Name: Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls; 6 slices cheddar cheese, cut into small rounds or pumpkin shapes; 2 tbsp ketchup or burger sauce; Pickles (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter; 12 pretzel sticks; Kitchen twine

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These pumpkin-shaped sliders are a fun, festive twist on classic mini burgers, perfect for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or Thanksgiving appetizers. With their adorable pumpkin shape, cheesy goodness, and savory beef filling, they’re just as tasty as they are cute.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these sliders combine delicious flavors with seasonal charm. They’re easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and the pumpkin shape adds a festive flair that always gets compliments. Whether I’m serving them to kids or adults, they disappear fast. I also enjoy how versatile they are—I can play with fillings, buns, and toppings to suit different preferences or dietary needs. Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
Cheddar cheese slices
Ketchup or burger sauce
Pickles (optional)
Salt and pepper
Olive oil or melted butter
Pretzel sticks (for the pumpkin “stem”)
Kitchen twine (for shaping)

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).
I season the ground beef with salt and pepper, then form small patties to fit my slider buns.
I cook the patties in a skillet over medium heat until they’re fully cooked.
Using kitchen twine, I gently tie each bun into a loose pumpkin shape, creating slight grooves without flattening the bread.
I brush the tops of the buns with olive oil or melted butter for a golden finish.
I cut cheddar cheese into circles (or pumpkin shapes if I’m feeling fancy) and place a slice on each cooked patty.
I assemble the sliders with sauce, pickles, and beef patties, placing the cheese-topped patties inside the shaped buns.
I bake the sliders for 5–8 minutes until the buns are slightly crispy and the cheese is melty.
I finish by removing the twine and sticking a pretzel stick into the top of each bun to make the pumpkin “stem.”

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 sliders and takes approximately 35 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s ideal for parties or as a fun dinner option for kids.

Variations

I sometimes swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, I use mini veggie patties or portobello mushrooms. I’ve also tried different cheeses like pepper jack or Swiss for a little flavor twist. If I want to make them spicy, I add jalapeños or a spicy mayo spread.

storage/reheating

I store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or warm them up in an air fryer. I avoid using the microwave since it can make the buns soggy. Pumpkin-Shaped Sliders

FAQs

How do I keep the pumpkin shape without squishing the buns?

I loosely tie the kitchen twine just enough to create light grooves, and I don’t pull too tight. This gives the buns shape without flattening them.

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep the patties and shape the buns ahead of time. I store everything separately and assemble just before baking.

What kind of buns work best for this recipe?

I usually use slider buns or Hawaiian rolls. They’re the perfect size and shape, and they hold up well in the oven.

Can I freeze these sliders?

Yes, I freeze the cooked patties separately and assemble fresh when ready. I don’t recommend freezing the assembled sliders since the buns can become soggy.

What dipping sauces go well with pumpkin-shaped sliders?

I like serving them with ketchup, mustard, ranch, or a smoky chipotle mayo. They pair well with a variety of sauces depending on the flavor profile I choose.

Conclusion

Pumpkin-shaped sliders are a charming and tasty way to bring the flavors of the season to my table. Whether I’m hosting a fall party or just adding a little fun to dinner, these sliders are always a hit. They’re easy to customize, simple to make, and packed with festive personality.