There’s something magical about fall evenings—when the air is crisp, pumpkins glow on porches, and the kitchen feels extra cozy. If you’re looking for a festive dinner that’s equal parts fun and comforting, these Jack O’ Lantern Stuffed Peppers are the perfect pick.
They’re playful enough to make kids giggle, hearty enough to satisfy adults, and simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Imagine savory seasoned filling tucked inside sweet bell peppers, carved like mini pumpkins glowing with deliciousness. It’s Halloween dinner with a touch of cozy comfort food—no tricks, just tasty treats!
Recipe Info
| Category | Dinner / Holiday Recipe |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Calories | ~350 calories per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 large orange bell peppers
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or oregano + basil)
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for warmth)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prep the Peppers
- Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
- Using a small paring knife, carefully carve little Jack O’ Lantern faces into each pepper. (Think triangle eyes and a jagged smile!)
- Cook the Filling
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
- Stir in ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
- Season & Simmer
- Add tomato paste, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the cooked rice and half of the shredded cheese. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Stuff the Peppers
- Spoon the filling evenly into each carved pepper.
- Place peppers upright in a baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Bake & Serve
- Cover loosely with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes.
- Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to melt and slightly brown the cheese.
- Serve warm and enjoy your glowing, cheesy “Jack O’ Lanterns!”
Helpful Notes & Tips
- If your peppers don’t stand up straight, slice a tiny bit off the bottom (careful not to cut through).
- To make ahead: prepare filling the day before and store in the fridge. Just carve, stuff, and bake when ready.
- Want it saucier? Add a splash of marinara or extra diced tomatoes.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swap → Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat crumbles.
- Low-Carb Option → Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter version.
- Cheesy Twist → Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack (for spice), or a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these fun peppers with:
- A crisp green salad with balsamic dressing
- Garlic bread or crusty rolls
- Roasted sweet potato wedges for extra fall vibes
Conclusion
These Jack O’ Lantern Stuffed Peppers bring the cozy spirit of Halloween right to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for kids, friends, or just want a festive night in, they’re guaranteed to make mealtime a little more magical. So light a candle, serve them warm, and enjoy every flavorful bite.