Spooktacularly Savory: Halloween Stuffed Bell Pepper Jack-o’-Lanterns

Turning ordinary bell peppers into festive Jack-o’-Lanterns adds a playful twist to Halloween dinner tables. The smell of roasting vegetables mingles with the tangy aroma of melted cheese, creating anticipation for both kids and adults. These peppers aren’t just adorable—they’re packed with flavorful fillings that surprise on the first bite.

What makes this recipe stand out is the creative chaos of carving and stuffing. It’s a chance to indulge your inner artist while whipping up something delicious. Plus, the vibrant colors and cheerful faces bring a pop of joy amid spooky decorations.

Stuffed Jack-o’-Lantern Bell Peppers

This dish features bell peppers carved into jack-o’-Lantern faces, which are then stuffed with a savory filling made of cooked grains, vegetables, and cheese. The peppers are roasted until tender and the filling is bubbling, resulting in a colorful and festive presentation with a tender texture and slightly crispy edges.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 290

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• 4 large bell peppers preferably orange, yellow, or red for festive look
• 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa cooled
• 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend
• 1 small zucchini finely diced
• 1 medium onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Baking sheet
• Spoon
• Mixing bowl
• Small paring knife

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a small paring knife, carefully carve faces with simple eyes, nose, and mouth shapes into each bell pepper, creating a cheerful jack-o’-Lantern appearance. Remove the tops and seeds, then set them aside for roasting or composting.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice or quinoa, shredded cheese, diced zucchini, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper, then stir until all ingredients are well mixed and slightly sticky.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the zucchini and cook for another 3-4 minutes until tender and slightly browned.
4. Stir the cooked vegetable mixture into the bowl with the rice and cheese, mixing everything thoroughly to create the filling. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Spoon the filling into each carved bell pepper, pressing gently to pack in the mixture. Fill them nearly to the top for a generous presentation.
6. Arrange the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the tops of the peppers back on if desired for a more traditional look.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbling around the edges. The carved faces will turn slightly roasted with caramelized spots.
8. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve hot. The vibrant peppers with melted cheese and playful faces make a fun and colorful meal.

This dish is perfect for an easy Halloween feast that combines whimsy with comfort. As the peppers crackle in the oven, families gather around, eager for a fun and flavorful meal. It’s a great way to make every bite memorable and distinctly holiday-specific.

When the last pepper has been gobbled up, the lingering scent of cheesy, roasted goodness will still float through the house. These Jack-o’-Lanterns aren’t just cute—they create new traditions and spark smiles for years to come.