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Halloween Stuffed Bell Pepper Jack-o'-Lanterns

These stuffed bell peppers are carved to resemble small jack-o'-lanterns, with roasted peppers filled with a savory mixture of vegetables, cheese, and herbs. The peppers are baked until tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly, resulting in a festive and colorful presentation perfect for Halloween.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium bell peppers preferably red, yellow, or orange for vibrant color
  • 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa works as a stuffing base
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend
  • 1 cup chopped vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or corn
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for roasting peppers and sautéing
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian herbs optional, for flavor
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Paring knife
  • Spoon
  • Mixing bowl
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the tops off each bell pepper and carefully remove the seeds and membranes, ensuring the peppers are clean inside. Set aside.
  2. Use a paring knife to carve small faces into each pepper, creating eyes, a nose, and a mouth to resemble tiny jack-o'-lanterns. Be gentle to avoid cracking the peppers.
  3. Place the peppers on a baking sheet and brush the outside with a little olive oil. Roast in the oven for about 15 minutes until they start to soften and develop a slight char around the edges.
  4. While the peppers roast, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  5. Add the chopped vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with herbs, salt, and pepper to taste.
  6. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice or quinoa, sautéed vegetables, shredded cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well for a flavorful stuffing.
  7. Once the peppers are softened and slightly cooled, spoon the filling into each carved pepper cavity, packing it gently to fill fully.
  8. Top each stuffed pepper with an extra bit of cheese if desired, then place them back on the baking sheet. Broil for 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. The peppers will be tender with crispy edges, and the cheese will be golden and gooey, making them visually fun and delicious.
  10. Arrange the jack-o'-lantern peppers on a serving platter, and enjoy their colorful, festive appearance and savory flavors.

Notes

Feel free to customize the stuffing with your favorite vegetables or add a splash of hot sauce for extra flavor. Watch the peppers carefully while broiling to prevent burning the cheese.