Sliders with Buffalo Cauliflower

Name: Sliders with Buffalo Cauliflower
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 buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 cup buffalo sauce; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 slider buns; Lettuce leaves; Sliced tomatoes; Ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing

Highlighted under: Cultural World Food Ideas

I absolutely adore creating sliders that are both satisfying and a little adventurous. These Sliders with Buffalo Cauliflower are my go-to for a fun twist on a classic dish. The fluffy cauliflower, coated in spicy buffalo sauce, creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion. Topped with crunchy lettuce and creamy ranch dressing, these sliders hit all the right notes, whether I'm entertaining friends or enjoying a cozy night in. Trust me, these sliders are a game-changer for any meal!

Created by

Dorothy Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:17:34.908Z

I recently made these Sliders with Buffalo Cauliflower for a casual get-together with friends, and they became an instant hit. The combination of spicy, crispy cauliflower and fresh toppings made them the star of the evening. I learned that soaking the cauliflower in a little buttermilk before coating it helps the batter stick better, resulting in a crunchier texture.

What I truly love about these sliders is their versatility. You can easily adjust the level of heat by modifying the buffalo sauce or even adding more toppings. Plus, these sliders are perfect for game days or as a lighter option for a family dinner. Trust me, they won’t last long!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        A spicy twist on a classic slider that everyone will adore
Crispy and tender cauliflower that satisfies cravings
Perfect for a casual gathering or a fun weeknight meal

      

Mastering the Perfect Cauliflower

One of the secrets to achieving that perfect crispy texture on your Buffalo cauliflower is in the buttermilk soaking step. The acidity in buttermilk helps to tenderize the cauliflower while contributing flavor. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with a mixture of dairy milk and a splash of vinegar to mimic the tangy profile of buttermilk. Allow the florets to soak for at least 10 minutes, but if you have time, a longer soak can yield even better flavor absorption.

When you coat the cauliflower in the flour mixture, make sure each piece is evenly covered. I recommend using a shallow dish for this step to ensure all sides are nicely coated. This flour mixture is vital not only for flavor but also for achieving that golden brown color. If the mixture seems too dry when coating, add a little more buttermilk—each floret should have a nice, thick layer of the batter.

Baking Tips for Optimal Crunch

Baking your cauliflower at a high temperature, like 425°F (220°C), is key for creating that golden brown, crispy exterior. Make sure to space the florets evenly on your baking sheet—that way, they'll roast instead of steam. If they’re too crowded, you may end up with soggy bites rather than a satisfying crunch. About halfway through the baking time, flipping the florets ensures even cooking and browning.

After tossing the baked cauliflower in buffalo sauce, don’t skip the final five minutes back in the oven. This step not only sets the sauce but allows it to caramelize slightly, enhancing the overall flavor profile. You want the cauliflower to come out glossy and sticky—a sure sign it’s ready to be nestled into those slider buns.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started:

For the Buffalo Cauliflower

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 cup buffalo sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sliders

4 slider buns
Lettuce leaves
Sliced tomatoes
Ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's move on to the next step!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious sliders:

Prepare the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, soak the cauliflower florets in buttermilk for about 10 minutes. This will help create a flavorful and crispy coating.

Make the Batter

In another bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove the cauliflower from the buttermilk and dip each floret into the flour mixture until well-coated.

Bake the Cauliflower

Spread the coated cauliflower onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Add Buffalo Sauce

Remove the cauliflower from the oven and toss it in buffalo sauce until completely coated. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to set the sauce.

Assemble the Sliders

To assemble, spread ranch or blue cheese dressing on the slider buns, top with crispy buffalo cauliflower, lettuce, and tomato slices. Serve warm.

Enjoy your flavorful sliders! Perfect for parties or a delicious dinner.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños to your sliders or trying a spicy ranch dressing as a topping.

Variations and Serving Ideas

While these sliders shine with buffalo sauce, feel free to experiment with different flavors. Try adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the buffalo sauce for a touch of sweetness or mix in some garlic powder for an extra hit of flavor. You can also swap out the toppings; for a Mediterranean twist, consider using tzatziki sauce in place of ranch or blue cheese dressing and adding cucumber slices.

To elevate the sliders further, consider toasting the buns before assembly for an added layer of crunch. A quick time in the oven or on a skillet with a bit of butter can make all the difference. Serve these sliders with a side of celery sticks or carrot sticks for that classic buffalo experience, and feel free to offer a variety of dipping sauces for your guests.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These sliders are great for meal prep! The baked buffalo cauliflower can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, reheat in a toaster oven or under the broiler for a few minutes to restore crispiness, as microwaving may lead to a soggy texture. You can also prepare the ranch or blue cheese dressing ahead of time to save on assembly time during busy weeknights.

If you're looking to make these for a larger crowd, consider doubling the recipe. The baking process remains the same, but be sure to use multiple baking sheets to avoid overcrowding. Alternatively, you can freeze the coated cauliflower before baking. Just ensure to separate the florets on a tray and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to your baking time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders vegan?

Yes! Substitute buttermilk with plant-based milk mixed with a little vinegar, and use vegan ranch dressing.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

They pair well with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad.

→ Can I prepare the cauliflower ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can coat the cauliflower the night before and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.