7 Halloween BBQ Recipes from the Renowned Chef Aaron Franklin

No wonder Franklin Barbecue is loved and celebrated by everyone across the country. The man behind the brand, Aaron Franklin is not only passionate about BBQ, but also the most critically acclaimed chef of our times. Since Halloween is around the corner, we decided to extract a list of Halloween BBQ recipes from his playbook.  

This collection of recipes will turn your kitchen into a witch’s cauldron of culinary delights. From the savory Pumpkin Spice BBQ Ribs to the monstrous Monster Burgers, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. 

With a mix of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors, these recipes are perfect for celebrating Halloween. So, grab your witch’s hat and apron, and let’s get cooking! 

Halloween BBQ: Pumpkin Spice BBQ Ribs 

The warm, soothing aromas of pumpkin spice are combined to provide a unique take on the traditional ribs. The sweet and savory combination is perfect for a Halloween BBQ. Imagine the tender, smoky ribs falling off the bone, coated in a rich, pumpkin spice-infused barbecue sauce. The aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves fills the air, creating a truly festive atmosphere for your Halloween BBQ. 

Preparation Time: 

2hrs 

Ingredients: 

• 1 kg of pork ribs 

• 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree 

• 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar 

• 1/4 cup of honey 

• 2 tbsp of pumpkin pie spice 

• 1 tbsp of garlic powder 

• 1 tbsp of onion powder 

• 1 tsp of salt 

• 1/2 tsp of black pepper 

Kitchen Tools Needed: 

• Grill 

• Mixing bowl 

• Measuring spoons 

• Baking sheet 

• Basting brush 

Instructions: 

• Preheat the grill to medium heat. 

• In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, apple cider vinegar, honey, pumpkin pie spice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined to create the BBQ sauce. 

• Place the pork ribs on a baking sheet and generously coat them with the pumpkin spice BBQ sauce on all sides. 

• Let the ribs marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer in the refrigerator for more flavor. 

• Once marinated, place the ribs on the grill and cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours, turning occasionally, and basting with extra sauce to keep them moist. 

• Cook the ribs until the meat is easy to pull off the bone. Then, take them off the grill and let them sit for a few minutes. 

Macros: 

• Total Calories: 624kcal 

• Carbs: 34g 

• Proteins: 72g 

• Fats: 30g 

Ghostly Grilled Chicken Skewers 

These skewers are a fun and spooky way to enjoy grilled chicken at your Halloween BBQ. The chicken is marinated in a tangy ghost pepper sauce, giving it a spicy kick. The skewers are arranged in the shape of ghosts, complete with googly eyes and a sprinkle of black sesame seeds. The combination of the spicy ghost pepper sauce and the smoky grilled chicken is a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds tingling at your Halloween BBQ. 

Preparation Time: 

35 mins 

Ingredients: 

• 600g of chicken breast, cut into cubes 

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil 

• 1 tablespoon of garlic powder 

• 1 teaspoon of paprika 

• Salt to taste 

• Pepper to taste 

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped into squares 

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped into squares 

• 1 onion, quartered 

Kitchen Tools Needed: 

• Grill 

• Skewers 

• Mixing Bowl 

• Grill Brush 

Instructions: 

• In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken cubes, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated by stirring vigorously. 

• Let the mixture marinate for at least 15 minutes for enhanced flavor. 

• If using wooden skewers, soak them in water while the chicken marinates to avoid scorching them. 

• Once marinated, alternate threading the chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto the skewers. 

• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and brush it lightly with oil. 

• After the chicken is nicely grilled and has cooked through, place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, turning them over once or twice. 

• Once done, remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. 

Macros: 

• Total Calories: 505kcal 

• Carbs: 14g 

• Proteins: 80g 

• Fats: 22g 

Spooky Smoked Meatloaf 

This meatloaf is a classic barbecue dish with a spooky twist, perfect for your Halloween BBQ. It’s shaped like a ghost and served with a gooey, cheesy topping. The meatloaf is packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and your favorite seasonings. The cheesy topping is melted to perfection, creating a gooey, oozy mess that is both visually appealing and incredibly delicious. 

Preparation Time: 

1hr 30mins 

Ingredients: 

• 500g of ground beef 

• 100g of smoked bacon, diced 

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped 

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 

• 1 tsp of smoked paprika 

• 1 tsp of dried oregano 

• 1/2 tsp of black pepper 

• 1/2 tsp of salt 

• 100g of breadcrumbs 

• 2 large eggs 

• 50ml of tomato sauce 

• 2 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce 

• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley 

Kitchen Tools Needed: 

• loaf pan 

• mixing bowl 

• smoker or oven 

• meat thermometer 

Instructions: 

• Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). 

