Buffalo sliders on Hawaiian rolls are small sandwiches made with spicy buffalo meat and soft, sweet bread rolls. These sliders combine the bold flavors of buffalo sauce with the sweet softness of Hawaiian rolls. Everyone loves them at parties, game days, or family dinners since they’re so simple to grab and pass around. To assist you in achieving delicious results, this buffalo sliders on Hawaiian rolls guide encompasses straightforward steps, helpful tips, and serving ideas.
About the Dish
Buffalo sliders on Hawaiian rolls unite a timeless American flavor with the element of sweet roll nostalgia that’s equal parts comfort and surprise. These sliders are known for their punch of buffalo sauce paired with the soft, pillowy texture of Hawaiian rolls, making each bite a blend of spice and sweetness. Part of what makes the dish so memorable is its versatility in social occasions, which turned it into a staple at parties around L.A. Beyond.
Fusion of Flavors
Our buffalo sliders are inspired by the American classic, buffalo wings, and spotlight a tangy, spicy sauce as their key flavor note. The sauce’s heat is tempered by the rolls’ touch of sweetness, a hallmark of Hawaiian bread. The upshot is a bite that’s punchy but not punch-you-in-the-face. A drizzle of creamy goodness like ranch or blue cheese dressing only further rounds out the sharpness, making every bite a cool and spicy mash-up. It’s this combination that gives the dish its flexibility. It can be tweaked with cheeses or sauces to fit a variety of tastes.
The Hawaiian rolls are not just flavor, but texture as well. I love these rolls for being soft and just a bit chewy to hang onto the meat and sauce without falling apart. They complement well the moistness of the chicken or beef burger inside. The rolls’ sweetness doesn’t overpower the buffalo sauce — it acts as a subtle background note that allows the heat to shine.
Versatility as a Party Food
Buffalo sliders make a great appetizer, main course, or late night snack. They’re bite sized enough that you don’t need a fork and spoon, which makes them great for parties or game day spreads where people are wandering around. Here in LA, where parties can be impromptu and eclectic, these sliders fit right in as they are simple to prepare in advance and warm back up.
Their portions lend themselves to being easily customized for different diet requirements. Turn it up by swapping in turkey, veggie patties or gluten-free buns when necessary! Whether you prefer yours with toppings—lettuce, tomato, pickles, or even a slice of avocado—they accommodate almost any craving.
Balance of Textures
Soft Hawaiian rolls form the base of the burger, and the meat is the succulent center. The patty – chicken, beef or plant-based – is lightly seasoned and cooked to just done, still moist. Add a layer of creaminess with the sauces and toppings that tie it all together. Crisp lettuce or fresh onions for a crunch – makes the sliders perfectly well-rounded in mouthfeel.
Biting into one, you can distinctly feel the contrast between the delicate bread and the robust filling. A creamy dressing or cheese provide a smooth finish. These layers of texture prevent the sliders from feeling one-note or too heavy which is key for dishes at larger gatherings.
Popular Occasions
Game days, family movie nights and those summer barbecues are all favorites for buffalo sliders on hawaiian rolls.
The informal nature of the dish makes for easy serving for kids, teens and adults.
People reach for these sliders for potlucks and holiday shindigs.
Their make-aheadness is a weekday win.
Ingredients
Buffalo sliders on Hawaiian rolls As I’ve mentioned before, the right ingredients set the tone, and utilizing fresh, quality selections makes a distinct impact. Here’s a list of the must-haves and nice-to-haves, with best result suggestions. This list has the fundamentals, plus customizable toppings so you can customize the sliders to your palate or event.
- Ground chicken or turkey: 1 pound (450 grams)
- Hawaiian rolls: 12-count package (about 340 grams)
- Buffalo sauce: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Unsalted butter (for sauce): 2 tablespoons (28 grams)
- Cheddar cheese slices: 6 slices, halved (about 170 grams)
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon (4 grams)
- Onion powder: 1 teaspoon (4 grams)
- Kosher salt: 1/2 teaspoon (2 grams)
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1 gram)
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml), for cooking patties
- Optional ranch dressing: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Optional blue cheese crumbles: 1/3 cup (45 grams)
- Optional lettuce: 1 cup shredded (about 50 grams)
- Optional sliced red onion: 1/4 cup (25 grams)
- Optional sliced pickles: 1/4 cup (35 grams)
We use top notch, fresh ground chicken or turkey as the foundation for these sliders. Either will work, but ground chicken has a tendency to bind a little better and stays juicy. Hawaiian rolls are the secret for their hallmark softness and mild sweetness. Fresh rolls with a pillowy crumb will endure more and absorb flavor without sogging. Buffalo sauce adds the heat, opt for a store-bought variety for convenience or whip your own up with hot sauce and melted butter for added control over spice and tang.
