Sliders with Buffalo Cauliflower

Name: Sliders with Buffalo Cauliflower
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup buffalo sauce; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 4 slider buns; Lettuce leaves for garnish; Ranch dressing for serving

Highlighted under: International Kitchen

I absolutely love these Sliders with Buffalo Cauliflower! They're packed with flavor and provide a unique twist on traditional sliders. The crispy cauliflower is coated in a spicy buffalo sauce, which adds an exciting kick to every bite. I've made these sliders for gatherings and have always received rave reviews from friends and family alike. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to whip up, making them a great option for both casual and special occasions. Trust me, they're a must-try!

Created by

Maribel Hawthorne

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:49:34.476Z

When I first experimented with these sliders, I was amazed at how the buffalo cauliflower mimicked the texture of chicken, while giving a bold flavor that satisfied my cravings. I coated the cauliflower florets in a homemade buffalo sauce, which allowed them to bake perfectly in the oven, becoming both crispy and tender.

To enhance the flavor, I served the sliders with a cooling ranch dressing and crisp lettuce. The contrast between the spicy cauliflower and the creamy dressing was divine! I recommend adjusting the buffalo sauce to your preferred spice level for a personalized touch.

Why You'll Love These Sliders
Crispy cauliflower with a fiery buffalo kick
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
A deliciously healthier alternative to traditional sliders

Mastering the Buffalo Cauliflower

The key to achieving the perfect crispy texture lies in your batter. Ensure the flour is well-mixed with water until you reach a slightly thicker consistency than pancake batter. This allows for better adherence of the breadcrumbs, creating a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender cauliflower inside. If you find the batter too thick, gradually whisk in more water until you reach the desired texture. A well-coated floret is essential for that satisfying crunch.

When baking the cauliflower, spread the florets in a single layer without overcrowding the baking sheet. This ensures that hot air circulates evenly around each piece, leading to a uniform golden-brown finish. I recommend checking the cauliflower around the 15-minute mark; if they start to brown too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature slightly. The goal is crispy, not burnt, so adjust as needed.

Dressing Up Your Sliders

While ranch dressing is a classic pairing with buffalo flavors, feel free to experiment with other dips or sauces. A creamy blue cheese dressing can complement the heat of the buffalo sauce beautifully. Additionally, adding toppings like sliced avocado or the fresh zing of pickled jalapeños can elevate your sliders even further, bringing in layers of flavor that excite your taste buds.

For those looking to make this dish gluten-free, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. This way, you won’t sacrifice any of the crunch or flavor while accommodating dietary restrictions. Just keep in mind that baking times may vary slightly, so monitor the color of your cauliflower closely.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your sliders:

For the Sliders

1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup buffalo sauce
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup breadcrumbs
4 slider buns
Lettuce leaves for garnish
Ranch dressing for serving

Make sure you have these ingredients ready before you begin!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your sliders:

Prepare the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). In a bowl, whisk the flour with a bit of water to create a thick batter. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, then coat with breadcrumbs. Place the coated florets on a baking sheet.

Bake the Cauliflower

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy.

Sauce the Cauliflower

Remove the cauliflower from the oven and toss the hot florets in buffalo sauce until evenly coated.

Assemble the Sliders

Place a few buffalo cauliflower pieces on each slider bun. Top with lettuce and a drizzle of ranch dressing, then cover with the top half of the bun.

Your sliders are now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For a milder flavor, use a milder hot sauce or reduce the amount of buffalo sauce used for coating.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover buffalo cauliflower, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to eat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes to refresh the flakiness. Avoid microwaving as this can make the cauliflower soggy, losing that coveted crispness.

For a make-ahead option, you can prepare the cauliflower florets and coat them in the batter and breadcrumbs a day ahead. Keep them covered in the refrigerator and bake fresh when your guests arrive. This makes entertainment seamless, giving you more time to enjoy their company.

Scaling and Variations

If you're looking to serve a larger crowd, scaling this recipe is easy. Simply double or triple the ingredients while ensuring your baking sheets are prepared for the quantity. Use multiple ovens or bake in batches to get all the cauliflower done simultaneously; this keeps everything warm and fresh for serving.

Feeling adventurous? Try swapping the buffalo sauce with a different spicy sauce or even a sweet chili sauce for a completely new flavor profile. You can also incorporate additional seasonings into the breadcrumb mix, such as paprika or garlic powder, to enhance the overall taste experience of your sliders.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders vegan?

Yes! Use a vegan ranch dressing and ensure the buffalo sauce is vegan-friendly.

→ How can I make them spicier?

Add extra hot sauce to the batter or use a hotter variety of buffalo sauce.

→ What should I serve with these sliders?

These sliders pair well with carrot and celery sticks as well as extra ranch dressing for dipping.

→ Can I prepare the cauliflower ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and coat the cauliflower a few hours in advance and bake it just before serving.