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Close-up showing delicious Pumpkin Sliders, perfect for a fall appetizer or party snack.

Perfect Pumpkin Sliders

These Pumpkin Sliders are a savory and subtly sweet appetizer perfect for fall gatherings. Combining the warmth of pumpkin with savory ground meat and complementary toppings, these sliders are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the taste of autumn in every bite!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 slider buns Hawaiian rolls recommended
  • 1 pound ground turkey or beef
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Cheddar cheese slices
  • Caramelized onions
  • Arugula or spinach
  • Cranberry sauce optional
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Mixing Spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Large Skillet
  • Spatula
  • Small bowl (for maple mustard)
  • Whisk
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. If making maple mustard, whisk together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Adjust sweetness or tanginess to your liking and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey or beef, pumpkin puree, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
  3. Gently mix all ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
  4. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and form them into small patties, slightly smaller than the slider buns.
  5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  6. Carefully place the patties in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed.
  7. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the patties are cooked through and lightly browned. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty to melt.
  9. Slice the slider buns in half.
  10. Spread a little Maple Mustard on the bottom bun (if using).
  11. Place a cheesy pumpkin patty on the bottom bun.
  12. Add desired toppings: caramelized onions, arugula, cranberry sauce.
  13. Top with the other half of the slider bun.
  14. Serve immediately.

Notes

If patties are falling apart, add more breadcrumbs. Reduce pumpkin puree to 1/4 cup if the pumpkin flavor is too strong. Toast buns to prevent sogginess. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the patty mixture. Consider using plant-based ground meat or vegetarian sausage for a vegetarian option. Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda, Gruyere, or provolone. Add honey or brown sugar to the caramelized onions for extra sweetness.