Go Back

Halloween Stuffed Bell Pepper Jack-o'-Lanterns

These festive stuffed bell peppers are carved to resemble Jack-o'-Lanterns with playful faces, then filled with savory ingredients such as herbs, cheese, and a seasoned filling. The peppers are baked until tender and the tops are golden, resulting in a colorful, imaginative presentation with a savory, cheesy interior and slightly crispy edges.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Seasonal
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large bell peppers preferably orange for a true pumpkin look
  • 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa for mixed filling
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella works well
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or your choice of herbs
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Sharp knife
  • Baking sheet
  • Spoon
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Using a sharp knife, cut out small faces with eyes, nose, and mouth on each bell pepper, creating a pumpkin-like Jack-o'-Lantern appearance. Place the peppers on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes, until it begins to smell sweet and turns slightly golden.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The mixture will become fragrant.
  5. Mix in the cooked rice or quinoa, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything well and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through and combined.
  6. Scoop the filling into each carved pepper, pressing gently to pack the mixture inside and fill to the top. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the filling.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender, the faces are slightly charred, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-charring.
  8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. The peppers will look bright and festive with slightly crispy edges and cheesy smiles.

Notes

Feel free to customize the facial features or fillings—add olives for eyes or spicy sausage for a hearty twist. Ensuring the peppers are pre-baked slightly prevents sogginess and helps them hold their shape during carving.