Cheddar cheese is a classic for its sharp flavor + meltability, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack can be substituted if you want something milder or a little more spicy. Garlic powder and onion powder provide the meat with great flavor, while salt and pepper are simple yet essential. Olive oil assists the patties in browning and preventing sticking to a skillet or grill.
Toppings are optional and allow you to add your own twist to the sliders. Ranch dressing chills the spice and adds creaminess. Blue cheese crumbles add a bite and a more aggressive flavor. Lettuce provides crunch and freshness, while red onion and pickles offer sharpness and a touch of tang. Make sure all of your toppings are fresh, crisp and not wilted or overly processed.
Buffalo sauce is the soul of this recipe. If you’re feeling lazy, pre-made brands such as Frank’s RedHot provide reliability and ease. For a do-it-yourself twist, mix equal parts hot sauce and melted butter, then adjust with garlic or Worcestershire sauce to taste. That way, you can regulate the spice and saltiness to coordinate with the rest of your meal.
How to Make Sliders
These buffalo sliders on Hawaiian rolls are a quick but crowd-pleasing hit for any gathering or weeknight dinner. It’s all about cooking the meat, prepping the rolls, and layering bold flavors for a balanced bite. All of the steps are simple but reward you with flavor and presentation.
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Prepare the buffalo-style meat. First, brown your ground chicken or turkey in a skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently to crumble the meat and ensure it cooks uniformly. This will take around 8–10 minutes. When the meat is not pink any longer, add in your buffalo hot sauce. Mix until the meat is nicely coated and allow to simmer for another 2–3 minutes so the flavors can marry. For extra richness, a tablespoon of butter stirred in at the end can enhance both flavor and mouthfeel.
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Slice open the Hawaiian rolls and toast. Slice the rolls in half horizontally, leaving each dozen or so still connected at the edges to make assembly easier. Put both the tops and bottoms cut side up on a baking sheet. Toast them in a 350 degree oven for 4-5 minutes until just golden. This makes the bread stand up to the saucy meat and adds a nice crunch, which counteracts the soft, sweet rolls.
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To assemble, layer the meat, cheese, and toppings on the rolls. Spoon the hot buffalo meat evenly over the bottom half of the toasted rolls. Throw sliced provolone or mozzarella on top of the meat for a creamy melt. If you’re feeling frisky, sprinkle some thinly sliced green onions and/or a handful of crumbled blue cheese here for additional flavor. Return top half of rolls and squish down gently to keep together.
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Bake the sliders assembled to finish melting the cheese. Put the assembled sliders back in the oven, loosely covered with foil, to keep from over-browning. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until the cheese has melted and the sliders are warmed through. This step brings all the layers together–making sliders easy to serve AND eat! If you want the tops a little crisp, remove the foil for the last 2 minutes.
Serve the sliders straight from the baking sheet for a laidback feel or move to a platter for a slick presentation. These sliders go well with straightforward sides such as celery sticks or a crisp salad to balance the richness.
Customization
Buffalo sliders on Hawaiian rolls are a hit for all kinds of palettes and situations. Choose your own combination of toppings, spice and cheese for a spread that tastes unique yet still easy to share. Choices underneath allow you discover the combo that suits your occasion – whether you’re craving a subtle snack or a zingy little mouthful.
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Swap out cheeses: cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, blue cheese crumbles.
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Tweak heat: more or less buffalo sauce, add mild or hot sauce.
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Try toppings: avocado slices, caramelized onions, jalapeños, pickled red onions, crispy bacon, ranch or blue cheese dressing drizzle, shredded lettuce.
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Choose ground chicken, turkey or plant-based patties for the sliders.
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Add slaw: creamy coleslaw, fresh cabbage mix, or spicy slaw for crunch.
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California-style: add sliced tomato, lettuce and a thin layer of ranch.
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Go gluten-free with gluten-free rolls or lettuce wraps.
