These Jack-o’-Lantern Stuffed Peppers are spooky on the outside and delicious on the inside. Perfect for Halloween night or fall-themed dinners, they’re stuffed with a hearty mix of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce—then carved like mini pumpkins for a festive finish.
I made these last Halloween when I needed a dinner that was both fun for kids and satisfying for grown-ups. The carved faces made everyone smile, and the warm, savory filling brought them back for seconds. These are simple to prep, can be made ahead, and are endlessly customizable—swap in turkey or quinoa for a different twist!
All you need are large orange bell peppers and a little creativity. Cut the tops, carve simple jack-o’-lantern faces with a paring knife, and fill them with your favorite stuffing. After a quick bake in the oven, they’re ready to scare and satisfy.
They’re a fun way to bring Halloween spirit to the dinner table—and way better than ordering pizza (again).
Jack-o’-Lantern Stuffed Peppers – Spooky Fun & Super Savory
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off bell peppers and remove seeds.
- Use a small knife to carve jack-o’-lantern faces into each pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook beef until browned.
- Add onion and garlic; cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes.
- Spoon mixture into hollowed peppers. Top with cheese if using.
- Place peppers upright in a baking dish with ¼ inch water at the bottom.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30–35 minutes until peppers are tender.
- Uncover and bake 5 more minutes for melted cheese. Serve warm.