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Jack O’ Lantern Burgers

These playful burgers feature juicy ground beef patties topped with melted cheese and nestled between toasted buns. Roasted butternut squash slices, carved into jack-o'-lantern faces, add seasonal charm and a sweet, smoky flavor, making each bite both festive and cozy. The dish combines comfort, creativity, and a touch of Halloween fun in every mouthful.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 620
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef preferably 80/20 for juiciness
  • 2 small butternut squash sliced into thin rounds
  • 4 slices cheddar or pepperjack cheese for melting over burgers
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for brushing squash and burgers
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for added smoky flavor
  • 4 tablespoons spicy mayo or aioli for serving
  • 4 cups fresh greens such as lettuce or arugula
  • 4 buns burger buns to assemble the burgers

Equipment

  • Sharp paring knife
  • Grill or heavy skillet
  • Basting brush
  • Spatula
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat, around 200°C (390°F), and gather all your ingredients.
  2. Slice the butternut squash into thin, even rounds about 1/4 inch thick. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. Place the squash slices on the grill or skillet, cooking for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until they are tender and have a beautiful caramelized edge.
  4. While the squash roasts, gently mix the ground beef with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, then divide into four equal portions and shape each into a patty about 3/4 inch thick.
  5. Cook the burger patties on the grill or skillet for about 4 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 68°C (155°F). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
  6. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty to melt. Keep an eye on it so it melts evenly without sliding off.
  7. Remove the cooked squash from the heat and use a small paring knife to carve tiny jack-o'-lantern faces into each slice, creating a fun Halloween look.
  8. Toast the burger buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster for a golden finish, then spread spicy mayo on the bottom buns.
  9. Assemble each burger by layering greens, the cheesy burger patty, roasted squash 'pumpkin' with carved face, and finishing with the top bun.
  10. Drizzle a little extra spicy mayo on top if desired, and serve immediately while everything is warm and melty.

Notes

Ensure the squash slices are tender but still hold their shape for carving. Be careful when carving faces to avoid breaking the slices. For extra fun, get creative with the faces—smiles, spooky faces, or silly expressions all work well!