Flavors and Toppings
Little adjustments to toppings go a long way. Extra points if you add a few slices of avocado to give it a creamy flair and put out the fire from the buffalo sauce. Caramelized onions are golden if you’re craving a deep, sweet taste that pops next to the zesty sauce. Jalapeños add crunch and some serious kick, but you can enjoy pickled ones for less heat and more tang. Bacon crumbles or a drizzle of ranch can even out the spice but really help fill out the sliders. For those who prefer a fresh crunch, shredded lettuce or crisp cabbage provide crunch with minimal preparation.
Your choice of cheese alters the experience. Cheddar keeps it classic and sharp, and mozzarella adds a mild melt. For heat seekers, pepper jack melts great and spices things up. Blue cheese is powerful, so crumble on for a punchy, tangy finish that can stand up to the buffalo sauce. Combining two cheeses is another method to add more flavor with no additional effort.
Spice Level
Not all of us like the same heat. Keep everyone happy by beginning with a mild buffalo sauce and provide additional on the side. You could go lighter on the sauce in the mix, or dilute it with a little melted butter, for a mild, savory flavor. For extra heat, stir in a hot buffalo sauce or sprinkle in some cayenne or hot pepper flakes to the meat. If you’re doing a batch for a crowd, leave sliders mild and add heat through toppings so everyone can manage the kick.
Tinker with the sauce is fast, but it’s a huge impact. Sometimes just a teaspoon more or less transforms a slider from mild to spicy. This little modification is helpful when you’re serving both kids and parents.
Cheese Choices
Cheese is kinda the whole point of sliders. Cheddar is daring and melts perfectly. Mozzarella is mild, melts smooth and holds up great if you want the buffalo sauce to shine more than the cheese. Pepper jack provides a nice bite and melts well as well, giving the sliders a little more zest. Blue cheese is tangy and earthy, stands up to buffalo sauce for an iconic pairing, but it’s not for all.
A third trick to tailoring your sliders to the crowd is by mixing cheeses. Experiment with a slice of cheddar and a sprinkle of blue, or mix mozzarella and pepper jack for a gooey, mild foundation with a kick.
Unique Toppings
Avocado slices soothe the spice and provide creamy body. Caramelized onions are sweet and rich, and help take the bite out of the sauce. Jalapenos provide crunch and spice, fresh or pickled. Each topping keeps the sliders from tasting the same and you can spread them out on the side for a little build your own bar.
Crispy bacon bits bring salt and crunch, and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing cools the heat. Lettuce or cabbage adds a fresh, crisp snap.
Unique Dipping Sauces
Buffalo sliders on Hawaiian rolls have a ton of flavor on their own, but unique dipping sauces bring new dimensions and make every bite pop. Selecting the sauce involves considering flavor, consistency, and how well each complements the sweet rolls and tangy buffalo chicken. Here’s a table of some dipping sauces, what they taste like, and what each one is unique for.
| Sauce Name | Flavor Profile | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic Aioli | Creamy, savory, rich | Smooth, garlicky spread, adds depth |
| Honey Mustard | Sweet, tangy, mild heat | Balanced, not too sharp or too sweet |
| Chipotle Mayo | Smoky, spicy, creamy | Hints of smoke and chili, smooth |
| Yogurt Herb Dip | Cool, fresh, light | Greek yogurt, herbs, less fat |
| Sweet Chili Sauce | Sweet, spicy, sticky | Contrasts heat with a sugar kick |
| Bleu Cheese Dip | Sharp, creamy, salty | Classic, bold, cools down buffalo |
Flavor Combinations
Short dips & spreads – like this garlic aioli – are fantastic for those who crave a robust garlicky punch, minus the bite of raw garlic. Honey mustard combines sweet and tangy, making it a safe choice for most groups. Chipotle mayo is known for its smokiness and heat, a favorite for fans of spicy foods.
Yogurt herb dip is a winner for anyone looking to slash calories and not lose the flavor. Made with Greek yogurt, lemon and fresh herbs like dill or chives, it’s cool and light, great for mellowing out spicy sliders. Sweet chili sauce takes the opposite direction, providing a sticky-sweet-and-spicy punch that pops in contrast to the savory chicken. Bleu cheese dip is classic—salty and sharp, a go-to for buffalo anything.
Creative Homemade Options
It’s simple to whip up sauces on your own and you can adjust the flavor. Garlic aioli requires only mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Chipotle mayo – all you need is mayo and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, which are easily located in most grocery stores in LA. Honey mustard is just equal parts honey and mustard, with a splash of vinegar for added zing.
