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Stuffed Bell Pepper Jack-o’-Lanterns

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These Stuffed Bell Pepper Jack-o’-Lanterns are a festive twist on a classic comfort food. Sweet orange bell peppers are carved like mini pumpkins and filled with a savory, cheesy mixture of ground beef, rice, and herbs—perfect for a fun fall or Halloween dinner.

Ingredients

  • 4 orange bell peppers
  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut tops off bell peppers and remove seeds/membranes. Carve jack-o’-lantern faces if desired.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
  4. Add ground beef, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned.
  5. Stir in cooked rice and tomato sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  6. Fill peppers with beef mixture and top with shredded cheese.
  7. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and bake for 25–30 minutes. Uncover in the last 10 minutes to melt cheese.
  8. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Use red or yellow peppers if orange is unavailable.
  • Substitute ground meat with beans and veggies for a vegetarian version.
  • Make ahead and refrigerate unbaked stuffed peppers up to 1 day in advance.
  • Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
  • Freeze after baking for up to 2 months; reheat directly from frozen.

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