Mini Stuffed Jack-o'-Lantern Peppers
Bright orange bell peppers are carved with simple faces and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, cheese, and aromatics. Baked until tender and bubbly, these peppers develop a slight caramelization on the edges, creating a playful and festive centerpiece with a deliciously gooey interior.
Equipment
- Sharp paring knife
- Small spoon or melon baller
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish or sheet
- Oven
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers preferably bright orange
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese mozzarella or mixed cheese blend
- 1/2 pound ground meat turkey, chicken, or beef
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley fresh if available
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika adds smoky flavor
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Use a sharp paring knife to cut off the tops of each bell pepper and carefully scoop out all the seeds and membranes with a small spoon or melon baller, leaving the walls intact and about half an inch thick.
- Carve simple faces onto each pepper using the paring knife—think triangle eyes and a jagged mouth—giving your mini pumpkins a playful look.
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika, stirring to combine.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in most of the shredded cheese, mixing until melted and creamy. Let the filling cool slightly for a minute.
- Use a spoon to stuff each carved pepper with the savory filling, pressing gently to pack it in and fill to the top.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright on the prepared baking sheet, and optionally put their tops back on like little lids.
- Bake the peppers in the oven for 25-30 minutes until they are tender, the edges are blistered, and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the peppers rest for 5 minutes to set. The cheese will firm up slightly, making them easier to handle and serve.
- Serve these festive stuffed Jack-o'-Lantern peppers warm, with cheese slightly crispy on the edges and a savory aroma filling the air.
Notes
Feel free to customize the fillings with your favorite herbs or add a sprinkle of Parmesan on top before baking for extra flavor.