Description

These Monster Burgers are fun, creative, and perfect for a spooky-themed meal or a playful dinner. Featuring juicy beef or turkey patties topped with mozzarella ‘eyeballs,’ black olive ‘pupils,’ cheddar cheese ‘fangs,’ and classic burger fixings, these burgers are as visually striking as they are delicious. Easily customized and cooked using various methods, these burgers bring a playful twist to a classic favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Burger Patties

1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20) or turkey (for 4 patties)
Salt and pepper (or smoked hickory sea salt for extra flavor)

For the Toppings and Assembly

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

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Instructions

Prepare the Burger Patties: Form 4 patties from the ground beef or turkey, making them slightly larger than the buns. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper or smoked hickory sea salt for added flavor.
Cook the Patties (Skillet Method): Heat a drizzle of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Let them rest until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Alternative Cooking Methods: You can also grill the patties by preheating your grill to 400°F (204°C) and cooking for 5-6 minutes per side, or air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 6 minutes per side. Another option is smoking the patties until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, then resting them until it hits 165°F for best texture and flavor.
Create the ‘Eyeballs’: Stack halved black olives on top of the mini mozzarella balls using toothpicks to secure them. These will mimic creepy eyeballs for the burger tops.
Make Cheese ‘Fangs’: Cut cheddar cheese slices into triangular shapes to resemble fangs, then place them under the top bun to enhance the monster effect.
Assemble the Burgers: On the bottom half of each brioche bun, place a lettuce leaf, then add a cooked patty. Top the patty with a tomato slice and a pickle slice to resemble a tongue. Add the cheddar cheese fangs on top and finish by placing the bun with the mozzarella eyeballs on top.
Serve Immediately: Serve your monster burgers straight away with your choice of sides for a fun and delicious meal experience.

Notes

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
Using smoked hickory sea salt adds an extra smoky flavor without needing a smoker.
For food safety, always ensure the internal temperature of poultry patties reaches 165°F (74°C).
Customize your monster by adding other toppings like pickled jalapeños or crispy onions for extra texture.
To avoid soggy buns, toast them lightly before assembling.
Use fresh ingredients for the best taste and appearance.