Halloween themed stuffed peppers recipe for festive meals

Halloween Stuffed Peppers Recipe

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why make this recipe

Halloween is a time for fun, creativity, and tasty treats. These Halloween stuffed peppers are a great way to celebrate the season. They look like cheerful Jack-O’-Lanterns and are filled with a delicious mix of meat, rice, and cheese. Kids love to help carve the faces on the peppers, and it’s a wonderful way to include fresh veggies in your Halloween feast. Plus, they are easy to make and perfect for family dinners or Halloween parties.

how to make Halloween Stuffed Peppers

Ingredients:

The Peppers:

  • 6 medium-to-large orange or yellow bell peppers (Orange looks most like a pumpkin, but a mix of colors is also fun!)

The Protein:

  • 1.5 lbs lean ground turkey (93/7 is a great choice. Ground beef, chicken, or a plant-based crumble also work well.)

The Aromatic Base:

  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

The Filling Grains & Binders:

  • 1 cup cooked rice (brown, white, or wild rice all work perfectly)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten

The Sauce and Seasonings:

  • 1 (15-ounce) can of tomato sauce, divided
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

The Cheesy Topping:

  • 1.5 cups shredded cheese (A mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack is fantastic for flavor and meltiness.)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready when your peppers are stuffed.
  2. Wash and dry your bell peppers thoroughly.
  3. Carefully slice off the top of each bell pepper (about ½ inch from the stem) to create a “lid” for your Jack-O’-Lanterns. Set the lids aside for decoration.
  4. Remove the seeds and white membranes from inside the peppers. Use a spoon to scrape the inside walls clean, making a smooth hollow space.
  5. Use a small knife to carve Jack-O’-Lantern faces into one side of each pepper. Classic triangles for eyes and a zig-zag or spooky smile work best. Always cut away from your body, and have adults supervise this step.
  6. Place the carved peppers upright in a 9×13 inch baking dish. If they wobble, slice a tiny layer off the bottom to create a stable base. Pour about ½ cup of tomato sauce into the bottom of the dish around the peppers.
  7. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, add the diced onion, cooking for 4-5 minutes until soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  8. Add the ground turkey (or your protein of choice) to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks for 8-10 minutes or until fully cooked with no pink remaining. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  9. Lower the heat and add cooked rice, remaining tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined.
  10. In a mixing bowl, lightly beat the egg. Take a spoonful of the warm meat mixture and stir it into the egg to raise its temperature. Then stir this egg mixture back into the skillet.
  11. Spoon the warm filling into each hollowed-out pepper, packing it gently but firmly.
  12. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 35-45 minutes until the peppers are tender-crisp.
  13. Remove the foil and sprinkle cheese generously over each pepper. Return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  14. Let the peppers rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

how to serve Halloween Stuffed Peppers

Serve your Halloween stuffed peppers warm, right from the oven, for a spooky yet delicious treat. They can be a centerpiece on your Halloween table or a fun addition to a potluck. You can also serve them with extra tomato sauce on the side for dipping.

how to store Halloween Stuffed Peppers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave them for a quicker option.

tips to make Halloween Stuffed Peppers

  • Use a variety of pepper colors for a fun look.
  • Adjust seasoning and spice levels according to your taste.
  • Feel free to add veggies like corn or beans to the filling for extra nutrition.
  • Make a vegetarian version by using beans or lentils instead of meat.

variation

You can also experiment by adding different fillings. Try quinoa instead of rice, or add black beans for a more southwestern flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other kinds of meat?
Yes! Ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based meat crumbles work great in this recipe.

Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Absolutely! You can freeze stuffed peppers before baking them. Wrap them tightly and store them for up to 3 months. Just thaw and bake when you’re ready.

What can I serve with stuffed peppers?
Stuffed peppers pair well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables.

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