Description
These Monster Burgers are a fun and delicious twist on classic burgers, perfect for Halloween or any playful meal. Made with juicy beef or turkey patties, topped with mozzarella and olive ‘eyes,’ cheddar ‘fangs,’ and fresh veggies all nestled in brioche buns, they’re sure to impress kids and adults alike. The recipe offers several cooking methods—skillet, grill, air fryer, or smoking—to suit your preference. Quick to prepare and assemble, these burgers are a crowd-pleaser with a spooky touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20) or turkey (for 4 patties)
- Salt and pepper (or smoked hickory sea salt for extra flavor)
Toppings and Garnishes
- 12 mini bocconcini mozzarella balls (or any small mozzarella ball)
- 6 medium black olives, halved
- 4 brioche burger buns
- 4 lettuce leaves
- 4 tomato slices
- 4 pickle slices (for the “tongue”)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese, cut into triangles (for the “fangs”)
- Toothpicks for securing the eyes
Instructions
- Prepare the Burger Patties: Form 4 patties from the ground beef or turkey, making each patty slightly larger than the brioche buns to accommodate shrinkage during cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper or smoked hickory sea salt for extra smoky flavor.
- Cook the Patties (Skillet Method): Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until nicely browned and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety. Remove from heat and rest briefly.
- Alternatively Grill the Patties: Preheat your grill to 400°F (204°C). Place the patties on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, flipping carefully. Once cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F, remove and rest before assembling.
- Alternatively Air Fry the Patties: Preheat an air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place patties in the basket and cook for 6 minutes per side. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F. Let the patties rest after cooking.
- Alternatively Smoke the Patties: Smoke the patties until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F, then let them rest off the heat to reach 165°F, ensuring tender and flavorful meat.
- Create the ‘Eyeballs’ Topping: Use toothpicks to stack the halved black olives on top of the mini mozzarella balls, securing the olives on top to mimic eyes. Set aside for decorating the burger tops.
- Prepare the ‘Fangs’: Cut the cheddar cheese slices into triangles to resemble fangs. These will be placed under the top bun to give your monsters a spooky smile.
- Assemble the Monster Burgers: On the bottom half of each brioche bun, place a lettuce leaf, then add a cooked burger patty, followed by a slice of tomato and a pickle slice to resemble the monster’s tongue. Layer the cheddar cheese triangles on top of the patty, then place the top bun adorned with the mozzarella and olive ‘eyeball’ on top. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Serve Immediately: Serve your monster burgers fresh with your favorite side dishes to enjoy the full effect of the spooky presentation and delicious flavors.
Notes
- Use ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio for juicy patties; turkey is a leaner alternative.
- Ensure patties reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- You can choose your preferred cooking method: skillet, grill, air fryer, or smoking.
- To make assembly easier, precut all toppings before cooking.
- Toothpicks help keep the decorative toppings secure but remove before eating if preferred.
- Customize your monster burger with additional toppings like onions, pickles, or sauces for extra flavor.
- Use freshly baked brioche buns for the best texture and flavor.
