Spooky Good: Halloween Jack-o’-Lantern Stuffed Peppers with a Twist

Halloween is the perfect time for baking and decorating, but what about adding a playful twist to your dinner? These Jack-o’-Lantern Stuffed Peppers bring a fun, spooky element to the table, like edible pumpkins with a surprise inside. They’re not just aesthetically delightful but also packed with flavors that make the holiday meals memorable.

Imagine carving mini Jack-o’-Lantern faces out of bright orange peppers, then stuffing them with a savory mixture of rice, cheese, and herbs. As they bake, the peppers soften and the cheese melts into gooey, flavorful pools, resembling a glowing pumpkin patch. It’s a dish that tickles both the eye and the palate, perfect for a family gathering or a festive party.

Crafting these peppers turns dinner into a playful activity. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the process of creating their own mini pumpkins and watching them bake to perfection. Plus, the aroma of roasted peppers sweetened with spices fills the air, making everyone eager to dig in.

Jack-o’-Lantern Stuffed Peppers

Bright orange bell peppers are carved with mini Jack-o’-Lantern faces, then stuffed with a seasoned mixture of cooked rice, cheese, and herbs. As they bake, the peppers soften and the cheese melts into gooey pools, creating a festive and savory presentation that resembles glowing pumpkins.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pcs bell peppers preferably orange for a pumpkin effect
  • 1 cup cooked rice preferably cooled
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella works well
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs parsley, thyme, or basil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Equipment

  • Sharp Knife
  • Baking Dish
  • Spoon
  • Small Carving Tool or Paring Knife
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Slice the tops off each bell pepper and set aside. Use a small carving tool or paring knife to carefully cut out friendly Jack-o’-Lantern faces on the front of each pepper. Set the carved peppers aside.
  2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the outside of each carved pepper with a little olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded cheese, chopped herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well blended and the cheese begins to melt slightly.
  4. Stuff each carved pepper generously with the rice mixture, pressing gently to fill all the nooks and crannies.
  5. Place the top of each pepper back on and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden around the edges.
  6. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then serve these playful, cheesy pumpkins while still warm and gooey inside.
These Jack-o’-Lantern Stuffed Peppers are a delightful way to celebrate Halloween without resorting to candies alone. They combine creativity with comfort, offering a satisfying meal that’s as charming as it is tasty. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to prepare, making them a great option for last-minute spooky feasts.

As the peppers come out of the oven, the rich smell of roasted vegetables mingles with a hint of garlic and melted cheese. Servings can be made both spooky and festive with a little garnish—fresh herbs or a drizzle of sour cream. They’re a playful addition to any fall gathering that will leave a memorable impression.

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