These BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers are a delightful twist on the classic cheeseburger, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal packed into a vibrant bell pepper. Each bite is an explosion of savory beef, crispy bacon, sweet BBQ sauce, and melted cheese, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a fun dish for your next gathering, these stuffed peppers deliver all the flavors you love about a juicy cheeseburger without the need for a bun.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this recipe because it brings together some of the best elements of a cheeseburger—juicy beef, savory bacon, and melty cheese—while incorporating the nutritious benefits of colorful bell peppers. They are easy to prepare, cook quickly in the oven, and can be customized with your favorite seasonings and toppings. Plus, they are perfect for those who are looking for a low-carb meal option. Whether you are feeding a family or having friends over, these BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers are guaranteed to impress!
Introduction
Stuffed peppers have long been a beloved dish in many households, transforming humble ingredients into a meal that’s both hearty and wholesome. The core idea is simple: take a vegetable, stuff it with a flavorful filling, and bake until tender. In this recipe, we elevate the traditional stuffed pepper by infusing it with the rich, smoky flavors of BBQ, the irresistible crispiness of bacon, and the decadence of melted cheese. This combination not only satisfies your hunger but also tantalizes your taste buds, providing a novel yet comforting twist to an old favorite. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that is both simple and spectacular!
Ingredients:
- 4 bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2:
Carefully cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. You want to create a sturdy yet hollow vessel for the filling, so make sure to keep the walls of the peppers intact. Place the prepared peppers upright in the baking dish.
Step 3:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spatula into smaller pieces. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.
Step 4:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the crumbled bacon, BBQ sauce, and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for just a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5:
Stuff the prepared bell peppers generously with the beef and bacon mixture. Once filled, top each pepper with a generous portion of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 6:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. If you prefer a bit of crispy top on your cheese, you can remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking. Cook until the peppers are tender and the cheese is thoroughly melted and bubbly.
COOKING Rating:
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 (5 out of 5)
Serving Suggestions:
These BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers make a hearty main dish all on their own, but there are multiple ways to elevate your meal further. Serve alongside a simple green salad for added freshness, or enjoy them with a side of sweet potato fries for a more indulgent option. For those who love spice, a dollop of spicy sriracha or jalapeños on top will give an exciting kick. Pair your dish with a cool beverage, such as iced tea or a light beer, to complement the rich flavors.
Tips:
- Customization: Feel free to swap out the cheddar cheese for your favorite type like Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or even mozzarella for a milder taste.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with meat alternatives or black beans for a vegetarian-friendly version while keeping the bacon for extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to cook, simply increase the baking time as necessary.
- Leftovers: These stuffed peppers make for excellent leftovers. Store any uneaten peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, 1 stuffed pepper):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 720mg
Conclusion
In summary, BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers are not just a meal; they are an experience. By blending the classic flavors of a cheeseburger into a healthy bell pepper vessel, you create a satisfying dish that everyone will love. Whether served at dinner or as part of a festive gathering, these stuffed peppers are versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time. Plus, you can easily modify the ingredients to suit different dietary preferences or ingredient availability, making this a go-to recipe in your repertoire. Bring a vibrant burst of flavor to your table with this delicious and fun dish!
Questions and Answers:
1. Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for ground beef in this recipe. Just ensure to adjust cooking times as leaner meats may cook faster.
2. How do I know when the stuffed peppers are done?
You’ll know they are done when the peppers are tender when pierced with a fork, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?
Absolutely! After stuffing, you can freeze them before baking. Just place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake until heated through.
4. What should I serve with the stuffed peppers?
These stuffed peppers are a complete meal on their own, but you can serve them with a fresh salad, or sweet potato fries, or even some crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
5. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with cooked quinoa or lentils, and omit the bacon, or use a plant-based bacon alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version.
