Spooky Delight: Halloween Stuffed Bell Pepper Jack-o’-Lanterns

Halloween is the perfect time to get a little creative in the kitchen, and these stuffed bell pepper Jack-o’-Lanterns do just that. They turn ordinary peppers into edible pumpkins with just a little carving and filling. The aroma of roasting peppers mingles with savory fillings, creating a festive atmosphere even before the first bite.

This recipe isn’t just fun—it’s a way to involve everyone in the kitchen chaos. Kids love helping carve, while the smell of melted cheese and spiced fillings evokes nostalgic autumn evenings. Plus, the vibrant orange of the peppers adds a splash of seasonal color to any table.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Jack-o’-Lanterns

These stuffed bell peppers are carved to resemble Jack-o’-Lanterns, with their tops cut out and the insides scooped to create a hollow cavity. Filled with savory mixture and topped with cheese, they are roasted until tender and golden, resulting in vibrant, festive, edible pumpkins with a crispy exterior and juicy filling.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• 4 large bell peppers preferably orange or bright color for pumpkin effect
• 1 cup cooked rice or cooked quinoa for variety
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tsp paprika optional, for flavor and color
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Baking sheet
• Spoon
• Mixing bowl

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the tops off each bell pepper and scoop out the seeds and membranes, creating a hollow cavity that resembles a pumpkin.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well so the flavors meld together.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the hollowed-out peppers and gently brush the insides to keep them moist during roasting. Spoon the filling into each pepper, pressing down lightly to pack it in firmly.
4. Place the filled peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they sit upright. Top each pepper with a small piece of the cut-off lid, like a pumpkin’s stem or top.
5. Bake the peppers in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, until they are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly, with some golden browning on top. The peppers’ skin should start to wrinkle slightly, indicating doneness.
6. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the filling to settle and makes handling easier.
7. Serve the stuffed Jack-o’-Lantern peppers hot, with your favorite sides. The vibrant orange color makes them a fun and festive addition to any Halloween table.

As the peppers come out of the oven, the crispy edges and bubbling cheese make your kitchen smell like a cozy fall festival. These Jack-o’-Lanterns are simple enough to prepare ahead, making them perfect for a spooky gathering or a quick Halloween dinner. A little creativity turns ordinary ingredients into a memorable holiday centerpiece.

Enjoy these fun, savory pumpkins with friends or family, and watch them light up the table with smiles and awe. They’re a reminder that good food is all about a little chaos, a lot of flavor, and celebrating the season with joy. Happy Halloween cooking!