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Cheesy Jack-o'-Lantern Stuffed Peppers

This dish features colorful bell peppers carved into Jack-o'-Lantern faces, which are then stuffed with a savory cheese and vegetable filling. The peppers are roasted until tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a playful and festive presentation with a warm, golden-brown finish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large bell peppers preferably orange or yellow for festive color
  • 1 cup cooked rice white or brown
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup cooked corn optional for sweetness and texture
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon
  • Baking sheet
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  2. Using a sharp knife and cutting board, carefully carve faces into each bell pepper to resemble Jack-o'-Lanterns, creating eyes, a nose, and a jagged mouth. Remove the tops and seeds from inside.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, shredded cheese, cooked corn (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well blended.
  6. Stuff each carved pepper with the cheese and rice mixture, pressing gently to fill to the top.
  7. Place the stuffed peppers on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. For added fun, you can use a sharp knife to add little details or expressions to the faces before serving.
  9. Serve hot, letting the cheesy filling ooze slightly as you cut into the festive Jack-o'-Lantern peppers. Enjoy the colorful, playful presentation and hearty flavors!

Notes

For extra stability, use a small knife to carve window-like features or add small cheese dots for eyes and mouth. These peppers make a fun centerpiece for Halloween dinners.