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Spooky Jack-O'-Lantern Burgers

These playful burgers feature juicy beef patties topped with melty cheese carved into fun Halloween faces. Bright bell peppers or cheese slices are used to create spooky expressions, while toppings and toasted buns complete the festive look. The result is a satisfying, messy, and delightful meal perfect for kids and adults alike, with crispy textures and cheesy goodness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds ground beef or veggie burger mixture preferably chuck and brisket blend for flavor
  • 4 slices cheddar or pepper jack cheese for melting on the patties
  • 2 bell peppers bell peppers preferably orange or yellow for bright colors
  • 4 burger buns burger buns lightly toasted
  • 1 cup lettuce fresh and crunchy
  • 1 tomato tomato sliced for topping
  • 1/2 cup pickles sliced
  • 1/4 cup spicy mayo or ketchup for spreading on buns
  • 1 pair pumpkin-shaped cutters or sharp knife for carving faces into cheese or peppers

Equipment

  • Grill or skillet
  • Carving knife
  • Spatula
  • Basting brush
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering, creating a nice sizzle when you add the patties.
  2. Divide the ground beef or veggie mixture into four equal portions and gently shape each into a slightly larger than bun-sized patty, pressing a shallow dent in the center to prevent bulging as they cook.
  3. Place the patties on the hot grill or skillet, cooking for about 4 minutes per side until they develop a deep caramelized crust and are cooked through.
  4. While the patties cook, slice the cheese into thinner pieces and prepare your toppings: slice the tomato, shred or slice the lettuce, and slice the pickles.
  5. Use a carving knife or sharp knife to carefully carve spooky faces into the slices of bell peppers or cheese slices, creating jack-o'-lantern expressions with eyes, nose, and mouth.
  6. Once the patties are nearly done, place slices of cheese on top, cover briefly with a lid or foil, and let melt for about 1 minute until gooey and inviting.
  7. While the cheese melts, lightly toast the burger buns cut sides on the grill or in a separate pan until golden brown and slightly crispy.
  8. Spread spicy mayo or ketchup on the toasted buns, then assemble each burger by layering lettuce, the cheesy patty with carved cheese, tomato slices, pickles, and the carved pepper faces on top.
  9. Finish by placing the top bun on each burger, gently pressing down to help everything stay together, and add any additional toppings or sauces as desired.
  10. Serve immediately with a side of crispy fries or a festive pumpkin salad, and enjoy the fun, messy, cheesy goodness of your Halloween burgers!

Notes

Ensure the carving tools are sharp for clean faces. Be gentle when carving to prevent cracking the cheese or peppers. For extra fun, use different face expressions or add small toppings for more character.