Sliders with Buffalo Cauliflower

Name: Sliders with Buffalo Cauliflower
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buffalo sauce; 4 slider buns; 1 cup coleslaw mix; 1/2 cup ranch dressing

Highlighted under: Global World Food Collection

I love experimenting with vegetarian recipes, and these sliders with buffalo cauliflower have become a favorite in our home. The spicy, tangy flavor of the cauliflower paired with the creamy sauce creates a deliciously satisfying bite. We often serve them at gatherings, and they always get rave reviews. Plus, they're easy to make, which is a bonus, especially when I'm juggling multiple dishes. Each bite bursts with flavor and will impress both veggie lovers and meat-eaters alike.

Created by

Isabella Clark

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:33:35.325Z

When I first made sliders with buffalo cauliflower, I was completely blown away by how delectable they turned out. I roasted the cauliflower until it was perfectly crispy, then tossed it in a spicy buffalo sauce. The combination is unmatched! It’s a great way to enjoy a classic flavor, but in a meatless form.

I found that adding some creamy coleslaw on top of the sliders not only balances the heat but also adds a wonderful crunch. This unexpected twist has made these sliders a go-to recipe whenever I want to please a crowd.

Why You'll Love These Sliders
Spicy, tangy buffalo flavor brings excitement to your plate
Crispy cauliflower creates a delightful texture
Perfectly satisfying for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike

The Star Ingredient: Cauliflower

Cauliflower is the MVP in this recipe, transforming from a humble vegetable into a spicy, tangy delight. When baked, it develops a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with its tender interior. To ensure optimal crispiness, be sure to coat each floret thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. If you notice some pieces aren't sticking, lightly spray them with cooking oil before baking for that extra crunch.

Choosing the right cauliflower is also crucial. Look for a medium head that feels firm and has tight florets. Avoid any signs of browning or wilting, as these indicate age. If you're making this recipe for a crowd, consider using two heads of cauliflower to ensure everyone enjoys it!

Perfecting the Baking Process

Oven temperature plays a vital role in achieving that perfect crunch. Preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C) is key to getting the cauliflower crisp rather than soggy. Also, placing the cauliflower florets in a single layer on your baking sheet allows for even heat circulation, promoting browning and crispiness. If you have space, consider using two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.

Baking time can vary slightly depending on the size of your florets. Check them at the 15-minute mark; they should be golden brown and feel dry to the touch. If they're not quite there yet, give them a few more minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Serving and Storage Tips

These buffalo cauliflower sliders are best served immediately for maximum crunch and flavor. If you're preparing ahead of time, you can bake the cauliflower and toss it in buffalo sauce, then store it separately in the fridge. Just before serving, reheat in the oven for about 5-7 minutes to restore its crispy texture.

For a fun twist, you can customize your sliders by adding different toppings or sauces. Try a blue cheese dressing instead of ranch for a classic buffalo flavor, or swap the coleslaw for a fresh avocado topping for creaminess. These sliders are versatile and can easily adapt to your personal tastes!

Ingredients

For the Sliders

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buffalo sauce
4 slider buns
1 cup coleslaw mix
1/2 cup ranch dressing

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Cauliflower

In a bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Dip each cauliflower floret into the flour mixture, shaking off the excess, then coat them with breadcrumbs.

Bake the Cauliflower

Place the breaded cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Toss in Sauce

Remove the cauliflower from the oven and toss it in buffalo sauce until all pieces are coated.

Assemble the Sliders

On each slider bun, layer buffalo cauliflower, coleslaw mix, and a drizzle of ranch dressing. Top with the other half of the bun.

Serve

Serve immediately and enjoy your spicy, crispy sliders!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, consider adding some sliced pickles or jalapeños to your sliders!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For the breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs can add an extra crunch, while crushed cornflakes or almond flour can easily stand in for a gluten-free alternative. Experiment with different coatings to give a unique touch to your sliders.

For spice enthusiasts, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the buffalo sauce for an extra kick. If you're reducing carbohydrates, using lettuce wraps instead of slider buns can deliver the same great flavor without the bread.

Flavor Pairings

Complement the sliders with sides like crispy sweet potato fries or a vibrant vegetable platter to balance the spicy heat of the buffalo cauliflower. Pairing these sliders with a cooling dip, like tzatziki or a yogurt-based dressing, can help to mellow the flavors and create a delightful contrast.

Consider serving your sliders with a selection of pickled vegetables or jalapeños on the side, which adds a delightful acidity and freshness to each bite. This not only enhances the dish but also creates an interactive dining experience for your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used, but make sure to thaw and thoroughly dry it before breading.

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the coated cauliflower in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake them shortly before serving.

→ Is it necessary to use ranch dressing?

While ranch dressing adds a creamy balance, you can substitute it with any dressing of your choice or leave it off.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.