• The ground beef, smoked paprika, oregano, black pepper, sliced bacon, onion, and garlic should all be combined in a mixing dish. 

• Add the breadcrumbs, eggs, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped parsley into the mixture and mix until well combined, but don’t overmix. 

• Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it into a loaf pan. 

• Place the loaf in the smoker or oven and cook for about 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F). 

• Once cooked, remove from the smoker or oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. 

Macros: 

• Total Calories: 570kcal 

• Carbs: 25g 

• Proteins: 40g 

• Fats: 35g 

Witch’s Cauldron Chili 

This hearty chili is perfect for a chilly fall day and a great addition to your Halloween BBQ. It’s packed with flavor and topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cheese. The chili is simmered for hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich, satisfying dish. To impart a creamy and tangy flavor to chili, add sour cream and cheese. It’s a perfect way to balance the heat.  

Preparation Time: 

1hr 35min 

Ingredients: 

• 500g of ground beef 

• 200g of kidney beans 

• 200g of black beans 

• 2 medium onions, chopped 

• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 

• 2 red bell peppers, chopped 

• 2 green bell peppers, chopped 

• 400g of diced tomatoes 

• 100g of tomato paste 

• 2 tablespoons of chili powder 

• 1 tablespoon of cumin 

• 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika 

• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon 

• Salt to taste 

• Black pepper to taste 

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil 

Kitchen Tools Needed: 

• Large pot 

• Wooden spoon 

• Knife 

• Cutting board 

• Measuring cups 

• Spices jar 

Instructions: 

• Heat olive oil in a pan. Soften the onions and garlic in the pan. Then, add ground beef and cook until it’s brown. 

• Add the red and green bell peppers and cook until softened. 

• Dump in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Give it a good stir. 

• Add all beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. 

• Cook the chili on low heat for 1-1.5 hours, stirring sometimes. Modify the seasoning according to personal taste. Serve it hot in bowls and put fresh herbs on top if you want. 

Macros: 

• Total Calories: 715kcal 

• Carbs: 50g 

• Proteins: 75g 

• Fats: 35g 

Creepy Corn on the Cob 

This corn is a fun and festive way to enjoy a classic barbecue side dish at your Halloween BBQ. It’s decorated with creepy crawly insects made of candy. The corn is grilled to perfection, with the kernels tender and juicy. The creepy crawly insects are a fun and festive touch that will add a touch of whimsy to your Halloween BBQ. 

Preparation Time: 

45mins 

Ingredients: 

• 4 ears of corn, husked 

• 1/4 cup of olive oil 

• 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast 

• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder 

• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika 

• Salt to taste 

• 1/2 cup of black olives, pureed 

• 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley 

• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper 

Kitchen Tools Needed: 

• Grill 

• Baking sheet 

• Mixing bowl 

• Knife 

• Spoon 

• Food processor 

Instructions: 

• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. 

• In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt to create a marinade. 

• Brush the corn with the marinade, ensuring each ear is evenly coated. 

• Encase the corn in aluminum foil and grill it for approximately 30-40 minutes, intermittently rotating it to ensure even cooking. 

• While the corn is grilling, prepare the black olive puree by blending the black olives until smooth. 

• When the corn is done, take it off the grill and let it cool a little before opening it. 

• Drizzle the pureed black olives over each ear of corn to create a creepy effect. 

• Sprinkle chopped parsley for a touch of color and cayenne pepper for spice. 

• Serve hot and enjoy your creepy corn on the cob. 

Macros: 

• Total Calories: 650kcal 

• Carbs: 84g 

• Proteins: 10g 

• Fats: 26g 

Monster Burgers 

These burgers are perfect for kids and adults alike and a must-have for your Halloween BBQ. They’re topped with a monster face made of cheese and vegetables. The burgers are made with juicy, flavorful beef patties and served on toasted buns. The monster faces are created using a variety of cheeses and vegetables, such as eyes made of olives and teeth made of carrots. Burgers are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike, and monster faces are a fun and festive way to add a touch of Halloween spirit to your Halloween BBQ. 

