In October, I like to get a bit goofy with my cooking. These Jack O’ Lantern Burgers are just that—bright, playful, and packed with a little surprise in the middle. They’re perfect for a casual get-together or a festive dinner that makes everyone smile.
Why I Keep Making These Burgers
They’re a perfect balance of chaos and comfort—each bite is a little surprise, a bit nostalgic, and a lot of fun to assemble. Plus, they make me smile every time I see that gooey cheese and bright orange filling peeking out.
Ingredients Breakdown & Tips
- Ground beef: Opt for 80/20 for juicy, flavorful burgers. Leaner beef dries out faster.
- Cheddar cheese: Melted, it adds a smoky, gooey layer—think aged for a sharper flavor.
- Pumpkin puree: Adds moisture and a subtle sweetness—use canned or homemade.
- Spicy mustard: Bright and tangy, it complements the richness of the beef—try Dijon for zest.
- Crispy lettuce: Adds crunch and freshness—rinsed and thoroughly dried beforehand.
- Caramelized onions: Sweet, tender, with a deep umami—cook slowly until dark and sweet.
- Burger buns: Soft yet sturdy—boppy enough to hold all the fillings without falling apart.
Tools & Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or cast-iron skillet: To sear and cook the burgers evenly.
- Spatula: To flip the patties without breaking them.
- Measuring spoon: To portion the fillings evenly.
- Thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the burgers.
- Knife and cutting board: For preparing toppings and fillings.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Jack O’ Lantern Burgers
Step 1: Start by shaping your burger patties a bit larger than your buns, since they’ll shrink as they cook.
Step 2: Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high, about 190°C (375°F), until hot and shimmering.
Step 3: Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they develop a nice sear and the juices run clear.
Step 4: While the burgers cook, slice some cheese and get your toppings ready—think crispy lettuce, caramelized onions, and a spicy mustard.
Step 5: Once cooked, let the burgers rest for 3 minutes; this keeps the juices inside and makes for a juicier bite.
Step 6: Assemble by placing the patty on the bun, then add your toppings and a dollop of sauce. Cover with the top bun and serve hot.
Cooking Checkpoints & Tips to Keep in Mind
- Ensure the grill or pan is hot enough before adding the patties to get a good sear.
- Check the internal temperature—aim for 70°C (160°F)—for safe and perfect doneness.
- Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling juices to know when it’s ready to flip.
- If the cheese isn’t melting fast enough, cover the pan for a minute to trap heat.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
- Cooking without checking internal temp.? Use a thermometer to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
- Cutting into hot burgers right away.? Rest the burgers briefly before serving.
- Over-torched exterior before cooked inside.? Turn the heat down slightly if the crust burns too quickly.
- Filling oozes out and makes a mess.? Make sure fillings are not too wet.
Jack O’ Lantern Burgers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chop the onion thinly and cook it slowly over medium heat in a skillet with a little oil until it becomes deep golden brown and sweet-smelling, about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with pumpkin puree and spicy mustard. Gently mix until just incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Divide the beef mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a slightly larger patty than your buns, creating a small well in the center of each for the fillings.
- Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat until hot and shimmering, around 190°C (375°F). Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until they develop a nice sear and the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F).
- While the burgers cook, slice the cheddar cheese and prepare your toppings: crispy lettuce leaves and caramelized onions.
- Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate and let them rest for 3 minutes to retain their juices.
- Top each burger with a slice of cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt slightly from the heat of the patty, about 1-2 minutes.
- Spread a little spicy mustard on the bottom bun, then place the burger with cheese on top. Add caramelized onions and crisp lettuce, then cover with the top bun.
- Serve the burger hot, with the bright orange pumpkin filling slightly oozing out and a golden-brown crust on the beef. Enjoy the playful, festive flavors!
Founded by Rachel Morgan, a proud home cook and foodie from Austin, Texas, this blog is all about transforming everyday meals into moments of joy.