Go Back

Jack O' Lantern Burgers

These playful burgers feature juicy beef patties topped with roasted seasonal pumpkin slices and melted cheese, all nestled in toasted buns. The pumpkin is roasted to bring out its smoky sweetness, complementing the savory beef and spicy aioli. The final dish is a vibrant, cozy fall meal with a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (chuck and brisket mix) for juicy, flavorful patties
  • 2 pumpkin slices about 1/4 inch thick
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese optional, for melting
  • 4 tablespoons spicy aioli sriracha or chipotle mayo
  • 4 buns burger buns preferably brioche, toasted
  • 1 cup greens arugula or spinach
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for seasoning

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Grill or skillet
  • Baking sheet
  • Tongs
  • Spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F). Slice the pumpkin into thin, even rounds and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes until the edges are caramelized and the slices are tender, filling your kitchen with a sweet, toasted aroma.
  2. While the pumpkin roasts, form the ground beef into four equal patties, about 3/4 inch thick. Season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, then gently press a small indentation in the center of each to prevent bulging during cooking.
  3. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Place the beef patties on the grill and cook for about 4 minutes per side, or until well browned and cooked through, with a meat thermometer reading 71°C (160°F). During the last minute, place the buns cut-side down on the grill to toast until golden and slightly crispy.
  4. Once the pumpkin slices are roasted, carefully remove them from the oven and set aside. If using cheese, place a slice on each hot beef patty during the last 30 seconds of cooking to allow it to melt beautifully.
  5. Spread a generous dollop of spicy aioli on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Layer with fresh greens, followed by a beef patty topped with a melted cheese slice if desired, and a roasted pumpkin slice. Add more aioli if you like a spicy kick, then cap with the top bun.
  6. Serve the Jack O' Lantern Burgers immediately, enjoying the warm, smoky flavors and festive presentation that makes fall dinners special.

Notes

For an extra festive touch, carve small jack-o'-lantern faces into the pumpkin slices before roasting or arrange the toppings to resemble a jack-o'-lantern face. Feel free to customize with your favorite cheese or spicy condiments for a personalized twist.