Description
Mini bell peppers carved into jack-o’-lanterns, stuffed with seasoned beef, rice, and cheese, then baked until tender. A festive and delicious Halloween dinner idea.
Ingredients
6 small bell peppers
1 pound ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooked rice (optional)
1 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
1 cup tomato sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Slice tops off peppers, remove seeds, and carve faces.
2. Cook onion and garlic in oil. Add ground beef, seasonings, tomato sauce, and rice. Simmer 5 minutes.
3. Fill peppers with mixture, top with cheese, and replace lids.
4. Place in baking dish with splash of water. Cover loosely with foil and bake 25–30 minutes.
5. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
Use small peppers for faster cooking and better presentation.
Add beans or corn for a Tex-Mex version.
Can be made vegetarian with lentils or quinoa. Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Keywords: stuffed peppers, jack-o’-lantern peppers, Halloween dinner ideas, festive stuffed peppers, spooky sliders