Sliders with Buffalo Cauliflower

Name: Sliders with Buffalo Cauliflower
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup buffalo sauce; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 8 slider buns; Lettuce leaves; Sliced tomatoes; Pickles; Blue cheese or ranch dressing (optional)

Highlighted under: Smart Kitchen

I absolutely love trying new twists on classic comfort food, and these sliders with buffalo cauliflower have quickly become a favorite. They're spicy, satisfying, and pack all the flavor without the meat! The crispy cauliflower bites marinated in a tangy buffalo sauce provide a perfect complement to the soft slider buns. This dish is perfect for game day or a casual dinner with friends, and you can easily customize it with your favorite toppings. I can’t wait for you to try them!

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:05:34.680Z

I remember the first time I made these Buffalo Cauliflower sliders; it was during a weekend gathering with friends. I wanted to impress everyone with a new appetizer that was both delicious and accessible for vegetarians. While testing out different marinades, I stumbled upon the perfect blend of hot sauce and butter that created an irresistible glaze for the cauliflower. The results were nothing short of amazing!

Not only are these sliders packed with flavor, but the method of roasting the cauliflower really brings out its natural sweetness. I also found that allowing the cauliflower to marinate for a little while before roasting enhances the spiciness. Don’t skip this step — it’s what makes these sliders unforgettable!

        Why You Will Love These Sliders
        Spicy buffalo flavor that satisfies your craving
Crispy cauliflower creates a delightful texture
Perfect for parties and casual gatherings

      

Unlocking the Flavor of Buffalo Cauliflower

The key to achieving an authentic buffalo flavor lies in the buffalo sauce. Choosing a quality sauce can elevate your sliders significantly. Look for a brand that uses natural ingredients without excessive preservatives to ensure a fresh taste. For a milder option, you can mix the buffalo sauce with some honey or barbecue sauce to balance the heat while still keeping the essence of buffalo flavor.

When baking the cauliflower, the batter is vital for creating a crispy texture. Make sure it’s well-mixed to achieve a smooth, lump-free consistency. The batter should lightly coat the florets without being too thick, as that can lead to soggy bites. If you find that the batter isn’t sticking well, you can add an extra few tablespoons of flour until it has the right consistency.

Perfecting Your Slider Assembly

As you assemble your sliders, consider the layering of ingredients. Start with a sturdy base, like lettuce, to act as a moisture barrier between the hot cauliflower and the bun. This helps prevent the buns from getting soggy, allowing you to enjoy each bite without a mess. If you're using toppings like tomatoes or pickles, ensure they are sliced thinly to maintain balance and not overpower the cauliflower's spicy flavor.

For extra crunch and flavor, consider adding additional toppings such as sliced jalapeños or crunchy slaw. You can prepare a quick slaw using shredded cabbage and carrots dressed with a little vinegar and lime juice. This adds a refreshing element that complements the heat of the buffalo sauce really well.

Ingredients

For the Buffalo Cauliflower

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup water
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup buffalo sauce
2 tablespoons butter, melted

For the Sliders

8 slider buns
Lettuce leaves
Sliced tomatoes
Pickles
Blue cheese or ranch dressing (optional)

Instructions

Making the Sliders

Prepare the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Dip each cauliflower floret in the batter and place it on the baking sheet.

Bake the Cauliflower

Bake the battered cauliflower for 20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. In a separate bowl, combine the buffalo sauce and melted butter. Remove cauliflower from the oven and toss it in the buffalo sauce mixture.

Assemble the Sliders

Return the buffalo cauliflower to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. While the cauliflower is baking, prepare your slider buns by toasting them lightly. Once the cauliflower is ready, assemble the sliders by placing the crispy cauliflower on the buns, adding lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a drizzle of blue cheese or ranch dressing if desired.

Enjoy Your Sliders!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce on top of the sliders. You can also try using whole wheat or gluten-free slider buns to cater to different dietary preferences.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover buffalo cauliflower, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the components separate, as the moisture can cause the buns to become soggy. To reheat, place the cauliflower on a baking sheet and re-crisp it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, ensuring it retains its lovely texture.

For freezing, it’s best to avoid freezing assembled sliders directly, as they don't hold up well. Instead, freeze the buffalo cauliflower separately in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen. You can then reheat directly from frozen to serve fresh sliders when you're ready.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize the sliders based on your taste preferences. For a smoky kick, you can add a touch of chipotle powder or smoked cayenne to the batter. If you're looking for healthier options, explore alternative buns like whole grain or gluten-free varieties, which can still hold up against the bold flavors.

You could also experiment with alternative toppings like avocado slices or even a creamy cilantro yogurt sauce instead of traditional ranch. This offers a fresh twist and can help cool the heat, making it a flavorful complement to the spicy buffalo cauliflower.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders vegan?

Yes! Use a plant-based butter and check that your buffalo sauce is vegan-friendly.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

These sliders are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I bake the cauliflower instead of frying it?

Yes, baking creates a healthier version and still delivers great flavor and texture!

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to get creative! Avocado, cilantro, and shredded cheese all make excellent additions.