The Halloween season is a time for fun, but its also when creative kitchens get a little chaotic. Imagine turning everyday bell peppers into tiny Jack-o’-Lanterns, each filled with a spicy, cheesy surprise. This recipe isnt just about the visual wow factor; its about bringing a playful, festive spirit to the dinner table.
Creating these pumpkin-inspired peppers is like a mini sculpting project. It sparks childhood memories of carving pumpkins but with a culinary twist thats surprisingly simple and satisfying. A bit of chopping, some stuffing, and a dash of spice are all it takes to make your Halloween meal memorable.

Spicy Cheesy Stuffed Mini Bell Pepper Jack-o’-Lanterns
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the mini bell peppers thoroughly and dry them with a paper towel.
- Using a paring knife, carefully carve a small face or eyes into each pepper to resemble tiny Jack-o’-Lanterns, making sure to remove the tops and seeds.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheese, cooked quinoa, hot sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Use a small spoon or vegetable scoop to carefully stuff each carved pepper with the cheese mixture, filling them to the top but not overflowing.
- Arrange the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each pepper lightly with olive oil to promote browning.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and slightly charred at the edges, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Then, serve these playful Jack-o’-Lantern peppers warm, ready to add a fun and spicy touch to your Halloween table.
As the season shifts, embracing playful, edible art can turn any ordinary meal into a celebration. The warm, cheesy filling complements the cool autumn air and the flickering candlelight. Its a simple way to add a bit of magic and a lot of flavor to your October festivities.
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