Spooky & Savory: Halloween Stuffed Bell Pepper Jack-o’-Lanterns

As October’s chill settles in, the idea of turning a humble bell pepper into a playful jack-o’-lantern ignites my creative spirit. This isn’t just about food; it’s a mini Halloween spectacle right in your kitchen. Crafting these edible decorations combines festive fun with a comforting, cheesy filling that everyone will love.

What excites me most is how quickly these peppers come together, yet they have a whimsical charm that transforms any table. They’re perfect for adding a personal touch to your spooky dinner, sparking smiles and a little chaos at your holiday gathering. Plus, they double as a tasty, veggie-packed surprise everyone will enjoy biting into.

Cheesy Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers

These mini bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture, then baked until tender and bubbly. The peppers retain their shape and vibrant color, creating a colorful and inviting appetizer or snack with a satisfying combination of crunch and creaminess.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 8 count mini bell peppers choose firm, colorful peppers
• 1 cup cream cheese softened
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese blend
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon olive oil for brushing
• to taste salt and pepper season as preferred

Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Spoon
• Cooling rack

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Wash the mini bell peppers thoroughly. Using a small knife, slice off the tops of each pepper and carefully scoop out the seeds and membranes to create a hollow cavity.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
4. Use a small spoon to fill each hollowed-out pepper with the cheesy mixture, pressing gently to pack it in without overflowing.
5. Brush the outside of each stuffed pepper lightly with olive oil to promote browning and help the peppers cook evenly.
6. Arrange the stuffed peppers in the prepared baking dish, standing upright. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Transfer to a cooling rack or serve directly from the dish.
8. Enjoy these cheesy stuffed mini peppers warm, as a colorful appetizer or snack, with the cheese melting inside the tender, roasted peppers.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture. You can also sprinkle some chopped herbs on top before baking for extra flavor.

These stuffed pepper jack-o’-lanterns are more than just a clever presentation—they bring a sense of playfulness to the table that feels essential during the bustling Halloween season. The aromas of melting cheese and roasted peppers mingle in the kitchen, turning simple ingredients into festive magic.

There’s a joy in creating something so simple yet so delightful, a reminder that holiday cheer is often found in the small, creative touches. Whether for a family feast or a spooky party, these peppers are bound to become a favorite tradition, sparks of joy in every bite.

William