Halloween Stuffed Peppers (Jack-O-Lanterns) Recipe

Posted on October 21, 2024

These Halloween Stuffed Peppers are a fun and festive twist on a classic comfort food! Shaped like mini Jack-O-Lanterns, these bell peppers are stuffed with a savory filling of rice, veggies, and ground meat, making them a hearty and delicious dish perfect for Halloween dinners or gatherings. The carved faces bring a playful, spooky touch to the table!

Why You’ll Love These Halloween Stuffed Peppers

Festive Fun: Perfect for Halloween parties or a themed family dinner.
Healthy & Hearty: Packed with protein, grains, and veggies for a balanced meal.
Customizable: Easy to adapt the filling to your preferences with various meats, veggies, or grains.

Ingredients for Halloween Stuffed Peppers (Jack-O-Lanterns)

6 orange bell peppers (the perfect “pumpkin” look)
1 lb ground beef, turkey, or chicken
1 cup cooked rice (or quinoa)
1 small onion, diced
1 garlic clove, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Halloween Stuffed Peppers (Jack-O-Lanterns)

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
Using a small paring knife, carefully carve Jack-O-Lantern faces into the front of each pepper.
Lightly brush the peppers (and their tops) with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3 minutes.
Add the ground meat to the skillet, cooking until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the filling into each carved bell pepper, packing it in firmly.
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of each stuffed pepper.
Place the tops back on the peppers as “lids.”

Step 4: Bake the Peppers

Transfer the stuffed peppers to the preheated oven.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let the peppers cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Halloween Stuffed Peppers with a simple side salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
They’re also great paired with some crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious juices from the filling.

Tips for the Best Halloween Stuffed Peppers

Choose the Right Peppers: Look for large, sturdy orange bell peppers that stand up well and have enough space for stuffing.
Carve Carefully: Use a sharp paring knife to carve the faces, and keep the designs simple for best results.
Customize the Filling: Feel free to swap in your favorite ingredients—try using quinoa instead of rice, or add black beans, corn, or even mushrooms for extra flavor.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, simply bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make these peppers vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Just omit the meat and replace it with more veggies, beans, or a meat alternative like tofu or lentils.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prep the peppers and filling ahead of time, stuff them, and refrigerate. Just bake when ready to serve.

Q3: Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?
A: Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. If freezing before, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual. If freezing after baking, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Conclusion: A Spooky and Satisfying Meal! These Halloween Stuffed Peppers are as delicious as they are fun! With their Jack-O-Lantern faces and savory filling, they’re sure to be a hit at any Halloween gathering or family dinner. Give them a try, and add a little spooky fun to your next meal!

Nutritional Information (per pepper)