Why You’ll Love Jack-O’-Lantern Stuffed Peppers:
- Festive Fun: These stuffed peppers are perfect for Halloween parties, adding a cheerful touch to your table.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with nutritious ingredients, they make a wholesome meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Customizable: Feel free to get creative with your fillings, making it easy to accommodate various dietary preferences.
Ingredients:
- 4 orange bell peppers (for the jack-o’-lantern effect)
- 1 pound ground beef, turkey, or plant-based meat
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peppers:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully cut the tops off the orange bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Using a sharp knife, carve out jack-o’-lantern faces on the front of each pepper, making sure not to cut all the way through. Set aside.
2. Cook the Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the cooked rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and heated through. Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese.
3. Stuff the Peppers:
- Place the carved peppers upright in a baking dish. Generously fill each pepper with the meat and rice mixture, packing it down slightly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top of the stuffed peppers.
4. Bake:
- Pour a small amount of water into the bottom of the baking dish to help steam the peppers while baking. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Serve:
- Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Tips for Perfect Jack-O’-Lantern Stuffed Peppers:
- Choose the Right Peppers: Look for bell peppers that are firm and have a vibrant color for the best results.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the peppers just before baking for a quicker meal.
- Customize Fillings: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables, grains, or proteins to make the dish your own. Quinoa, lentils, or different types of cheese are great options!
Conclusion:
Jack-O’-Lantern Stuffed Peppers are the perfect Halloween dish that combines fun, flavor, and nutrition. With their playful design and savory filling, they’ll be a hit with both kids and adults alike.