If you’re looking for a fun, festive, and downright delicious recipe to celebrate the spooky season, you’ve got to try this Jack-o-lantern Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe. I absolutely love how these vibrant orange peppers come to life with their carved faces and hearty, cheesy filling. Whether you’re cooking with kids or just want a creative twist on stuffed peppers, this recipe is a fan-freaking-tastic way to bring a smile to your table this fall!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive Fun: Carving the bell peppers into jack-o-lantern faces is as fun as eating them—and kids absolutely love helping out.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of seasoned meat, beans, corn, salsa, and cheese makes each bite bursting with comforting fall flavors.
Easy Prep: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute Halloween parties.
Customizable: You can swap out ingredients to fit dietary needs or personal tastes without losing the festive vibe.

A woman's hand with dark blue nail polish is holding a bright orange bell pepper that has a carved Jack-o'-lantern face. The pepper is filled with a mixture of cooked ground meat, corn, and shredded cheese. Around it, four more orange bell peppers are filled with the same meat and cheese mix, two with pepper tops on and two without. All the peppers sit on a round wooden board placed on a white marbled surface. The colors are vibrant with the orange peppers, yellow corn, and white-yellow cheese visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Jack-o-lantern Stuffed Bell Peppers, Halloween stuffed peppers, festive fall dinner ideas, spooky stuffed peppers, easy Halloween party recipes

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Jack-o-lantern Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe come together in a way that’s hearty but still feels fresh and festive. When shopping, look for bell peppers that stand up well on their own with nice, even bottoms—that makes carving and baking much easier!

Flat lay of vibrant orange bell peppers with shiny, smooth skins and firm, hollowed interiors, mounds of fresh, bright yellow corn kernels, glossy black beans with a deep, rich color, raw ground turkey with a pale pink, slightly crumbly texture, sprigs of fresh green cilantro leaves scattered delicately, wedges of creamy white and orange cheddar and pepper jack cheese showing marbled patterns, small piles of warm reddish-brown taco seasoning powder, and a bowl of chunky red salsa with visible tomato, onion, and pepper bits, all beautifully arranged with natural spacing and slight overlap to create depth and interest, placed on white marbled surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Jack-o-lantern Stuffed Bell Peppers, Halloween stuffed peppers, festive fall dinner ideas, spooky stuffed peppers, easy Halloween party recipes

Orange bell peppers: These take center stage, and their bright color mimics real pumpkins perfectly.
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO): Adds richness and helps brown the meat beautifully without sticking.
Ground turkey or ground beef: Depending on your family’s preference, both work great but turkey keeps it a bit lighter.
Taco seasoning: Boosts flavor with a mix of spices—trust me, it ties everything together.
Black beans: Rinsed and drained to keep the filling fresh and add some protein and fiber.
Corn (canned or frozen): Adds a subtle sweetness and great texture contrast.
Salsa: My favorite is a medium-spiced, chunky salsa that keeps the mix juicy and flavorful.
Cheese: Using a mix of cheddar and pepper jack gives a balance of sharpness and just a little kick.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love making this Jack-o-lantern Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe my own by switching up the protein or veggies depending on what’s in season or what my family is craving. Feel free to get creative—it’s a recipe that welcomes personalization!

Meat-free version: Swap the ground meat for extra black beans, lentils, or even a meat substitute to keep it plant-based—I tried it once and my meat-loving friends couldn’t even tell!
Spice it up: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne if you want your jack-o-lanterns to have a little bite.
Cheese alternatives: Use mozzarella for a milder melt or pepper jack only for a spicier twist.
Different fillings: Try adding cooked quinoa or rice to bulk up the stuffing or mix in chopped mushrooms for an earthier bite.

How to Make Jack-o-lantern Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Bell Peppers and Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While that’s warming up, wash your bell peppers and carefully hollow them out by removing the seeds and membranes. I find that using a small paring knife and a spoon works best for this. If your kids are old enough and eager to help, carving the goofy or spooky faces on each pepper is a total blast and makes this recipe extra memorable. Just keep the cuts clean and not too close to the edges to avoid tearing later.

Step 2: Brown the Meat and Build the Filling

Heat a teaspoon of EVOO in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add your ground turkey or beef. As it browns, sprinkle in the taco seasoning—this is my little secret for maximum flavor without extra fuss. Once the meat is crumbly and cooked through, stir in the rinsed black beans, corn, your favorite salsa, and 1 cup of cheese. Let everything mingle together for 2-3 minutes on low heat so the flavors combine nicely.

Step 3: Stuff, Bake, and Cheese It Up

Now comes the fun part—stuffing those adorable jack-o-lantern peppers! Spoon the filling carefully into each pepper, filling them to the top but not overflowing. I like to line my baking sheet with foil or wax paper before plopping the peppers on; it makes cleanup a dream. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, then pull them out, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted.

Step 4: Cool and Serve Your Festive Creation

Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes—this helps the filling set a bit so it’s easier to eat. Then invite your little ghosts, goblins, or hungry friends to dig in. You’ll find these as adorable as they are tasty, and trust me, they’re a total conversation starter!

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Pro Tips for Making Jack-o-lantern Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Choose Peppers with Flat Bottoms: This ensures they stand upright while baking without tipping over—makes for a neater presentation!
Don’t Overstuff: Leave a little room at the top so the cheese can melt beautifully without spilling over and burning on the pan.
Let Them Rest: A short cooling period after baking lets the filling set, so you don’t burn your tongue and the peppers hold their shape better.
Cleaning Up is Easier: Line your baking sheet with foil or parchment paper before baking for quick and painless cleanup.

