Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders have become a new fall favorite in our house – and it all started with a trip to the local pumpkin patch last weekend. My kids were so excited to pick out the perfect pumpkins, and when we got home, I had an idea. “Why not make mini pumpkin-shaped burgers?” I asked them. Their eyes lit up, and we got to work.
The Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders turned out even better than I expected. Not only were they super fun and creative, but the flavor was out of this world. The pumpkin puree in the patties gave them a subtle sweetness, and the cinnamon-spiced buns were the perfect complement. Everyone in the family, from the pickiest eater to the most adventurous foodie, devoured them.
Now, Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders have become a regular on our meal rotation, especially during the fall season. I love that they’re easy to make, but still feel special and festive. Plus, the kids get a kick out of the pumpkin shape, which makes mealtime a little more exciting. If you’re looking for a new recipe to try this autumn, I highly recommend giving these Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders a shot. They’re sure to become a new family favorite!
Table of Contents
Why This Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders
What makes this Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders recipe so delicious and unique? It all comes down to the special techniques I’ve developed over the years. First, the patties get their signature pumpkin flavor from a secret ingredient – pumpkin puree! This adds a subtle sweetness and keeps the meat super moist and tender.
The buns are also a game-changer. I like to sprinkle them with a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking, which gives them a warm, autumnal taste that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin patties. And the pumpkin shape? That’s achieved by using a simple ring mold to form the patties. It’s such a fun and festive touch that’s sure to delight your family and guests.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these amazing Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders, you’ll need:
- Ground beef
- Pumpkin puree
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper
- Brioche buns
- Butter
- Cinnamon
- Sugar
The pumpkin puree and spices are what really make these sliders stand out, adding fantastic fall flavor. And the breadcrumbs and egg help bind the patties together for the perfect pumpkin shape. Of course, you’ll also need some soft, fluffy brioche buns to serve them on.
Step-by-Step Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders Instructions
Preparing Your Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders
Ready to get cooking? These Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders come together in just about 30 minutes, start to finish. You’ll need a mixing bowl, a rimmed baking sheet, and a ring mold or round cookie cutter to shape the patties.
1- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, pumpkin puree, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
2- Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each one into a small, round patty using the ring mold or cookie cutter. Place the shaped patties on the baking sheet.
3- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, cinnamon, and sugar. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the brioche buns.
4- Bake the Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders and buns in a preheated 400°F oven for 12-15 minutes, until the patties are cooked through and the buns are lightly golden.
5- Remove the buns and sliders from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
6- Assemble your Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders by placing a patty on each bun and serving immediately.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfect Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders is to not overwork the meat mixture. This will ensure your patties stay tender and juicy. I also recommend using a high-quality, lean ground beef for the best texture.
Be sure to really pack the meat mixture into the ring mold or cookie cutter to get that distinct pumpkin shape. And don’t be afraid to get creative with the bun toppings – you could try a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or even some crushed graham crackers for extra fall flavor.
Serving and Storing Your Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders
Perfect Pairings for Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders
These Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders are the ultimate autumn appetizer or main dish. They’d be perfect for a cozy family dinner, a Halloween party, or even Thanksgiving. I love serving them with roasted sweet potato fries, a crisp fall salad, or warm apple cider.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Luckily, Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders are super easy to make ahead and store. The uncooked patties can be shaped and frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before baking.
You can also bake the sliders ahead of time and reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes before serving. They’ll stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders
Creative Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders Variations
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders! Try swapping out the ground beef for turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter twist. You could also add in some shredded cheddar cheese or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
For a seasonal spin, why not make Thanksgiving-inspired Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders with cranberry sauce and stuffing-seasoned patties? Or go for a festive Halloween version with black buns and jack-o’-lantern faces piped on with mustard.
Making Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders Diet-Friendly
Watching your carbs or following a gluten-free diet? No problem! You can easily make these Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders work for you.
For a low-carb version, skip the buns and serve the pumpkin-shaped patties on a bed of greens or cauliflower rice. You can also use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs in the patty mixture.
And if you’re vegan or dairy-free, swap the butter on the buns for a plant-based alternative, and use an egg replacer in the patties. The pumpkin puree will still provide that delicious autumn flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned pumpkin puree instead of making my own?
A: Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works great in this recipe. Just be sure to get the unsweetened variety, not pumpkin pie filling.
Q: How long do the Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders take to bake?
A: The sliders will bake for 12-15 minutes in a 400°F oven. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. The patties should be cooked through and the buns lightly golden.
Q: Can I make the patties ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can shape the patties and freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
Q: How many Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders does this recipe make?
A: This recipe will yield 8 Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders, perfect for 4 servings as a main dish or 8 servings as an appetizer.
Q: Help! My Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders fell apart when I tried to cook them. What did I do wrong?
A: If your patties are falling apart, it’s likely that you overmixed the meat mixture. Be very gentle when combining the ingredients, and be sure not to overwork the meat. The breadcrumbs and egg should help hold everything together.
Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 12 sliders
Description
Discover the delightful flavors of fall with these Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders! These mini burgers are easy to make, perfectly seasoned, and sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 12 slider buns
Instructions
1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well incorporated.
2. 2. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each one into a small, round patty with a slight indent in the center to create the pumpkin shape.
3. 3. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook the pumpkin-shaped patties for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. 4. Serve the pumpkin-shaped sliders on the slider buns and enjoy!
Notes
For extra flavor, you can toast the buns before assembling the sliders. Leftover sliders can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited to try these Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders as I am! They’re the perfect way to bring the flavors of fall into your kitchen. Not only are they delicious, but the pumpkin shape makes them so fun and festive.
Whether you’re serving them for a cozy family dinner or a Halloween party, I guarantee these sliders will be a hit. Don’t be afraid to get creative with different flavor variations, too. I can’t wait to hear what you think – be sure to leave a comment and let me know how your Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders turn out!
