Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders

Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with these adorable Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders! Perfectly seasoned mini burgers are shaped like pumpkins and topped with a deliciously creamy sauce, making them a fun and festive addition to your holiday spread. These sliders are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults, adding a playful twist to your Thanksgiving desserts and savory dishes.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-10-18T11:39:21.997Z

These delightful sliders not only look festive but also capture the essence of fall flavors. By incorporating seasonal ingredients and presenting them in a fun shape, you're sure to impress your guests this Thanksgiving!

The Perfect Thanksgiving Appetizer

Thanksgiving gatherings are all about sharing delicious food, and these Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders make for the ideal appetizer to kick off your feast. Their unique shape not only delights the eyes but also sparks conversations around the table. These sliders can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your company instead of spending all your time in the kitchen on the big day.

With a perfect balance of savory flavors from the beef and a touch of sweetness from the sauce, they cater to diverse palates, making them a crowd favorite. Plus, the bright orange color brings a festive spirit to your holiday spread, creating an inviting atmosphere for family and friends.

Customizing Your Sliders

One of the best aspects of these Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders is their versatility. While the base recipe is delicious as it stands, you can easily tailor these sliders to fit your family's tastes. Consider adding cheese slices, sautéed onions, or even jalapeños for an extra kick. You can also substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based proteins for a healthier or vegetarian option.

Don't hesitate to experiment with your sauces, too! A spicy barbecue sauce or a tangy ranch dressing could elevate the sliders further. This hospitable customization aspect ensures everyone at your gathering finds something they love, fostering an inclusive and enjoyable dining experience.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the joy of your Thanksgiving meal, consider serving these sliders alongside traditional accompaniments. A fresh autumn salad with seasonal fruits, roasted vegetables, or a savory stuffing can create a mouthwatering combination. Pairing them with classic sides like sweet potato fries or creamy coleslaw can also elevate the flavor profile while maintaining the holiday spirit.

For a fun twist, you might offer a slider bar with different toppings and sauces. Let your guests craft their sliders with various options, creating a more interactive dining experience that's sure to entertain everyone, from kids to seniors, as they gather around the table.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Orange food coloring (optional)
Green bell pepper (for stems)

For the Sauce

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp mustard
1 tbsp honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to substitute with turkey or veggie patties for a healthier option.

Instructions

Prepare the Patties

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If desired, add orange food coloring to give the patties a pumpkin color.

Shape the Sliders

Form the beef mixture into small round patties. Use your thumb to create a small indentation on top of each patty and shape it slightly to resemble a pumpkin.

Cook the Sliders

Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sliders for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.

Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to create the sauce.

Assemble the Sliders

Once cooked, place each slider on a bun, top with the sauce, and garnish with a small piece of green bell pepper as a stem.

Serve warm and enjoy the festive atmosphere!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftover Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders, storing them properly is key to maintaining their deliciousness. Allow the sliders to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, ensuring the patties remain juicy.

For the sauce, you can store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. Its creamy consistency gets even better as the flavors meld together. Just give it a good stir before serving it again with your reheated sliders.

Incorporating Seasonal Ingredients

Embracing seasonal ingredients adds a special touch to your dishes and reflects the spirit of Thanksgiving. In addition to using fresh ground beef, consider adding a dash of pumpkin puree to the patties themselves for added moisture and a subtly sweet flavor. You could also sprinkle in some finely chopped cranberries for an unexpected pop of tartness that complements the savory elements perfectly.

Also, consider garnishing with other seasonal items. Thinly sliced cucumbers or fresh herbs like parsley can give the sliders an added freshness, making them more appealing and visually vibrant on your Thanksgiving table. Such thoughtful touches not only enhance the flavor but also showcase the bounty of the season.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape the patties and keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

They pair well with chips, a salad, or any traditional Thanksgiving sides.