Mushroom BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger

This juicy, cheesy, smoky-sweet stuffed pepper captures all the best flavors of a loaded cheeseburger but baked inside a colorful bell pepper. It’s a creative twist on dinner that brings comfort and excitement to the table all at once.

I tossed this together one evening when I craved cheeseburgers but wanted something with veggies, and now it’s a family favourite whenever we want classic tastes with a bit of a different spin

Ingredients

• Large bell peppers: in red yellow or green to hold the filling and add a sweet crispness
• Beef mince: for hearty and juicy protein that’s the base of the filling
• Cooked streaky bacon: chopped to bring smoky richness and texture
• BBQ sauce: for that signature smoky-sweet tang that ties everything together
• Mature Cheddar: grated because it melts beautifully and adds sharp cheesy goodness
• Mushrooms: finely diced to add earthiness and moisture
• Onion: finely diced for a subtle sweetness and depth
• Gherkins: picked and chopped for a zingy contrast to the savory elements
• Salt and black pepper: to enhance all the flavors
• Fresh parsley: chopped for a bright fresh garnish that cuts through the richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat the oven:

Preheat your oven to 190 degrees Celsius or 170 degrees with a fan. Lightly grease a baking dish so the peppers don’t stick and make cleanup easier

Prepare the peppers:

Cut the tops off your bell peppers carefully and remove all seeds and white membranes inside so they are hollow and ready to be filled. Stand the peppers upright in your greased baking dish so they stay stable during baking

Cook the filling:

Place a large frying pan on medium heat and add the beef mince. Break it up as it cooks until it is fully browned which makes for a juicy bite. Add the finely diced mushrooms and onion then cook for another two to three minutes until softened and flavorful

Add flavour:

Stir in the BBQ sauce plus the chopped cooked bacon and the diced gherkins. Season with salt and black pepper to your taste. This layer of flavors is what makes the filling so vibrant and wonderfully balanced

Fill the peppers:

Use a spoon to pack the cooked beef mixture into each bell pepper. Make sure to fill them well so every bite is loaded with all that delicious filling. Top each with the grated mature Cheddar cheese making a great golden crust when baked

Bake:

Cover your baking dish loosely with foil to keep moisture in but allow some steam to escape. Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly on top

Serve:

Take the peppers out of the oven and scatter fresh parsley on top for aroma and a fresh pop of color. Serve these hot and enjoy with your favorite sides like wedges or coleslaw

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Storage tips

Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the cheese melty without drying out the peppers

Ingredient substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped for beef if preferred for a lighter option. Swap mature Cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder melt. If you do not have gherkins try finely chopped pickles or even capers for a tangy punch

Serving suggestions

These stuffed peppers are fantastic alongside crispy potato wedges a fresh crunchy coleslaw or sweet corn on the cob. Add a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika if you want an extra smoky kick

Cultural context

Stuffed peppers are popular all over the world with countless variations. This version channels American BBQ cheeseburger flavors giving a familiar taste experience wrapped in a healthy vegetable vessel that makes the meal feel lighter but just as indulgent

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different types of peppers?

Yes, red, yellow, or green bell peppers all work well and add vibrant color and sweetness to balance the savory filling.

→ How do I prevent the peppers from becoming soggy?

Cutting off the tops and removing seeds helps peppers hold their shape, while baking covered loosely maintains moisture without over-softening.

→ What can I substitute for streaky bacon?

Smoked ham or pancetta can provide a similar smoky note, but adjust salt levels accordingly to avoid overpowering the filling.

→ Is it necessary to pre-cook the filling before baking?

Cooking the beef with mushrooms and onions first ensures the filling is flavorful and fully cooked, preventing any raw textures after baking.

→ Can I add more cheese on top?

Absolutely! Adding extra Cheddar or a mix of cheeses can create a richer, gooier topping that browns nicely in the oven.

→ What sides best complement these stuffed peppers?

Classic sides like potato wedges, fresh coleslaw, or corn on the cob balance the rich, smoky flavors of the peppers perfectly.