Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Sliders

Name: Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup water; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup buffalo sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 slider buns; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup coleslaw mix; 2 tablespoons ranch dressing

Highlighted under: International World Food Favorites

I absolutely love making crispy buffalo cauliflower sliders! They provide a perfect balance of crunch and spice, making for a satisfying alternative to traditional sliders. I started experimenting with cauliflower after realizing how versatile it is. These sliders are incredibly easy to prepare, and each bite is bursting with flavor. The combination of seasoning and the crunchy coating gives them an irresistible allure, making them a favorite among my friends and family. Trust me; you won't miss the meat with this delicious recipe!

Created by

Hannah Lewis

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:22:35.312Z

When I first tried buffalo cauliflower, I was blown away by how flavorful it was while still being a guilt-free snack! I coated the cauliflower in a homemade batter and baked them until they were golden and crispy. The key was to not be shy with the buffalo sauce; it really enhances the flavor without needing additional ingredients.

What makes these sliders stand out is the fresh toppings I add, like creamy avocado or crunchy slaw. These toppings provide a cool contrast to the spicy cauliflower. Each slider becomes a mini explosion of flavor, and I love sharing them during game nights!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Delectably spicy with a crispy texture
A healthier, plant-based alternative to traditional sliders
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion

      

Mastering the Cauliflower Preparation

When preparing the cauliflower, aim for uniformly sized florets to ensure even cooking. A head of cauliflower typically yields around 4 cups of florets. If some pieces are larger, they may require slightly longer baking times to achieve that perfect crispy texture. I recommend cutting the florets to about 1-2 inches in size for the best results. This size allows for adequate coating and enhances the overall texture in each slider.

Before dipping the cauliflower in the batter, a quick rinse and dry will help the coating adhere better. You can also season the flour mixture with smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra depth of flavor if you like a bit more heat. This seasoning combo is vital because it imparts incredible flavor right into the batter.

Baking to Perfection

Baking the battered cauliflower at a high temperature (425°F or 220°C) creates that desired crunch while keeping the inside tender. Make sure to space the florets on the baking sheet to allow air to circulate, preventing steaming. If you find that your cauliflower isn't as crispy as you like, a quick couple of minutes under the broiler (keep an eye on it!) can help achieve that golden brown finish. Flip the florets halfway through to promote even browning and avoid sogginess.

For an extra crispy exterior, consider sprinkling a bit of panko breadcrumbs on top before baking. The added texture complements the fluffy interior of the cauliflower beautifully, and adding them right before the last 5 minutes of baking time ensures they remain crunchy without burning.

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower

1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup water
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup buffalo sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sliders

4 slider buns
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup coleslaw mix
2 tablespoons ranch dressing

Instructions

Prepare the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth. Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.

Bake the Cauliflower

Place the coated cauliflower on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Coat with Buffalo Sauce

Remove the cauliflower from the oven and toss them in a bowl with buffalo sauce until fully coated. Drizzle olive oil for added crispness if desired.

Assemble the Sliders

To assemble, place buffalo cauliflower on each slider bun. Top with avocado slices and coleslaw mix. Drizzle with ranch dressing.

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the spice level of the buffalo sauce to your preference. Adding more toppings like pickles or jalapeños can also enhance the sliders!

Buffalo Sauce Customization

The buffalo sauce you choose can dramatically alter the flavor profile of your sliders. If you prefer a milder heat, opt for a buffalo sauce that's lower in spice or even mix it with a bit of ranch before tossing the cauliflower. For those who crave heat, consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce directly into the batter as well. This dual flavor layer will definitely put your sliders over the top!

You can also make your own buffalo sauce by blending unsalted butter, cayenne pepper, and vinegar. This homemade version allows you to adjust the heat level precisely to your liking and assures freshness without the preservatives found in many store-bought sauces.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover buffalo cauliflower can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you prefer to reheat them and maintain their crispiness, place them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it tends to make the coating soggy. This method restores that delightful crunch while warming them through.

Another option is to freeze the uncooked, battered cauliflower. Flash-freeze them on a baking sheet for an hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you are ready to fry or bake, no need to thaw; simply cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, adjusting for your desired crispiness. This makes it easy to enjoy these sliders at a moment's notice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I use other vegetables instead of cauliflower?

Absolutely! Broccoli or even chickpeas can make excellent substitutes.

→ What dipping sauce pairs well with these sliders?

Blue cheese or ranch dressing are excellent choices that complement the spicy flavors!