Mini Buffalo Cauliflower Taco Cups

In recent years, cauliflower has emerged as a superstar in the culinary world, praised for its versatility and health benefits. This cruciferous vegetable has transcended its traditional role as a side dish, finding its way into a myriad of recipes including cauliflower rice, pizza crusts, and even buffalo wings. One of the latest trends is using cauliflower to create healthy alternatives to beloved comfort foods. Enter Mini Buffalo Cauliflower Taco Cups—an innovative fusion that brings together the beloved flavors of buffalo sauce and tacos, while keeping health in focus.

Mini Buffalo Cauliflower Taco Cups

Discover the deliciousness of Mini Buffalo Cauliflower Taco Cups, a healthy twist on your favorite comfort food! These bite-sized treats blend spicy buffalo sauce with roasted cauliflower, creating a flavor explosion that's both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for game day or family gatherings, these taco cups are easy to make and even easier to share. Topped with a creamy avocado sauce, they offer a delightful crunch and a unique way to enjoy wholesome ingredients while keeping your diet in check.

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Ingredients

For the Taco Cups:

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into small florets

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup finely chopped green onions

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank's RedHot or your favorite)

For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:

1 ripe avocado

1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)

1 tablespoon lime juice

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

For Garnishing:

Extra chopped green onions

Crumbled blue cheese (optional)

Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Cauliflower: In a large mixing bowl, add the cauliflower florets. Pour in the hot sauce and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything well until the florets are thoroughly coated in the seasoning.

Roast the Cauliflower: Spread the seasoned cauliflower evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is fork-tender and has a slight crispy edge. Once done, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.

Mix Taco Cup Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the roasted cauliflower, breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are evenly integrated.

Form the Taco Cups: Spoon the cauliflower mixture into each greased muffin cup, pressing down gently with the back of the spoon to shape them into cups. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy.

Prepare the Creamy Avocado Sauce: While the taco cups are baking, it's time to whip up the avocado sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If desired, fold in the chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Cool and Assemble: Once the taco cups are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Carefully lift each cup out of the muffin tin using a small spoon or fork.

Serve: Arrange the taco cups on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the creamy avocado sauce and garnish with extra chopped green onions, crumbled blue cheese if desired, and fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color.

Enjoy your Mini Buffalo Cauliflower Taco Cups as a delightful appetizer or a fun dish for your next gathering!

Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 12 cups