Preparation Time: 

25 mins 

Ingredients: 

• 800g of ground turkey 

• 200g of quinoa 

• 1 large onion, finely chopped 

• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 

• 2 tsp of smoked paprika 

• 1 tsp of salt 

• 1/2 tsp of black pepper 

• 4 tbsp of olive oil 

• 4 gluten-free burger buns 

• 1 avocado, sliced 

• 200g of mixed greens 

• 100g of dairy-free cheese 

Kitchen Tools Needed: 

• Grill 

• Mixing Bowl 

• Spatula 

• Measuring Cups 

• Baking Sheet 

Instructions: 

• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. 

• In a mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, quinoa, chopped onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined. 

• Make 4 big burger patties from the mixture. Apply a dash of olive oil on either side of the patties.

• Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). 

• While the burgers are grilling, prepare the gluten-free buns by lightly toasting them on the grill until golden brown. 

• Once the burgers are done, assemble your monster burgers by placing each patty on a bun, topped with slices of avocado, a sprinkle of dairy-free cheese, and a handful of mixed greens. 

Macros:  

• Total Calories: 520kcal 

• Carbs: 30g 

• Proteins: 45g 

• Fats: 22g 

Oozy BBQ Brisket Sliders 

These slides are a delicious and messy way to enjoy barbecue brisket at your Halloween BBQ. They’re topped with a gooey cheese sauce and a drizzle of barbecue sauce. The brisket is slow-cooked until it is tender and juicy, and the cheese sauce is melted to perfection. The slides are served on small buns, making them easy to eat and perfect for sharing. The combination of the tender brisket, the gooey cheese sauce, and the tangy barbecue sauce is a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more at your Halloween BBQ. 

Preparation Time: 

6hrs 30mins 

Ingredients: 

• 500g of beef brisket 

• 2 tablespoons of smoked paprika 

• 1 tablespoon of garlic powder 

• 1 tablespoon of onion powder 

• 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper 

• 250ml of beef broth 

• 100ml of barbecue sauce 

• 4 slider buns 

• 50g of coleslaw 

• Salt to taste 

• Pepper to taste 

Kitchen Tools Needed: 

• Smoker 

• Grill 

• Chef’s knife 

• Cutting board 

• Mixing bowl 

• Basting brush 

Instructions: 

• Preheat the smoker to 110°C (225°F). 

• Rub the brisket with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. 

• Place the rubbed brisket in the smoker and cook for approximately 6-8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 91°C (195°F). 

• Periodically add beef broth to prevent dryness. 

• Once cooked, remove the brisket and let it rest for 30 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain. 

• In a mixing bowl, combine thinly sliced brisket with barbecue sauce until well-coated. 

• Grill the slider buns until they are golden brown and toasted. 

• Assemble the slides by placing a generous portion of BBQ brisket on the bottom bun, followed by a scoop of coleslaw, and topping it with the upper bun. 

Macros: 

• Total Calories: 610kcal 

• Carbs: 50g 

• Proteins: 60g 

• Fats: 30g 

Conclusion 

Get ready for a frightfully delicious Halloween BBQ. This collection of recipes is sure to impress your guests with its monstrous flavors and spooky presentation. From the pumpkin-spiced ribs to the ghostly chicken skewers and the monstrous burgers, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, these recipes are easy to follow and will make your Halloween party a memorable one. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and let the spooky feast begin. 

FAQs 

1. Can I substitute the pumpkin puree in the Pumpkin Spice BBQ Ribs with another ingredient?

Yes, you can. While pumpkin puree provides a unique flavor and sweetness, you can substitute it with applesauce or sweet potato puree for a similar consistency and a slightly different taste. 

2. What can I use instead of ghost peppers in the Ghostly Grilled Chicken Skewers for a milder flavor?

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the ghost peppers with milder chili peppers like jalapenos or banana peppers. These will still add a touch of heat without being overpowering. 

3. Can I make Spooky Smoked Meatloaf vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely. To make the meatloaf vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein like ground lentils or tempeh. You can also use vegan cheese for the topping. 

4. What are some other side dish ideas to complement the Halloween BBQ feast?

Here are some side dish ideas:  

• Roasted vegetables with a spooky seasoning blend 

• Halloween-themed potato salad 

• Spooky-looking deviled eggs 

• Creepy cornbread muffins 

5. How can I make Monster Burgers more kid-friendly?

To make the Monster Burgers more kid-friendly, you can use milder cheese like cheddar or mozzarella. You can also omit the spicy ingredients in the burger patties if desired. Additionally, get creative with the monster faces using friendly shapes and colors to appeal to children.