Halloween Monster Burgers
These spooky monster burgers are perfect for a Halloween party or a fun family dinner. This version uses homemade patties seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic for a deeper flavor, and includes a simple olive-and-pimento eyeball garnish. The recipe makes 4 monster burgers, each with two olive eyes, cheese teeth, and a gherkin tongue. Serve with your favorite fries or salad.
These spooky monster burgers are perfect for a Halloween party or a fun family dinner. This version uses homemade patties seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic for a deeper flavor, and includes a simple olive-and-pimento eyeball garnish. The recipe makes 4 monster burgers, each with two olive eyes, cheese teeth, and a gherkin tongue. Serve with your favorite fries or salad.
Ingredients
12 ingredients- Calories
- 550 kcal
- Fat
- 35g
- Carbs
- 30g
- Protein
- 30g
Whole recipe (4 servings): 2200 kcal
- 500 g ground beef (80/20)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 4 slices white cheddar cheese
- 8 pimento-stuffed green olives
- 4 small gherkins (cornichons)
- 4 lettuce leaves
- 4 tablespoons ketchup
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
Method
6 steps- In a bowl, mix ground beef, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until just combined. Shape into 4 equal patties, about 1 cm thick. Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.
- While patties chill, prepare the monster features: cut each cheddar slice into 4 thin triangles for teeth. Slice each gherkin in half lengthwise to create tongues. Pat the olives dry and set aside for eyes.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through (internal temperature 71°C/160°F). During the last minute, place a few cheese triangles on each patty to melt slightly.
- Toast the burger buns lightly, if desired. Spread 1 tablespoon ketchup and 1 tablespoon mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun.
- Place a lettuce leaf on each bottom bun, then add the cooked patty with melted cheese. Arrange the remaining cheese triangles along the front edge of the patty to look like teeth. Tuck a gherkin half into the front for a tongue, and press two olives into the top of the patty for eyes.
- Close the burgers with the top buns and serve immediately. Bite carefully—these monsters might bite back!
Recipe notes
Helpful tips
- For extra spooky eyes, use olives with pimentos or add a tiny dot of ketchup in the center of each olive.
- If you don't have smoked paprika, regular paprika works, but smoked adds a nice depth.
- Serve with sweet potato fries or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Grill or skillet
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Food thermometer (optional)
Storage
Assemble just before serving. Cooked patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before assembling.
Additional tips
- Ensure ground beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 71°C (160°F) for safety. Use a food thermometer to check doneness.
Recipe inspiration
Inspired by Tatiana’s Food Lab
Estimated nutrition
Per serving: 550 calories
Fat: 35 g · Carbs: 30 g · Protein: 30 g
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