Halloween Burgers for Kids

1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
salt and pepper (optional)
6 slices cheese, cut into desired shapes
red or green bell peppers, cut into desired shapes
pitted olives, cut into desired shapes
6 lettuce leaves
6 hamburger buns, split

Lightly shape ground beef into six 1/2-inch thick patties. Do not overhandle. Choose a cooking method.

To broil; place patties on a rack in broiler pan so surface of meat is 3 inches to 4 inches from heat. Broil 10 minutes or until centers are no longer pink, turning once.

To panbroil: place patties in a preheated heavy skillet over medium to medium-low heat. Cook 7 to 8 minutes or until centers are no longer pink, turning once.

Season with salt and pepper, if desired, after turning. Top with cheese slices, bell peppers and olives to make faces the last few minutes of cooking. Serve burgers on lettuce-lined buns. Serves 6.
Copyright 1995, The Associated Press