Mushroom BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers

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Introduction and Origin

This recipe takes the classic flavors of a bacon cheeseburger and combines them with the smoky sweetness of BBQ sauce, mushrooms, and the natural crunch of bell peppers. By swapping out burger buns for bell peppers, this dish offers a lower-carb, nutrient-rich alternative while keeping all the bold flavors intact.

Cultural Significance

Stuffed peppers have been a popular dish across various cuisines, with different fillings depending on regional preferences. This version is a modern, American-inspired twist that transforms a backyard favorite into a wholesome, oven-baked meal.

Ingredients

Quantity (Serves 4-6)

  • 4 large bell peppers (any color), halved and seeded
  • 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
  • ½ cup diced mushrooms
  • 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • ½ small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup shredded mozzarella (for extra cheesiness)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Additions

  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for heat)
  • ½ cup cooked rice or quinoa (for a heartier filling)
  • ¼ cup pickles, chopped (for a tangy crunch)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for added depth)

Tips for Success

  • Pre-roasting the peppers for 10 minutes softens them slightly, making them easier to cut and eat.
  • Drain excess grease from the beef mixture to prevent sogginess.
  • Add cheese during the last few minutes of baking for the perfect melt.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and arrange bell pepper halves inside. Drizzle with olive oil.
  2. Cook the filling: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

  1. Flavor the meat: Stir in crumbled bacon, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  2. Stuff the peppers: Evenly distribute the beef mixture into each bell pepper half.
  3. Top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella over the stuffed peppers.
  4. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra BBQ sauce or fresh parsley if desired.

Description

These Mushroom BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers deliver the smoky, cheesy goodness of a loaded burger without the bun. The bell peppers add a fresh crunch, balancing out the rich and savory filling.

Nutritional Information (Per stuffed pepper, based on 6 servings)

  • Calories: ~320
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Fiber: 3g

Conclusion and Recommendation

This dish is perfect for a low-carb dinner or a fun twist on burger night. It pairs well with a side salad, sweet potato fries, or coleslaw for a complete meal.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a healthier option, use lean ground turkey, turkey bacon, and a sugar-free BBQ sauce. You can also experiment with different cheeses, like gouda or pepper jack, for added flavor.

Would you like a sauce recommendation to drizzle on top?

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