Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Sliders

Name: Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup water; 1 cup buffalo sauce; 4 slider buns; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1/2 cup ranch dressing

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I love making Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Sliders because they are a perfect combination of spicy, crispy, and satisfying. The first time I tried them, I was pleasantly surprised by how satisfying cauliflower can be when it's prepared right. The bold buffalo sauce is simply irresistible, elevating the delicate cauliflower flavor into something extraordinary. These sliders make for a great appetizer or even a light meal. Plus, they are easy to whip up, making them perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:42:34.512Z

When I first started experimenting with cauliflower as a meat substitute, I was skeptical. However, after preparing Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Sliders, I was completely sold. The key is to coat the cauliflower in a light batter and bake it to perfection, achieving that coveted crunch while keeping the insides juicy. The secret to an extra kick is to let the cauliflower soak in the buffalo sauce before stacking them into sliders. It transforms a humble vegetable into a spicy sensation!

I've served these sliders at gatherings, and they're always a hit. It's incredibly rewarding to see everyone devour them, proving that plant-based can be downright delicious. Don't skip the cooling ranch sauce, as it balances out the heat beautifully. Trust me, once you try these sliders, you’ll be craving them all the time!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Spicy buffalo flavor that packs a punch
Crispy texture that satisfies every bite
Healthy alternative to traditional sliders

The Star Ingredient: Cauliflower

Cauliflower is often overlooked in many recipes, but when coated and baked, it becomes a delicious, hearty fixture in dishes like these sliders. The key to achieving a crispy texture lies in the batter—ensure your flour, water, and spices are mixed thoroughly to create a smooth consistency. This batter clings to the cauliflower, forming a delightful crunchy layer during baking, which complements the spiciness of the buffalo sauce beautifully.

Choosing the right cauliflower is crucial for a successful slider. Look for a fresh, firm head with tight florets and vibrant leaves. If you find the cauliflower too large, cutting it into smaller florets can not only enhance the texture but also allow for a more even coating of the batter and sauce, ensuring that every bite is filled with flavor.

Baking Tips for Maximum Crispiness

To achieve that coveted crispy exterior, make sure your oven is preheated to 425°F (220°C) before baking the battered cauliflower. On the baking sheet, the florets should be spaced out to allow for airflow; crowding them can lead to steaming rather than crisping. Flip the florets halfway through to evenly brown all sides—look for a golden-brown color to indicate they are ready to come out of the oven.

If you're not getting the desired crunch, try broiling the cauliflower for an extra minute or two at the end of the baking time. Keep a close watch during broiling to prevent burning. This step can elevate the texture even further, turning a good dish into a great one.

Ingredients

For the Buffalo Cauliflower

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup water
1 cup buffalo sauce

For the Sliders

4 slider buns
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup ranch dressing

Instructions

Prepare the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and water to create a batter. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it's well coated.

Bake the Cauliflower

Place the battered florets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Coat with Buffalo Sauce

Remove the cauliflower from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with buffalo sauce until well coated.

Assemble the Sliders

To assemble, place the crispy buffalo cauliflower on each slider bun, top with shredded lettuce and a drizzle of ranch dressing. Close the buns and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For extra crispiness, you can air-fry the battered cauliflower instead of baking them.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Sliders are delightful fresh, but if you're meal prepping or making ahead, store the baked cauliflower and sliders separately. You can keep the baked florets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, reheat them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven to restore their crispiness, for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

If you want to freeze the baked cauliflower, arrange the florets on a baking tray and freeze until firm before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents them from sticking together. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the time.

Variations to Consider

Feel free to customize the flavor of your buffalo sauce! If you prefer a milder slider, try mixing the buffalo sauce with a bit of honey or maple syrup to create a sweet and spicy glaze. For extra zest, adding a splash of lime juice can elevate the flavors, bringing a tangy brightness that complements the rich heat of the sauce.

If you're looking to experiment with additional toppings, consider adding sliced jalapeños, pickled red onions, or avocado for additional textures and flavors. Switching up the ranch dressing for a blue cheese dressing is another great way to vary the flavor profile; its creaminess will pair beautifully with the heat of the sliders.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.

→ How spicy are these sliders?

The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce you use. You can adjust it based on your preference.

→ Can I prepare the cauliflower ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the battered cauliflower and store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake them.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

These sliders pair well with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a fresh salad.