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Jack O' Lantern Burgers

These playful Halloween-inspired burgers are crafted by shaping juicy ground beef patties and searing them until caramelized. Carved mini pumpkins or peppers are roasted and used as festive, edible decorations, adding sweetness and vibrant color to the dish. Topped with melted cheddar and spicy mustard, they offer a fun, flavorful, and visually striking meal perfect for fall festivities.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g ground beef (80/20) for juicy, flavorful patties
  • 2 small mini pumpkins or orange peppers for carving and roasting
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese melty and sharp
  • 2 tbsp spicy mustard Dijon or whole grain
  • 4 buns burger buns toasted for crunch
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika adds depth and smoky flavor
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for searing
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Heavy skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Paring knife
  • Baking sheet
  • Spatula
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Mix the ground beef with finely chopped onions, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently combine until evenly incorporated, then form into four thick patties about 1.5 cm thick.
  2. Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once shimmering, carefully place the patties in the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until deeply caramelized and cooked through, checking that the internal temperature reaches 71°C/160°F.
  3. While the burgers cook, carve small faces into the halved mini pumpkins or orange peppers using a paring knife. Be creative with the faces for a festive look.
  4. Place the carved pumpkins or peppers on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 200°C/392°F for about 15 minutes until they are tender and have slightly charred edges.
  5. While the pumpkins or peppers roast, toast the burger buns lightly in the same skillet or oven until golden brown for added crunch.
  6. Lay the bottom bun on a plate, spread a layer of spicy mustard, and place a cooked burger patty on top. Add a slice of cheddar cheese while the patty is still hot so it melts slightly.
  7. Top the cheese-covered patty with the roasted, carved pumpkin or pepper. Finish with the top bun and serve immediately for a fun, festive presentation.

Notes

For extra fun, let kids help carve the faces and assemble the burgers. Keep a close eye on the pumpkins or peppers while roasting to prevent burning. Use a thermometer to ensure the burger is perfectly cooked and juicy.