For a yogurt dip, combine Greek yogurt with lemon juice, chopped herbs and a touch of garlic. Which keeps things light but flavorful. Sweet chili sauce can be bought at the store, but homemade versions with red chili flakes, sugar and rice vinegar are easy and allow you to control the heat.
Pairing Suggestions
Serving up buffalo sliders with these sauces allows your guests to mix and match to their liking. Garlic aioli and chipotle mayo lend their own bold, creamy notes, while honey mustard and sweet chili sauce provide a sweeter counterpoint to the heat of buffalo chicken. Yogurt herb dip — refreshing and a great way to balance spice. In a town like LA, where you can find fresh herbs and specialty sauces at the drop of a hat, it’s easy to provide an array of options that seem at once comforting and innovative.
Garnishing Ideas
Garnishes don’t just dress up buffalo sliders on Hawaiian rolls, they bring crunch and color and flavor layers. A couple of thoughtful garnishes can make each slider pop — whether for a relaxed LA dinner party or chill meal at home. Good garnishes offset the heat and tang of buffalo sauce and make the entire bite more well-rounded!
- Thinly sliced green onions or scallions
- A handful of fresh cilantro leaves
- Diced celery or celery ribbons
- Toasted sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning
- Drizzle of extra buffalo sauce or creamy ranch
- Pickled jalapeño slices or pickled red onions
- Shredded carrot or radish matchsticks
- Light sprinkle of flaky sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Thin slices of avocado
Seeds and Seasonings
Here’s a tip, sprinkle some sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top of your rolls before baking for an easy crunch and nutty flavor! Everything bagel seasoning – typically including sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt – adds a savory note that complements buffalo sauce. A light dusting before the sliders go in the oven sticks to the tops and toasts up beautifully, adding just a little more zing to each bite and a nice contrast in texture.
Sauces and Drizzles
It’s that drizzle of extra buffalo sauce that adds shine and that punch of color that makes the sliders look even more inviting. If you’re looking to tame the heat, a swipe of ranch or blue cheese dressing across the top does wonders. These sauces not only make the sliders pop but really tie the flavors together, especially with the sweet, soft Hawaiian rolls.
Sauce can be as easy as squeezing a thin line in a zigzag pattern over sliders, using a squeeze bottle. Or splotch on the sauce for a more rustic appearance. For a crowd, have both buffalo and ranch drizzles on the side, so that your guests can customize.
Pickled Garnishes
Pickled jalapeños or red onions provide a nice punchy, acidic contrast that slices through the richness of the buffalo chicken. The vinegar in pickled garnishes adds brightness and pop of color, preventing the sliders from feeling dense. Red onions, sliced thin and quick-pickled in apple cider vinegar, turn a gorgeous pink hue and mellow out. Jalapeños contribute a mild heat and their acidity.
These garnishes are simple to make ahead and keep in the refrigerator. Simply sprinkle a few slices atop each slider prior to serving OR plate ’em and guests can garnish them themselves!
Fresh Finishes
Cilantro or green onions give a fresh, herbal note that pairs beautifully with buffalo flavors. Celery ribbons or shredded carrots add a crisp bite and a salute to those classic buffalo wing sides. A sliver of avocado lends creaminess and a mild contrast to the heat.
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or fresh black pepper right before serving will help all those flavors pop. All of these garnishes are simple to source and prep, and they give the sliders a refined, colorful appearance.
Preparation and Storage
Buffalo sliders on Hawaiian rolls are the perfect make-ahead appetizer that you can store and reheat. These easy prepping and storage actions are a lifesaver for anyone preparing for a party, game night or hectic week.
Prepping Ahead
Sliders are icing on the cake for advance prep. You can make the buffalo chicken, beef or turkey a day or two in advance. Remove the meat, let it cool and transfer to an airtight container. When it’s time to put ’em together, simply slice open the Hawaiian rolls, spoon on the meat, cheese or toppings and bake/heat. For instance, if you’re using shredded buffalo chicken, prepare it the night before and keep it refrigerated. Assembly takes minutes when friends show up.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Refrigerate them and they’ll keep for up to three days. Don’t leave them on the counter, as the rolls can dry out and the filling can go bad! If you only have a few sliders remaining, wrap each individually in plastic wrap or foil before putting into a container. This aids in sealing in moisture and preventing staleness in the rolls.
