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Jack O’ Lantern Burgers

These playful burgers feature juicy beef patties topped with charred, roasted pumpkin slices, creating a seasonal and visually fun dish. The pumpkins are grilled until tender and smoky, while the beef patties are seared to develop a flavorful crust, all assembled in soft buns with optional cheese and condiments. The final result is a warm, satisfying burger with a charming fall-inspired presentation.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small pumpkin or squash sugar pumpkin preferred
  • 500 grams ground beef 80/20 fat ratio
  • 4 buns burger buns brioche or potato rolls recommended
  • 4 slices cheese cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack
  • to taste condiments ketchup, mustard, spicy mayo, lemon juice optional
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or garlic powder optional for extra depth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing pumpkin and buns

Equipment

  • Grill or BBQ
  • Sharp knife
  • Tongs
  • Basting brush
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 200°C (390°F), and get ready to create those smoky flavors.
  2. Carefully slice the pumpkin into thin, manageable pieces, about 1/4 inch thick, and brush both sides with olive oil and a pinch of salt.
  3. Place the pumpkin slices on the grill, cooking for 4-5 minutes per side until they develop deep char marks and become tender enough to mash slightly when pressed.
  4. While the pumpkin grills, shape the ground beef into four equal patties about 150 grams each, and gently press a small indentation in the center of each to prevent puffing.
  5. Season the patties with salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika or garlic powder for added flavor.
  6. Once the grill is ready, sear the beef patties for about 4 minutes per side, flipping carefully with tongs until they develop a rich, brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 71°C (160°F).
  7. While the burgers cook, lightly toast the burger buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.
  8. Remove the pumpkin slices from the grill and set aside. If desired, place a slice of cheese on each burger patty during the last minute of grilling to melt slightly.
  9. Assemble the burgers by placing a beef patty on the bottom bun, topping with a grilled pumpkin slice, then adding condiments of your choice, and finally placing the top bun on top.
  10. Serve immediately while hot and juicy, and enjoy the fun, seasonal flavors of your Jack O’ Lantern Burgers!

Notes

For extra fun, add a slice of cheese to the burger during the final grilling minute. Rest the burgers for 3 minutes before serving to keep juices locked in. Feel free to customize with hot sauce, different cheeses, or extra condiments.