Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Sliders

Name: Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup milk or plant-based milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; Mini slider buns; Ranch dressing; Shredded lettuce; Sliced tomatoes; Sliced pickles

Highlighted under: Global Food

I absolutely love these Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Sliders! They are a deliciously spicy twist on the traditional slider, perfect for game day or as a satisfying weeknight dinner. The cauliflower is perfectly battered and baked until golden brown, then tossed in a zesty buffalo sauce that really amps up the flavor. We serve them on mini buns with creamy ranch dressing and crunchy veggies for that ultimate satisfying bite. Trust me, these sliders will make you forget they’re meat-free!

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:22:35.998Z

One day, while experimenting in the kitchen, I decided to create a healthier version of buffalo wings, and that’s how these sliders were born. The batter is simple and uses ingredients I always have on hand. Baking instead of frying means I can enjoy them guilt-free! The key, I found, is ensuring the cauliflower is evenly coated and arranging them in a single layer to achieve that desired crispy texture.

As I played around with spices, I realized that a mix of garlic powder and paprika perfectly complemented the heat of the buffalo sauce. I love pairing these sliders with fresh veggies and a drizzle of ranch dressing; it creates such a delightful balance. You won’t believe how easy they are to whip up!

Why You'll Love These Sliders
A healthier twist on classic buffalo flavors
Crispy texture that satisfies every crunch
Easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends

Mastering the Cauliflower Preparation

Choosing the right cauliflower is crucial for achieving a crispy result. Look for a large head with tightly packed florets and fresh green leaves. If the cauliflower has a slight yellowing or browning, it may be past its prime. Cutting the florets into even, bite-sized pieces ensures they cook uniformly; aim for about 1-2 inches in size. This consistency will help in coating them evenly with the batter and ensuring they crisp up nicely in the oven.

When creating the batter for your sliders, remember to whisk it until it’s smooth and free of lumps. This allows the batter to evenly coat the florets, leading to a better crunch when baked. Do not skip the garlic powder and paprika; these ingredients enhance the flavor profile significantly. If you're looking for an alternative to conventional flour, try using chickpea flour for a gluten-free option that adds a nutty taste.

Baking to Perfection

Temperature control is key when baking your cauliflower. Preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C) helps achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the insides tender. Make sure to place your florets in a single layer on the baking sheet to avoid steaming; overcrowding can lead to soggy sliders. If you notice that they're not browning by the end of the baking time, a quick broil for 1-2 minutes can enhance their crispiness, but watch closely to prevent burning.

For those who want to prepare the sliders ahead of time, consider baking the cauliflower in advance. After they cool, store the crispy florets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to use, simply reheat them in the oven to restore their crunch and toss with buffalo sauce just before assembling the sliders.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Sliders

For the Cauliflower

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup milk or plant-based milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup buffalo sauce

For Serving

Mini slider buns
Ranch dressing
Shredded lettuce
Sliced tomatoes
Sliced pickles

Instructions

How to Make Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Sliders

Preheat the Oven

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

Prepare the Cauliflower

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, milk, garlic powder, paprika, and salt until smooth. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, ensuring it's well-coated.

Coat with Breadcrumbs

Roll the battered florets in breadcrumbs until fully coated, then place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Cauliflower

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Toss in Buffalo Sauce

Once baked, remove the cauliflower from the oven and toss in buffalo sauce until evenly coated.

Assemble the Sliders

Place the buffalo cauliflower on mini buns, add a drizzle of ranch dressing, and top with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickles.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy buffalo cauliflower sliders!

Enjoy Your Sliders!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, try using panko breadcrumbs. Adjust the spice level of the buffalo sauce to your liking or add a dash of cayenne for more heat!

Serving Suggestions

While ranch dressing is a classic pairing for these sliders, feel free to experiment with other sauces or toppings. A drizzle of blue cheese dressing can add a tangy flavor that complements the buffalo sauce beautifully. You can also switch up the veggies by adding slices of jalapeños for an extra kick or crispy onions for an added textural contrast. Whatever you choose, ensuring a balance of fresh ingredients enhances the overall taste and experience of the sliders.

These sliders are perfect as a party appetizer or a satisfying main dish. Consider serving them with sides like sweet potato fries or a fresh coleslaw to add variety to your meal. If you're hosting a game day event, set up a slider bar where guests can customize their own with different sauces, toppings, and veggies. It makes for an interactive dining experience that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to switch up the flavor profile, try using different seasonings in the batter, such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for additional heat. You can also replace buffalo sauce with other sauces like teriyaki or sweet chili if you prefer a different flavor direction. Additionally, for a vegan alternative, ensure that the milk and ranch dressing are plant-based; many brands offer excellent versions that maintain great taste without dairy.

For fun variations, consider adding cheese to the sliders by placing a slice on top of the hot cauliflower just before serving. A bit of sharp cheddar or pepper jack can make for an indulgent twist. You might also want to try roasting the cauliflower instead of frying; either method works, but roasting gives a unique depth of flavor that complements the buffalo sauce well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower?

While fresh cauliflower is preferable, you can use frozen. Just make sure to thaw and pat it dry before battering.

→ Can these sliders be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cauliflower and bake them earlier. Just toss them in buffalo sauce right before serving.

→ How can I make these vegan?

Simply use plant-based milk and substitute the ranch dressing with a vegan alternative.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

These sliders pair perfectly with veggie sticks, chips, or a refreshing coleslaw.