Reheating Sliders
Reheating sliders in the oven is best for maintaining soft bread and warm filling. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the sliders on a baking sheet and tent with foil. Heat for approximately 10 minutes, or until the centers are heated. Never nuke it if you can help it, as that tends to make the rolls chewy and tough. For a crispier top, peel back the foil halfway through reheating. If you’re pressed for time, the microwave will do, but use a lower setting and heat in short bursts so the sliders don’t dry out.
Freezing for Later
Cooked bison freezes beautifully and enables speedy slider assembly time down the road. Spoon the cooled meat into a freezer bag or container, label and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight or heat gently on the stove. Building fresh sliders with thawed meat is just as simple as it is from the fridge! Do NOT freeze assembled sliders, because the rolls get mushy.
Side Dish Pairings
With buffalo sliders on hawaiian rolls combining spicy, sweet and savory flavors, choosing the perfect side is important! The best sides complement the meal, complement the flavors, and keep things uncomplicated for buffet or weeknight dinners.
Crispy Fries, Sweet Potato Wedges, or Onion Rings
Fries are the traditional side. Shoestring, crinkle-cut or steak fries, all work. They provide a salty crunch to offset the sliders’ heat. Sweet potato wedges are a solid choice if you’re looking for some sweetness to compliment those rolls. They roast up crisp in the oven and the natural sugars play nicely with buffalo sauce. Onion rings, with their crispy breading and tearily sweet punch, introduce another dimension of crunch and bite. Serve them hot, with ranch or blue cheese on the side, for dipping.
Fresh Green Salad or Coleslaw
A green salad offers a cool, crisp bite to counter the richness of buffalo sauce. Baby greens with grape tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provide a nice clean, fresh background. If slaw’s your thing, classic cabbage-and-carrot coleslaw in a zippy, creamy dressing is an old-fashioned companion to spicy sliders. Coleslaw’s crunch and sweetness slice through the spice and keep the meal feeling fresh. Both salad and slaw are easy to prep ahead, which makes them great for parties or busy weeknights.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted veggies are a healthy side that complemented a healthy plate. Toss broccoli, cauliflower, or carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast until golden. The caramelized edges add a nutty flavor and the easy prep lets the veggies shine. Roasting makes everything in season shine—the zucchini in summer and brussel sprouts come fall. It’s a simple way to get some color and nutrition without really trying.
Chips and Guacamole or Veggie Platter
Chips and guac are an easy crowd favorite side. Tortilla chips provide crunch, while guac adds a creamy consistency and cool balance to the spicy heat of buffalo sauce. For something lighter, a veggie platter of carrots, celery and bell peppers works well, particularly for groups. Either one brightens up the table and allows guests to nibble at will.
Conclusion
Buffalo sliders on hawaiian rolls add kick and a touch of sweetness to every bite. They work for game nights, family occasions, or last-minute dinners. Experiment with different toppings or new sauces to keep it fresh. Sides such as fresh veggies and simple salads complete the dinner. These sliders store well and reheat fast, so no leftover buffalo goodness ever goes to waste. Friends and family can just grab ’em on the go or mix and match with dips. Whip up a batch for your next get together or dinner. Post your favorite twists or sauces to get other fresh ideas. Keep it simple, delicious, and playful—everybody can customize these sliders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes buffalo sliders on Hawaiian rolls unique?
Buffalo Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls! This equilibrium of flavors and sensations is why they’re so irresistible for get-together and parties around the globe.
Can I use chicken alternatives for buffalo sliders?
Yes, you can totally sub in plant-based or tofu patties as opposed to chicken! These substitutions hold up to buffalo sauce and are vegetarian/vegan friendly.
How do I prevent the sliders from becoming soggy?
Make sure to toast those Hawaiian rolls to perfection before you assemble. Plus, add any sauces right before serving to keep the sliders fresh and less soggy.
Are buffalo sliders on Hawaiian rolls spicy?
Buffalo sliders can be spicy, but you can control the heat. Use a mild buffalo sauce or dial down the spice by adding additional butter for all your guests.
How long can I store leftover buffalo sliders?
Keep any leftover sliders stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Warm them up in the oven or microwave before serving for best effect.
What are some popular side dishes to serve with buffalo sliders?
Favorite sides are cole slaw, veggie sticks, wedges or a green salad. These balance out the flavors and add variety to your meal.
Can I prepare buffalo sliders ahead of time?
Yup, you can make the patties and sauce ahead of time. Build the sliders right before serving, to maintain soft, fresh rolls.
