Name: Easy 3-Ingredient Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head cauliflower (about 2 pounds), cut into large florets (about 8 cups); 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ⅓ cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)

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Crispy, spicy, and full of flavor, these buffalo cauliflower bites are one of my favorite snacks to make when I’m craving something bold but still light. They’re oven-roasted instead of fried, come together with just a handful of ingredients, and deliver that classic Buffalo-style taste I love. Whether I serve them as a side dish, appetizer, or tuck them into warm tortillas for tacos, they never last long on the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like how simple this recipe is — just three main ingredients and a few pantry staples are all it takes. The cauliflower turns beautifully golden and crisp in the oven without the fuss of breading or frying. I also appreciate how customizable these bites are; I can keep them fiery with classic hot sauce or mellow them out with a milder option. Best of all, they satisfy my Buffalo cravings without needing chicken wings.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 medium head cauliflower (about 2 pounds), cut into large florets (about 8 cups)
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup hot sauce (I like Frank’s RedHot for classic Buffalo flavor)

Directions

I start by arranging an oven rack in the lowest position and preheating the oven to 475°F.
I place the cauliflower florets on a rimmed baking sheet, drizzle with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, then season generously with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. I toss everything until coated evenly.
I roast the cauliflower for about 15 minutes, until it begins turning golden-brown and crisp around the edges.
While the cauliflower is roasting, I whisk together the hot sauce and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
I remove the baking sheet from the oven, pour the sauce mixture over the cauliflower, and toss until every piece is coated.
I return the tray to the oven and roast for another 5 to 10 minutes, until the bites are crisp and the sauce is hot.
I serve them immediately while they’re still extra crispy.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes 10 minutes to prep and about 20 to 25 minutes to cook, so I can have it on the table in around 35 minutes total.

Variations

For tacos, I like to stuff the cauliflower bites into warm corn tortillas with sliced radishes, cilantro, and crumbled cotija or feta.
For extra heat, I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne or a drizzle of sriracha on top.
If I want a creamy contrast, I serve these bites with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.
To change up the flavor, I swap the Buffalo sauce with barbecue sauce or a honey-garlic glaze.

Storage/Reheating

These bites are best eaten fresh from the oven while crispy, but I can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 400°F oven until hot and crisp again, about 10 minutes. I avoid the microwave since it makes them soggy.

FAQs

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, I can cook them in the air fryer at 400°F for about 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. After tossing with hot sauce, I air-fry for an additional 3–5 minutes.

What kind of hot sauce works best?

I usually stick with Frank’s RedHot for that classic Buffalo flavor, but I’ve also tried Texas Pete, Cholula, and even sriracha for a twist.

Can I prepare them ahead of time?

I can cut the cauliflower and season it in advance, but I prefer roasting just before serving so they stay crisp.

Are these bites vegan?

Yes, as long as I use olive oil and hot sauce without butter, these are naturally vegan.

Can I add breading for extra crunch?

I can, but I prefer them without. If I want more crunch, I toss the cauliflower in a little cornstarch before roasting.

Conclusion

These easy 3-ingredient Buffalo cauliflower bites have become one of my go-to snacks and sides. I like how they come together quickly, taste bold and zesty, and work in so many different ways — from party appetizers to taco fillings. The crispy edges, tender centers, and spicy kick make them irresistible every time I make them.