This oven-baked buffalo cauliflower delivers all the flavor you love—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and tossed in a zesty buffalo sauce. Whether serving it as a game-day snack, a side dish, or a meatless appetizer, this easy recipe will surely be a hit. Plus, it’s baked instead of fried, making it a guilt-free way to satisfy those buffalo cravings!

Craving a healthier alternative to buffalo wings? Oven-baked buffalo cauliflower is a lighter, veggie-packed option with a spicy, tangy goodness. It’s crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make—without the need for deep frying. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a delicious side dish, or a meatless game-day snack, this recipe will hit the spot.

With just a handful of ingredients and simple baking techniques, you can whip up this guilt-free comfort food in no time. Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian and gluten-free!

Tips for the Best Buffalo Cauliflower

✅ Use fresh cauliflower – Frozen cauliflower will release too much moisture.
✅ Don’t overcrowd the pan – Spread the florets out so they crisp evenly.
✅ Want extra crispy cauliflower? Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
✅ Make it spicier – Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the buffalo sauce for an extra kick!

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Oven-Baked Buffalo Cauliflower

Oven-baked buffalo cauliflower is a healthy, delicious alternative for wings or a side for your main entree. This super easy recipe is a favorite for dinner or your next party.

Course Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine American

Keyword buffalo cauliflower, cauliflower, oven baked cauliflower

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Servings 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 head cauliflower cut into bite sized florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tbsp pepper
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce I use Frank's RedHot
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp honey optional
• 2 tbsp ranch dressing to drizzle optional

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400℉. Spray a medium sized baking sheet with cooking spray and set aside.

2. In a medium to large mixing bowl, add the florets, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.

3. Spread out the florets onto the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20 minutes, turning after 10 minutes. (Keep the bowl to use later.)

   

4. While the florets are cooking, combine the buffalo sauce, melted butter, and honey in a small bowl.

5. Remove from oven and place the florets back into the bowl. Toss in the buffalo sauce mixture. Spread back out on baking sheet and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

   

6. Remove from oven and serve immediately. I like to drizzle ranch dressing on top and add some dried chives.

   

This oven-baked buffalo cauliflower is a game-changer for anyone who loves bold flavors but wants a lighter, veggie-based alternative to traditional wings. Whether you’re serving it up for game day, as a side dish, or just because you’re craving something spicy and delicious, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Did you make this recipe? Tag me on Instagram @CoffeeAfterKids so I can see your delicious creations!

Check out some other great side dishes:

Onion Straws

5-Minute Coleslaw

Twice Baked Potatoes