Spooky Stuffed Bell Pepper Jack-O’-Lanterns

 

These orange bell peppers are carved like mini pumpkins and filled with a delicious rice and veggie mixture—perfect for Halloween parties or dinner with a twist!

🧄 Ingredients:

For the Bell Peppers:

  • 4 large orange bell peppers

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1/2 cup chopped onion

  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)

  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

  • 1/2 cup black beans (cooked and drained)

  • 1/2 cup corn (cooked)

  • 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)

  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional)

🎃 Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Carve the bell peppers:

    • Slice off the tops and remove seeds.

    • Use a small sharp knife to carve jack-o’-lantern faces on one side of each pepper.

  3. Prepare the filling:

    • Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté onions and garlic for 2–3 minutes.

    • Add tomatoes, corn, black beans, cooked rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

    • Cook for 5 minutes until well combined.

  4. Stuff the peppers:

    • Fill each carved pepper with the rice mixture.

    • Top with shredded cheese if desired.

  5. Bake:

    • Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.

    • Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes until peppers are tender.

  6. Serve hot:

    • Remove foil, let cool slightly, and serve!

👻 Why It’s Great for Halloween:

  • Fun jack-o’-lantern look

  • Vegetarian and family-friendly

  • Can be made spicy or cheesy depending on preference