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Jack-o'-Lantern Stuffed Peppers

This dish features bell peppers carved with jack-o'-Lantern faces and filled with a cheesy, savory mixture. The peppers are baked until tender and slightly caramelized, with the cheese topping bubbling and golden brown, creating a festive and hearty presentation.
Print Recipe
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 large bell peppers preferably orange or yellow for classic jack-o'-Lantern look
  • 1 cup cooked rice can use white or brown rice
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend
  • ½ cup cooked ground meat optional, can substitute with beans or veggies
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil

Equipment

  • Sharp paring knife
  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spoon
  • Cooking spray or olive oil

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray or brush with olive oil.
  2. Carefully cut off the tops of each bell pepper and scoop out the seeds and membranes, creating a hollow cavity. Use a paring knife to carve spooky jack-o'-Lantern faces onto the peppers, making sure the cuts are shallow enough not to break through.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded cheese, cooked ground meat (or alternative), chopped onion, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
  4. Spoon the stuffing mixture into each hollowed and carved pepper, pressing gently to fill completely and even out the surface.
  5. Place the stuffed peppers on the prepared baking sheet, standing upright. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Optionally, add extra cheese on top and broil for 2-3 minutes for a golden finish.
  7. Serve the Jack-o'-Lantern stuffed peppers warm, showcasing their carved faces with melted cheese, ready to be enjoyed as a fun and hearty Halloween meal.

Notes

Use a small, sharp paring knife for detailed carving. Feel free to customize faces or add edible eye decorations for extra festivity.