There’s something magical about Halloween. The air is crisp, the leaves are turning, and our kitchens fill with cozy, colorful dishes. One of my favorite treats to whip up during this spooky season is Halloween stuffed peppers. These vibrant orange bell peppers not only look festive with their fun jack-o-lantern designs, but they are also stuffed with a hearty and wholesome filling that makes an exciting dinner for families and friends alike.
What makes these stuffed peppers so special is how they strike a balance between being fun and nutritious. Filled with seasoned ground turkey, rice, and beans, they offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures that’s sure to please everyone at the table—adults and kids alike.
Why you’ll love Halloween stuffed peppers
- They’re visually appealing and festive for Halloween.
- Packed with healthy ingredients and protein.
- Easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners.
- Make great leftovers and are freezer-friendly.
- Fun to carve and decorate for the Halloween spirit.
What ingredients do I need for Halloween stuffed peppers?
- 8 orange bell peppers, whole.
- 2 cups cooked white basmati rice.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 2 1/4 cups).
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking.
- 3 minced garlic cloves (equal to 1 tablespoon).
- 16 ounces (1 pound) of ground turkey or your choice of ground chicken.
- 15 ounces of tomato sauce (1 can).
- Rinsed and drained black beans, 15.5 ounces.
- 1 teaspoon each of dried basil leaves and oregano.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt to taste.
- 3/4 cup of shredded colby jack or cheddar cheese.
Ingredient notes & swaps:
- You can swap turkey for ground chicken or beans for lentils if desired.
- Any variety of bell peppers works, but orange is best for Halloween.
- Substitute brown rice for basmati for added fiber.
How do I make Halloween stuffed peppers step-by-step?
Making these stuffed peppers is a straightforward process that delivers big on flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Set your oven to 400°F and let it heat up.
- Slice off the tops of the peppers carefully, then remove seeds and white parts from the inside. Carve fun jack-o-lantern faces on one side and arrange the peppers upright in a baking pan (9×13 works great).
- In a large pan, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and stir occasionally for about 5 minutes.
- Add your ground turkey (or chicken) along with the minced garlic. Break it into pieces as it cooks and let it brown for an additional 5 minutes.
- Combine the cooked rice, black beans, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil in the pan with the meat. Allow everything to simmer for 3 to 5 minutes for the flavors to meld, then take it off the heat.
- Pack each pepper with the flavorful filling and top with an even amount of shredded cheese.
- Pour about 1 1/2 cups of water into the bottom of the baking pan. Bake uncovered for about 10 minutes or until the cheese melts and the peppers start to soften.
Pro Tip: Check the peppers during baking. They should be tender but still hold their shape.
How should I serve it?
These Halloween stuffed peppers can be enjoyed right out of the oven, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or extra cheese. Pair them with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover filling. They make a lovely centerpiece for a Halloween-themed dinner table.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peppers and fill them a day in advance; just store them in the fridge. For storage, they last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days or can be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, bake them at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
How do I fix common issues?
If your stuffed peppers turn out dry, consider adding a little more sauce to the filling next time or covering them while baking. If they’re bland, a dash more salt or spices can enhance flavor. For soggy peppers, try baking for a bit longer to allow moisture to evaporate.
What variations can I try?
You can easily customize the filling—try adding corn, diced tomatoes, or different types of beans depending on what you have on hand. For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with extra beans or lentils, and you can also get creative with the cheese type on top.
FAQs
Can I use different colored peppers?
Yes! While orange peppers are ideal for Halloween, any color of bell pepper works wonderfully for this recipe.
Can I use quinoa instead of rice?
Definitely! Quinoa is a fantastic substitute that adds additional protein and flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the labels, especially for any canned items.
These Halloween stuffed peppers not only celebrate the fun and spirit of the season but also bring warmth and nourishment. They turn a regular dinner into a festive gathering, making them a staple every October. Give them a try and enjoy the smiles around the table!
Halloween Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients
Method
- Set your oven to 400°F and let it heat up.
- Slice off the tops of the peppers carefully, then remove seeds and white parts from the inside. Carve fun jack-o-lantern faces on one side and arrange the peppers upright in a baking pan (9x13 works great).
- In a large pan, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and stir occasionally for about 5 minutes.
- Add your ground turkey (or chicken) along with the minced garlic. Break it into pieces as it cooks and let it brown for an additional 5 minutes.
- Combine the cooked rice, black beans, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil in the pan with the meat. Allow everything to simmer for 3 to 5 minutes for the flavors to meld, then take it off the heat.
- Pack each pepper with the flavorful filling and top with an even amount of shredded cheese.
- Pour about 1 1/2 cups of water into the bottom of the baking pan. Bake uncovered for about 10 minutes or until the cheese melts and the peppers start to soften.