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Jack-o'-Lantern Stuffed Peppers

This dish features bell peppers carved with spooky faces, baked until tender, and filled with a cheesy seasoned rice mixture. The carved peppers are visually playful with melted cheese oozing out, creating an appealing Halloween presentation with a comforting, hearty texture.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large bell peppers preferably orange or yellow for a spooky look
  • 1 cup cooked rice preferably fluffy white rice
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese grated
  • 1/2 cup cooked chicken or turkey optional, chopped small
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Equipment

  • Chef's knife
  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon
  • Small Paring Knife
  • Aluminum Foil

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Carefully cut off the tops of each bell pepper with a sharp paring knife to create a lid, then scoop out the seeds and membranes. Set aside the tops for carving later.
  3. Use the paring knife to carve spooky face designs—triangular eyes, a jagged mouth—on the front of each pepper. Take your time to make the designs expressive and clear.
  4. Place the carved peppers on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, with their cut sides facing up.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, grated cheese, chopped chicken (if using), garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix until evenly combined and creamy.
  6. Spoon the filling into each carved pepper, pressing down gently so it fills all the carved faces and leaves a slight mound on top.
  7. Place the pepper tops back on each filled pepper to create lids, or set them aside for serving if desired.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbling and golden around the edges.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Carefully transfer to a plate, and if you wish, serve with the carved faces still visible for a spooky effect.
  10. Enjoy your playful and hearty Halloween dish that blends festive art with comforting flavor!

Notes

For easier carving, slightly pre-cook the peppers by steaming for 5 minutes before carving. You can also add a pinch of cayenne to the filling for a spicy kick. Use colorful peppers for a more vibrant Halloween display.