How to Serve Jack-o-lantern Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

The image shows three orange bell peppers carved to look like jack-o'-lanterns, each filled with a dark brown mixture topped with shredded white and yellow cheese. The peppers have triangular eyes and a mouth with two teeth carved on the front. One pepper is in the front with its lid removed and placed leaning on the side, showing the hollow inside. All three peppers sit on a white plate, which is placed on a round wooden slab with bark around the edge, and the background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Jack-o-lantern Stuffed Bell Peppers, Halloween stuffed peppers, festive fall dinner ideas, spooky stuffed peppers, easy Halloween party recipes

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a little extra chopped cilantro or green onions on top before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the rich, cheesy filling. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice on the side amps up the flavor even more—plus, it looks so festive!

Side Dishes

For sides, my family loves pairing these stuffed peppers with a crisp green salad or some Mexican rice. Roasted sweet potatoes or a light corn and tomato salad also complement the spicy-savory filling perfectly, balancing out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow your Halloween guests? Try placing each stuffed jack-o-lantern pepper on a mini plate surrounded by edible “spooky” garnishes like olive “spiders,” or shredded lettuce “grass.” Setting them on colorful fall-themed platters or serving boards with tiny Halloween props makes your spread seriously Instagram-worthy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover stuffed peppers in airtight containers in the fridge, and they usually last well for 3-4 days. When reheating, I gently warm them in the oven or microwave until just heated through—you want to keep that melty cheese texture without drying them out.

Freezing

Freezing stuffed bell peppers is totally doable! I’ve frozen mine unbaked to maintain freshness and then baked them straight from frozen with a little extra cooking time. If you want, you can also freeze after baking—just be sure to cool completely, wrap well, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, I like popping the peppers in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, covered loosely with foil to keep moisture in. This warms the filling evenly and keeps the pepper tender without becoming mushy. A quick microwave reheat also works if you’re in a hurry, but the oven definitely tastes better.

FAQs

Can I use bell peppers of other colors for this recipe?

Absolutely! While orange bell peppers give the perfect pumpkin look, you can use yellow or red peppers if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind the visual impact is different, but the flavor and fun stuffing remain fantastic.
What if I want to make this recipe vegan?

You can skip the meat and cheese, substituting with plant-based crumbles and vegan cheese options. Also, consider adding finely chopped mushrooms or cooked lentils to boost texture and flavor. The key is to season well to keep it tasty.
How do I prevent the peppers from getting too soft after baking?

Choose peppers with firm walls and a sturdy shape. Don’t overbake—stick to about 25 minutes total as directed. Allow cooling time after baking too, which helps maintain their structure rather than turning them mushy.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the beef or turkey mixture up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When ready, stuff your carved peppers and bake as usual. This saves time on busy days and lets flavors meld even more.

Final Thoughts

This Jack-o-lantern Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe brings together the perfect blend of festive spirit, fun cooking time, and satisfyingly delicious flavors. It’s a recipe I reach for every October because it delights my whole family and adds a playful touch to dinner that’s hard to beat. Go ahead, grab some bell peppers, carve those jack-o-lantern faces, and create a memorable meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. You’ll thank me later!

Jack-o-lantern Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 112 reviews

Author: Bertha
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4-5 stuffed bell peppers (serves 4-5)
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

Jack-o-lantern Stuffed Bell Peppers are a fun and festive Halloween recipe featuring orange bell peppers carved with spooky faces and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, beans, corn, salsa, and cheese. Baked to perfection, these colorful peppers make a kid-friendly and delicious meal perfect for fall celebrations.

Ingredients

Bell Peppers

4-5 large orange bell peppers, with level bottoms for standing

Meat and Seasoning

1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
1 lb ground turkey or ground beef
1 teaspoon taco seasoning

Fillings

1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can corn, rinsed and drained or 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
1 cup salsa, any favorite variety

Cheese

2 cups cheese, divided (cheddar and pepper jack recommended)

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Instructions

Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wash the bell peppers and carefully hollow them out by removing all seeds and membranes. Ensure they can stand upright on a lined baking sheet.
Cook the Meat Mixture: Heat 1 teaspoon of EVOO in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ground turkey or beef, breaking it up until it becomes crumbly. Add 1 teaspoon taco seasoning while the meat cooks for flavor.
Add Fillings: Reduce heat to medium and stir in rinsed black beans, corn, salsa, and 1 cup of cheese. Combine everything thoroughly and keep warm on low heat.
Carve the Jack-o-lantern Faces: Using a small knife, cut fun and spooky faces into the hollowed orange bell peppers. This can be a great activity for kids who are old enough to use knives safely.
Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the meat and bean mixture into each carved bell pepper, filling them evenly. Place the stuffed peppers upright on a baking sheet lined with foil or wax paper for easy cleanup.
Bake: Bake the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven uncovered for 20 minutes, allowing the filling to heat through and meld flavors.
Add Extra Cheese: Remove the peppers from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top of each pepper. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
Cool and Serve: Let the jack-o-lantern stuffed peppers cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this festive, fun, and flavorful dish perfect for Halloween celebrations.

Notes

You can use ground turkey or ground beef based on your preference or dietary needs.
Adjust the taco seasoning amount to your desired spice level.
For a vegetarian option, substitute ground meat with a plant-based crumble or extra beans.
Make sure bell peppers have flat bottoms so they stand upright without tipping over during baking.
Use a mix of cheddar and pepper jack cheese for a nice balance of sharp and spicy flavors.
If kids participate in carving, supervise closely for safety.
Leftover filling can be used as a taco filling or in burritos for another meal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 stuffed bell pepper
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 550 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 6 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 60 mg