Barbecue Pumpkin Ideas for Halloween: What to Do With Your Leftover Pumpkin

Halloween is a time for spooky fun, creepy decorations, and, of course, jack-o'-lanterns. But what happens to that leftover pumpkin after you've carved out the face for your front porch? Instead of tossing it out, why not fire up your BBQ and turn your leftover pumpkin into something delicious? This Halloween, we’re showing you how to get the most out of your pumpkin after it’s been carved, with tasty BBQ recipes and tips for turning your pumpkin scraps into a mouth-watering treat.

1. Carve Your Pumpkin, Then Cook It!

Once you've had your fun carving your pumpkin for Halloween, you’re left with the stuff inside. Here’s a perfect opportunity to make something new on the BBQ! While your pumpkin may have been meant for decoration, it can easily be transformed into an edible delight with just a little bit of BBQ magic.

Here’s How To Prepare Your Carved Pumpkin For BBQing:

• Save the Flesh: When you carve your jack-o'-lantern, scoop out the seeds and stringy bits, but don’t throw away the flesh! The pumpkin flesh is packed with flavour and can be turned into a variety of BBQ-friendly dishes. Simply slice the already carved pumpkin bits into chunks or wedges to make it BBQ-ready.
   
• Season Well: Coat the pumpkin slices with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favourite BBQ spices. Cinnamon, paprika, and brown sugar will bring out the natural sweetness, while a little garlic and thyme can add a savoury kick.

2. Grilled BBQ Pumpkin: A Spooky Treat

Once your pumpkin is prepped, it’s time to get grilling! BBQing your pumpkin brings out a rich, smoky flavour that makes for a tasty side dish or even the star of your Halloween BBQ. The best part? It’s easy!

BBQing Tips:

• Direct Heat Cooking: Preheat your BBQ to medium-high heat. Place the pumpkin slices directly on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning occasionally to ensure an even char. The result will be crispy edges with tender, caramelised pumpkin on the inside.
   
• Baste for Extra Flavour: While your pumpkin is cooking, baste it with melted butter, maple syrup, or a glaze of your choice. This will help create a nice, smoky caramelisation and enhance the pumpkin's natural sweetness.
   
• Smoked Pumpkin: If you’ve got a smoker, smoking your pumpkin is the way to go. Set your BBQ up for indirect heat, place the pumpkin slices on the cooler side, and throw in some wood chips. Hickory or applewood works best for giving the pumpkin a deep, rich flavour. Smoke it for about 45 minutes to an hour.
   

3. BBQ Pumpkin Side Dishes

Now that you've grilled or smoked your pumpkin, the possibilities are endless for what you can create with it! Here are a few Halloween-inspired ideas for incorporating your leftover carved pumpkin into your BBQ spread:

• BBQ Pumpkin Salad: Toss your grilled pumpkin with arugula, crumbled feta, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a spooky salad that’ll wow your guests. The smokiness from the BBQ pairs beautifully with the creamy feta and the tangy balsamic.
   
• Pumpkin Soup: For a warming Halloween treat, blend your roasted pumpkin with vegetable stock and cream to make a silky-smooth soup. Add a touch of cumin or nutmeg for that extra autumn flavour. This is perfect for a chilly October evening.
   
• Pumpkin & Bacon Skewers: Alternate chunks of BBQ pumpkin with crispy bacon on skewers and grill them until the pumpkin is caramelized and the bacon is sizzling. A little honey glaze at the end will give it the perfect sweet-salty balance.
   

4. Sweet BBQ Pumpkin Desserts

Halloween isn’t just about the spooky decorations, it’s also about the treats! If you have leftover pumpkin from your jack-o’-lantern, you can even make a BBQ dessert that’s both unique and delicious.

Here’s how to turn pumpkin into a sweet treat on the BBQ:

• Spiced BBQ Pumpkin Slices: After seasoning your pumpkin with cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar, grill the slices until they’re soft and caramelised. Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple and irresistible Halloween dessert.
   
• BBQ Pumpkin Pie: If you're up for a challenge, why not make a pumpkin pie and bake it on the BBQ? The smoky BBQ flavour adds a unique twist to the traditional dessert, making it a showstopper treat that others won't have.
   

5. Don’t Forget the Seeds: BBQ Pumpkin Seeds

While you're working with your pumpkin, don’t forget about the seeds! These little gems are perfect for a crunchy snack after they’ve been BBQ’d. Simply wash off the pumpkin flesh, toss the seeds with some olive oil and spices (try paprika or garlic salt), and cook them on the BBQ over indirect heat until they’re crispy. It’s a fun, waste-free way to get the most out of your pumpkin.

Final Thoughts: Maximise Your Leftover Pumpkin This Halloween

So, this Halloween, don’t just let your carved pumpkin go to waste. Instead, fire up the BBQ and turn it into something special. Whether you’re grilling, smoking, or making a sweet treat, there’s no reason your leftover pumpkin can’t be the star of your Halloween BBQ. Your friends and family will be impressed by the smoky, caramelised flavours and the creative dishes you serve. So, carve away and get cooking, the BBQ pumpkin possibilities are endless!

Make your Halloween BBQ even easier with the right accessories! A basting brush, heat-resistant gloves, and premium charcoal will elevate your cooking game. Browse our full range of BBQ gear at BBQ Spit Rotisseries and get everything you need for a spook-tacular BBQ night!

by: Sasha Halabi