Cheeseburger-Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe: Easy, Delicious, and Perfect for Meal Prep
If you love cheeseburgers but are looking for a healthier or low-carb alternative, these Cheeseburger-Stuffed Bell Peppers are just what you need. Packed with savory ground beef, gooey cheese, and juicy peppers, this dish is simple and flavorful. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color you like)
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey if you prefer)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Pickles, bacon bits, or hot sauce for extra flair
Equipment
You don’t need anything fancy:
- A baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- A good spatula or spoon for stirring
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Peppers
Cut the bell peppers’ tops off and scoop out the seeds and membranes. Please place them in a baking dish with the cut side up. If they’re wobbly, trim the bottom slightly so they stand upright.
Cook the Filling
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir onion, diced tomatoes, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors combine.
Stuff the Peppers
- Spoon the beef mixture into each bell pepper, filling them generously.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.
Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for 10 minutes to melt the cheese and let it get friendly and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these peppers warm with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or crispy sweet potato fries. Want to go all out? Add chopped pickles, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream for that extra cheeseburger vibe.
Nutritional Perks
These stuffed peppers are naturally low in carbs and packed with protein. Each serving provides about 300-350 calories (depending on the cheese and beef you use). They’re great for anyone following a keto or gluten-free diet, too!
Variations
- Make it Veggie: Swap the beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils.
- Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
- Change the Flavor: Go Italian with mozzarella and marinara sauce or Tex-Mex with taco seasoning and pepper jack cheese.
Tips for Success
- Avoid Soggy Peppers: Pre-bake them for 5 minutes if you like them softer.
- Even Cooking: Make sure your peppers are evenly sized to cook at the same rate.
- Cheese Magic: Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt.
Cheeseburger-stuffed bell Peppers are the perfect mix of comfort food and healthy eating. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep idea for the week, this recipe has you covered. Try it tonight and enjoy the deliciousness!
