BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers are the ultimate comfort food, but what if we took them up a notch? Enter BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers—a delightful fusion of smoky, savory, and cheesy goodness wrapped in a healthy bell pepper shell. This dish combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the nutritional benefits of vibrant peppers, creating a meal that’s indulgent yet guilt-free. Perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Filling: Every bite packs a punch with savory ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer spicy, sweet, or smoky flavors, this recipe can be tailored to your tastes.
• Healthy Comfort Food: With bell peppers as a low-carb alternative to buns, this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Ingredients Needed

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef.
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite blend).
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your preferred brand or homemade).
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

For the Peppers:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color works, but red and yellow are sweeter).
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray.

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream.
• Chopped parsley or green onions.
• Additional crumbled bacon.

Kitchen Tools Required

• Large skillet.
• Baking dish.
• Mixing bowl.
• Sharp knife and cutting board.
• Aluminum foil or lid for covering during baking.

Preparing Your Ingredients

Choosing the Right Bell Peppers

Choose bell peppers that are firm, glossy, and have a wide, flat base. This ensures they’ll stand upright in the baking dish, making them easier to stuff and bake evenly.

Preparing the Filling

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir well to combine.
3. Mix in the BBQ sauce and crumbled bacon. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Stir in shredded cheese until evenly distributed.

Prepping the Bell Peppers

1. Wash the peppers thoroughly, then slice off the tops and remove seeds and membranes.
2. If necessary, trim the bottoms slightly to help the peppers stand upright. Brush the exteriors with olive oil for a glossy finish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking the Filling

Ensure the filling is flavorful by tasting as you go. Adjust seasonings and BBQ sauce as needed for a balanced taste.

Stuffing the Peppers

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Generously fill each pepper with the beef mixture, pressing gently to pack the filling.

Baking the Peppers

1. Arrange stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
2. Bake for 25–30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and bubble.

Tips for Perfect BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers

1. Avoid Overcooking Peppers: Remove them from the oven when tender yet firm enough to hold their shape.
2. Flavorful Filling: Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting quality.
3. Customizations: Add diced jalapeños for spice or swap out the BBQ sauce for a mustard-based alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these stuffed peppers with crisp coleslaw, roasted sweet potatoes, or even a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a playful touch, serve with pickle spears on the side—just like a cheeseburger platter!

Variations to Try

1. Spicy BBQ Version: Add diced jalapeños and a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
2. Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with a plant-based alternative or black beans.
3. Keto-Friendly Adjustments: Use sugar-free BBQ sauce and skip the breadcrumbs.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Cool peppers completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the filling and stuff the peppers, then refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
2. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef? Absolutely! Both work well and offer a leaner alternative.
3. How do I prevent soggy peppers? Pre-baking the peppers for 5–10 minutes before stuffing can help retain their structure.
4. What’s the best way to reheat stuffed peppers? Oven reheating is best to avoid a mushy texture, but microwaving works in a pinch.
5. Can I grill the peppers instead of baking? Yes! Wrap each stuffed pepper in foil and grill over medium heat until cooked through.

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