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Jack O’ Lantern Burgers

These playful burgers are made by shaping juicy ground beef patties infused with caramelized onions and smoky paprika, then topped with melty cheese and colorful bell pepper or cheese faces for a spooky Halloween twist. The burgers are grilled to develop a deep crust and smoky aroma, with vibrant faces that add fun and festive flair to any seasonal gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend) Juicy and tender, ideal for grilling
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion Adds sweetness and depth
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika For a smoky flavor
  • 4 slices cheddar or American cheese Melts beautifully on hot burgers
  • 1 red, yellow, or orange bell pepper For faces, sliced into small shapes
  • Optional additional cheese slices For face details or extra decoration

Equipment

  • Grill or heavy skillet
  • Small cookie cutters or sharp knife
  • Tongs
  • Spatula
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat, aiming for about 200°C (390°F). You should see a slight shimmer on the surface and hear gentle sizzling.
  2. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef with the finely chopped onion, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, just until evenly mixed. Avoid overworking the meat to keep the burgers tender.
  3. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and gently shape each into a thick, round patty about 2 cm (0.8 inch) thick. Press a slight indent in the center of each to prevent puffing up during cooking.
  4. Place the patties onto the hot grill or skillet, listening for a satisfying sizzle. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side until they develop a deep brown crust and release easily from the surface.
  5. Flip the burgers carefully using tongs and cook for another 4-5 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F) and the exterior is nicely charred.
  6. While the burgers cook, prepare your spooky faces by cutting small shapes from the bell peppers or cheese slices using cookie cutters or a sharp knife. Set aside for assembly.
  7. Once cooked, top each burger with a slice of cheese and cover briefly to melt, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. The cheese should be gooey and slightly bubbly.
  8. Remove the burgers from heat and let them rest for 3 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the burgers juicy.
  9. Assemble your spooky faces by placing the cut-out pepper or cheese shapes onto the melted cheese on each burger, creating eyes and mouths for your Jack O’ Lantern effect.
  10. Serve the burgers hot with your favorite sides, and enjoy the playful, festive presentation that’s perfect for Halloween celebrations!

Notes

For extra fun, use different colored peppers to create more colorful faces. Be gentle when handling the shapes to prevent tearing. You can also add a dollop of ketchup or mustard for extra flavor.