Buffalo Cauliflower Grilled Cheese

A bold, flavorful twist on classic grilled cheese: spicy roasted cauliflower, creamy ranch, and gooey melted cheese between crispy golden bread slices.

I first made this sandwich to impress my vegetarian friends and it quickly became a family favorite at every gathering.

Ingredients

• For the Buffalo Cauliflower: 3 cups small cauliflower florets, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce
• For the Ranch Spread: 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade), 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional), 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
• For the Sandwiches: 8 slices sourdough or country-style bread, 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softene d

Instructions

Prep ingredients easily by chopping vegetables, slicing meats, and serving dishes neatly during everyday cooking.

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Step 1:

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) Line a baking sheet with parchment paper

Step 2:

In a bowl toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper Spread on the prepared baking sheet

Step 3:

Roast cauliflower for 15 minutes stirring halfway through Remove from oven, toss with buffalo wing sauce, and roast 5 more minutes Set aside

Step 4:

In a small bowl, mix ranch dressing with chives and dill, if using

Step 5:

Lay out bread slices Spread ranch mixture on one side of each slice

Step 6:

On four slices, sprinkle half the cheddar and mozzarella Top with buffalo cauliflower, then the remaining cheese Cover with remaining bread slices, ranch-side down

Step 7:

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat Spread butter on the outer sides of each sandwich

Step 8:

Grill sandwiches 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden and cheese is melted

Step 9:

Let cool for 1 minute, slice, and serve warm

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My family always gathers around the kitchen while I prepare this sandwich, eager to try each gooey bite together.

Notes

For extra heat, drizzle with more buffalo sauce before serving Add sliced green onions or a handful of baby spinach for a fresh twist Pair with a crisp lager or a citrusy IPA

Required Tools

Baking sheet, Mixing bowls, Skillet or griddle, Spatula, Knife and cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains Wheat (bread), Milk (cheese, butter, ranch) Ranch dressing may contain eggs or soy; check labels if sensitive For gluten-free use gluten-free bread For vegan use plant-based cheese, butter, and ranch

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Chop vegetables, slice meats, and prep ingredients easily for everyday cooking and homemade recipes.

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This buffalo cauliflower ranch grilled cheese offers a deliciously spicy, creamy, and crispy experience that satisfies every bite.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do I achieve crispy cauliflower in this dish?

Roast cauliflower at high heat with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until browned. Tossing halfway ensures even crisping before adding buffalo sauce for flavor.

→ Can I use homemade ranch for the spread?

Yes, homemade ranch with fresh herbs like chives and dill or store-bought dressing both work well to add creamy, tangy notes.

→ What breads work best for grilling?

Sourdough or country-style bread holds up well, providing a crunchy exterior and soft interior for the layered ingredients.

→ How to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?

Spread ranch only on one side, use butter on the outside, and grill over medium heat to get a crispy crust without sogginess.

→ Are there vegan substitutions available?

Yes, swap dairy cheeses and butter with plant-based alternatives and use vegan ranch to maintain texture and flavor.