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Spooky Stuffed Peppers

These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, cheese, and smoky spices, then baked until tender and bubbling. The final dish features a crispy cheese topping and a colorful, playful presentation perfect for Halloween gatherings or festive dinners. The process involves stuffing the peppers and baking to achieve a cheesy, slightly crispy exterior with a flavorful, tender interior.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large bell peppers preferably colorful for visual flair
  • 1 whole onion chopped
  • 200 g ground meat beef, chicken, or plant-based
  • 1 cup cooked rice white, brown, or cauliflower rice for low carb
  • 0.5 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella, plus extra for topping
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika for smoky flavor
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp oil for sautéing

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Skillet
  • Knife
  • Spoon
  • Baking dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Slice the tops off each bell pepper and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes, creating a hollow cavity for the filling.
  2. Heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add the ground meat to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7 minutes.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Then, fold in the cooked rice and half of the shredded cheese, mixing well to combine.
  5. Use a spoon to generously stuff each hollowed-out pepper with the filling, pressing down slightly to pack it in.
  6. Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Cover the dish with foil to trap heat and moisture.
  7. Bake the peppers for 25 to 30 minutes until they are tender and the filling is bubbling and hot.
  8. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the tops of the peppers, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is golden and crispy.
  9. Take the peppers out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or jalapeños for extra flair and heat.

Notes

For an extra spooky touch, cut out small shapes like bats or ghosts from cheese and place them on top during the final baking step. Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients or spice levels.