There’s something magical about Halloween dinners that are both festive and comforting. These Spooky Jack-O’-Lantern Stuffed Peppers bring all the cozy vibes of a family meal while adding a playful twist that kids and adults will love. With hearty beef and rice tucked inside bell peppers carved into little Jack-O’-Lanterns, this dish is wholesome, flavorful, and so much fun to serve.
It’s easy enough for a weeknight, but festive enough to make Halloween night dinner feel extra special.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dinner | 20 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings | ~350 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 large orange bell peppers
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup cooked white rice (or brown rice for extra fiber)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prep the Peppers – Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Use a small paring knife to carve Jack-O’-Lantern faces into the front of each pepper.
- Cook the Filling – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Brown the Meat – Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
- Add the Rice & Tomatoes – Stir in diced tomatoes and cooked rice. Let the mixture simmer for 3–5 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
- Stuff the Peppers – Spoon the beef and rice mixture evenly into each pepper. Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake – Place peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5–10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve & Enjoy – Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm for a cozy, spooky dinner.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- If your peppers don’t stand upright, trim a thin slice from the bottom to help balance them.
- Make ahead: prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance, then stuff and bake when ready.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swap – Use ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a meatless option.
- Cheese Choices – Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Spice It Up – Add a pinch of chili flakes or a diced jalapeño for extra heat.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these festive stuffed peppers with:
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Roasted sweet potato fries for a seasonal side.
- Warm dinner rolls to soak up extra filling juices.
Conclusion
These Spooky Jack-O’-Lantern Stuffed Peppers are the perfect balance of cozy and fun, making them a great choice for Halloween dinner with family or friends. Serve them hot out of the oven, gather around the table, and enjoy the playful spirit of the season.