Air Fryer Cauliflower Gratin

Whip up this easy Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese for a tasty main or side dish. In just minutes, turn simple cauliflower into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that’s sure to impress. It’s the perfect vegetarian option for any occasion!

Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese is the perfect side dish, and if you love oozy cheese, you will love this. It’s easy, and it’s delicious!

Some of my other air fryer side dishes are Air Fryer Honey Roasted Carrots, Air Fryer Roasted Cauliflower, and Air Fryer Roasted Green Beans.

Air Fryer Cheesy Cauliflower

This variation of the classic cauliflower cheese dish uses the air fryer for a quick and convenient bake without needing the oven.

It’s perfect for serving two as a main course, similar to my Air Fryer Pasta Bake. Air Fryer Cauliflower cheese makes a delicious main but also shines as a creamy side dish for roast dinners or as a Thanksgiving or Christmas side dish.

It’s amazing, and of course, who doesn’t love air fryer cheesy cauliflower bake?

Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese Ingredients

Here are the simple ingredients, you will need:

Remember the step-by-step directions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.

• Cauliflower: You can use a whole head of cauliflower or cauliflower florets.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter
• Shallot: Use finely diced shallots for some added flavor; you can also use sweet onions
• Flour: You can use all-purpose flour, gluten-free all-purpose flour, coconut flour, or almond flour.
• Dairy: Use a mixture of whole milk and half and half
• Ham: You can also use cooked bacon
• Cheese: Use freshly shredded Cheddar cheese or Mexican shredded cheese
• Seasonings and Spices: Salt and Black Pepper

How To Make Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese

Here are the step-by-step instructions:

Step One: Prepare The Cauliflower Cut the cauliflower into small florets. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter.

Step Two: Prepare The Cheese Sauce Add the shallots and cook until softened. Add the flour to the saucepan, constantly stir and continue cooking for 3 minutes. Gradually add the milk and half & half, and stir with a whisk until you obtain a smooth texture. Finally, add salt, pepper, and ¾ cup of cheese and stir until melted. Remove from the heat.

Step Three: Air Fry Cauliflower Bake Spray a baking dish with oil spray. Place the cauliflower florets into the baking dish. Pour the sauce over the cauliflower. Add the ham and the rest of the cheese on top. Cover with aluminum foil and cook in the air fryer at 340 degrees F for 10-12 minutes. Remove the aluminum foil and cook for 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown.

Step Four: Serving Serve With additional cheese or sliced green onions.

Air Fryer Cauliflower Gratin Recipe Tips

• Pre-cook the Cauliflower: Lightly steam or microwave the cauliflower before air frying to ensure it’s tender in the final dish.
• Use a Shallow Dish: Use a shallow, air fryer-safe baking dish to ensure even cooking and a golden-brown top.
• Add Cheese Gradually: Mix half the cheese into the sauce and sprinkle the rest on top for a perfectly cheesy, golden crust.
• Season Well: Be generous with salt, pepper, and any spices like garlic powder or paprika to enhance the flavor.
• Use Creamy Ingredients: For a richer dish, mix in heavy cream or cream cheese with the sauce before adding the cauliflower.
• Watch the Timing: Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning.
• Add Crunch: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the top before air frying to add a crispy, crunchy texture.
• Let It Rest: After air frying, let the gratin sit for a few minutes to allow the cheese to set before serving.

Air Fryer Cauliflower Gratin Recipe Faqs

Do I need to pre-cook the cauliflower before air frying? Yes, lightly steaming or microwaving the cauliflower before air frying ensures it becomes tender without overcooking the cheese and sauce.

Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used, but make sure to thaw and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture, which could make the gratin soggy.

What type of cheese works best? Cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan are ideal for gratin because they melt well and add a sharp, savory flavor.

How long should I cook the cauliflower gratin in the air fryer? Air fry the gratin at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Can I add breadcrumbs for extra crunch? Absolutely! Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the top before air frying for a crispy, crunchy texture.

What dish should I use in the air fryer? Use an air fryer-safe shallow baking dish or a small casserole dish for even cooking and a perfectly browned top.

Can I make it ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the gratin ahead and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, air fry for a few extra minutes to heat through and crisp up the top.

Can I make this recipe keto-friendly? Yes, simply omit the breadcrumbs and use full-fat cheese and cream for a keto-friendly version of cauliflower gratin.

How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at a lower temperature until warmed through.

Can I add other vegetables to the gratin? Yes, you can add other low-moisture vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, but be sure to pre-cook them as well.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER CURRY TOFU
• AIR FRYER DOUBLE CHOCOLATE SEA SALT CUPCAKES
• HONEY-ROASTED WALNUTS AIR FRYER
• AIR FRYER FRENCH ONION CHEESE BREAD
• AIR FRYER RANCH PORK CHOPS

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