A low-carb twist on a classic cheeseburger, packed with smoky BBQ flavors, juicy mushrooms, crispy bacon, and melty cheese—all stuffed into tender bell peppers!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Peppers:
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4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Filling:
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1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
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4 slices bacon, chopped
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1 cup mushrooms, diced (cremini or white)
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½ small onion, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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¼ cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
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1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or pepper jack for spice)
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¼ cup pickles, chopped (optional, for tang)
For Topping/Garnish:
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Extra shredded cheese
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Crumbled bacon
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Fresh parsley or green onions
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Extra BBQ sauce or ranch dressing
Instructions
1. Prep the Peppers:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Brush peppers inside and out with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
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Place upright in a baking dish and par-bake for 10–12 minutes (to soften slightly).
2. Cook the Filling:
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In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and drain, leaving 1 tbsp fat in the pan.
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Add onion, mushrooms, and garlic; sauté until soft (3–4 mins).
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Add ground beef, breaking it up. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat.
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Stir in BBQ sauce, Worcestershire, spices, bacon, and pickles. Simmer 2 mins.
3. Stuff & Bake:
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Fill peppers with the beef mixture, top with shredded cheese, and drizzle with extra BBQ sauce.
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Bake 20–25 minutes until peppers are tender and cheese is bubbly.
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Broil 1–2 minutes for a golden top (optional).
4. Garnish & Serve:
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Sprinkle with extra bacon, herbs, and a side of ranch or BBQ sauce.
Tips for Success
🔥 For smokier flavor: Use chipotle BBQ sauce or add a dash of liquid smoke.
🧀 Extra gooey? Add a cheese slice under the shredded cheese layer.
🌶 Spicy kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
🍔 Burger vibe: Serve with lettuce, tomato, and pickles on the side.
Variations
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Turkey Version: Swap beef for ground turkey + add 1 tbsp tomato paste.
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Philly Cheesesteak Style: Replace BBQ sauce with provolone & sautéed bell peppers.
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Keto-Friendly: Use sugar-free BBQ sauce.
These are a crowd-pleaser—great for game day or meal prep!