Halloween food doesn’t always have to be heavy or meat-based—it can be both wholesome and fun. Enter the Black Bean Burger with Cheese Ghosts, a spooky twist on the classic veggie burger. Made with hearty black beans, breadcrumbs, and bold spices, these patties are packed with flavor, protein, and fiber.

Topped with melted “ghost-shaped” slices of cheese, these burgers are not only delicious but also bring a playful Halloween vibe to your table. Perfect for kids, vegetarians, or anyone who loves a good burger with a festive touch, this recipe proves that Halloween treats can be both healthy and exciting.

Why We Love This Recipe

We love this recipe because it’s comfort food with a spooky personality. The black bean patties are savory, smoky, and perfectly textured, while the gooey melted cheese cut into ghost shapes turns a simple burger into a Halloween centerpiece. It’s family-friendly, healthier than beef burgers, and a fantastic way to add some plant-based goodness to your holiday menu. Plus, it’s so much fun shaping the cheese into little ghosts—you’ll find yourself smiling before even taking a bite.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it’s inclusive and versatile. While meatloaf mummies and beef stews dominate the Halloween table, this vegetarian-friendly dish ensures everyone can enjoy the spooky fun. The black bean base is nutrient-rich and satisfying, while the ghost cheese topping adds a playful theme without extra fuss. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween dinner, throwing a costume party, or just want a festive family meal, these burgers are quick, budget-friendly, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Recipe Details:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4 burgers
• Calories: ~310 per serving (without buns and toppings)
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American / Vegetarian

Ingredients

For the Black Bean Patties:

• 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (or oats for gluten-free option)
• 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian option)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Cheese Ghosts & Assembly:

• 4 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese
• 4 burger buns (toasted)
• Lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, onions (optional toppings)
• Ketchup, mustard, or spooky sauces for garnish

Quick Directions

1. Mash beans, mix with seasonings and breadcrumbs to form patties.
2. Cook patties in a skillet until golden.
3. Cut cheese slices into ghost shapes and melt over patties.
4. Assemble burgers with buns and toppings.
5. Serve hot and spooky!

Step-by-Step Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Black Bean Mixture

1. In a large bowl, mash black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but slightly chunky.
2. Stir in onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
3. Mix until combined and able to hold shape. If mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

1. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions.
2. Form each portion into a round patty, about ½–¾ inch thick.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

1. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat with a little oil.
2. Cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side until crispy on the outside and heated through.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Ghosts

1. Use a small knife or ghost-shaped cookie cutter to carve “ghosts” from cheese slices.
2. Cut out two little “eyes” and a “mouth” to complete the spooky look.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

1. Place each patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun.
2. Add the ghost-shaped cheese on top while the patty is still hot so it melts slightly.
3. Add lettuce, tomato, or any toppings of choice.
4. Finish with the top bun and serve!

How to Serve

Serve these burgers warm on a platter, decorated with Halloween props for extra effect. Pair with sweet potato fries, roasted “pumpkin” carrots, or a side of spooky deviled eggs for a complete festive meal.

Tips for the Recipe:

• Chill the patties for 15 minutes before cooking to help them hold shape.
• Use parchment paper when shaping patties to avoid sticking.
• For extra smoky flavor, grill the patties instead of pan-frying.
• Add a little hot sauce to the mixture if you want extra kick.

Variations:

• Vegan Version: Use flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) and vegan cheese.
• Spicy Ghost Burgers: Add jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the patty mix.
• Cheesy-Stuffed Patties: Mix shredded cheese into the black bean mixture for gooey centers.
• Mini Ghost Sliders: Make smaller patties and use slider buns for a Halloween party platter.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Keep cooked patties in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing (Uncooked Patties): Freeze raw patties between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to cooking time.
• Freezing (Cooked Patties): Freeze cooled patties for up to 1 month. Reheat in oven or skillet.

Special Equipment Needed

• Skillet or grill pan
• Potato masher or fork
• Ghost-shaped cookie cutter (optional but fun)
• Parchment paper

FAQ:

Q1: Can I bake the patties instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q2: How do I keep my black bean patties from falling apart?
Make sure the beans are well-drained and use enough breadcrumbs as binder. Chilling the patties before cooking also helps.

Q3: Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute gluten-free oats or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Q4: What other cheeses can I use for the ghosts?
Provolone, Havarti, or Monterey Jack all work well since they melt smoothly.

Conclusion

The Black Bean Burger with Cheese Ghosts is a playful yet satisfying way to celebrate Halloween. Packed with bold flavors, high in protein and fiber, and topped with adorable ghost-shaped cheese, it’s a dish that blends comfort, nutrition, and festive fun. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to surprise your family with a spooky dinner, these burgers are guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face—and maybe a little scare too!