fryer-safe baking dish that fits inside your air fryer basket.
Pour cheesy sauce evenly over cauliflower and sprinkle remaining cheddar on top for a golden crust.
Return dish to air fryer and cook for 8 minutes at 375°F (190°C), until cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Let cool 3 to 5 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Recipe guidance

Crispiness Control

Pat the head cauliflower dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.