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Jack-o'-Lantern Stuffed Bell Peppers

This dish features vibrant bell peppers carved into pumpkin shapes, hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and vegetables. After baking, the peppers have a tender texture with melted cheese on top, creating a festive and colorful presentation perfect for Halloween celebrations.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large bell peppers preferably orange or yellow for a festive look
  • 1/2 pound ground meat beef, turkey, or chicken
  • 1 cup cooked rice white or brown rice
  • 1/2 cup diced onion preferably yellow or white
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika optional, for color and flavor

Equipment

  • Chef's knife
  • Baking dish
  • Spoon
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by carefully carving pumpkin-like faces into each bell pepper using a sharp chef's knife, creating a fun and Halloween-ready appearance. Remove the seeds and inner membranes to create a hollow interior.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add ground meat to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika for flavor. Stir in cooked rice and mix until evenly combined.
  4. Use a spoon to fill each carved pepper with the meat and rice mixture, pressing gently to pack the filling in tightly and leave a little space at the top for cheese.
  5. Place the filled peppers into a baking dish standing upright. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of each stuffed pepper evenly.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly with some golden edges.
  7. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve these festive jack-o'-lantern peppers hot, with their cheerful expressions and gooey cheese inside.

Notes

For extra spookiness, add small cheese slices or olives for eyes and a nose before baking.