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Jack O’ Lantern Burgers

These playful burgers feature creatively carved pumpkin faces atop juicy beef patties melted with smoky cheddar cheese. The process involves shaping, carving, grilling, and assembling to create a visually spooky yet comforting dish with a crispy bun finish and oozing cheese. Perfect for celebrating the season with a touch of Halloween fun and flavor.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g ground beef preferably 20% fat for juiciness
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese smoky and melty
  • 2 large onions for caramelizing
  • 4 burger buns burger buns soft and sturdy
  • 1 small pumpkin for carving faces
  • 1 leaf lettuce for crunch
  • 1 tomato tomato sliced
  • spicy ketchup or mustard spicy ketchup or mustard for serving

Equipment

  • Grill or stovetop skillet
  • Carving knives & spoons
  • Spatula & tongs
  • Baking sheet & foil
  • Brush

Method
 

  1. Shape the ground beef into four evenly sized patties, about 1.5 cm thick, and set aside.
  2. Heat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat, and place the patties on once hot, hearing a satisfying sizzle.
  3. Cook the patties for about 4 minutes on each side until browned and slightly charred, then top each with a slice of cheese.
  4. Cover the skillet or close the grill lid to help the cheese melt beautifully, about 1 minute, until gooey and bubbling.
  5. While the burgers cook, peel and thinly slice the onions, then caramelize them in a pan over medium heat until golden and sticky, about 15 minutes.
  6. Using carving knives and spoons, carefully carve spooky faces into the small pumpkin, creating eyes, nose, and a jagged mouth for a festive look.
  7. Slice the tomato and wash the lettuce leaves, preparing all toppings for assembly.
  8. Lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster, about 2 minutes, until golden and crisp.
  9. Assemble each burger by placing a lettuce leaf and tomato slice on the bottom bun, then add the beef patty with melted cheese.
  10. Gently set the carved pumpkin face pieces on top of each burger, creating a spooky face design.
  11. Finish by topping with the other half of the bun, then garnish with caramelized onions and a drizzle of spicy ketchup or mustard.
  12. Serve immediately, marveling at your spooky, cheesy Jack O’ Lantern burgers that are as fun to look at as they are to eat!