Introduction
Low-Carb, Keto Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers Recipe is a perfect way to enjoy the classic flavors of a cheeseburger while staying within your low-carb or keto goals. This dish takes the savory goodness of a juicy burger—complete with ground beef, cheese, and pickles—and transforms it into a healthier, low-carb option by swapping the traditional bun for colorful bell peppers. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal for anyone following a keto lifestyle or just looking for a delicious twist on the classic.
What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can easily adjust the toppings to suit your preferences, whether you’re a fan of extra cheese, crispy bacon, or tangy mustard. And the bell peppers add the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, while the meat and cheese filling gives you all the satisfying burger flavors. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal that’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
This dish was inspired by a craving for a cheeseburger but wanting something healthier and lower in carbs. When I first made it, I was amazed at how flavorful and satisfying it turned out. The first bite was a revelation—it truly felt like I was indulging in a cheeseburger, without the carb-heavy bun. This is a recipe I find myself returning to over and over, and I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do! Whether you’re following keto, watching your carbs, or simply love a good cheeseburger, these stuffed peppers are a game-changer.
Perfect for:
- Keto-friendly meals
- Low-carb dinner options
- Easy weeknight meals
- Meal prepping for the week
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Keto-Friendly: These cheeseburger stuffed peppers are a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional burgers, offering all the classic flavors without the bun. Perfect for those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle.
- Delicious and Satisfying: Packed with seasoned beef, gooey melted cheese, and the natural sweetness of roasted bell peppers, this dish delivers a hearty and satisfying meal that’s full of flavor.
- One-Pan Meal: Simplify your cooking routine with this all-in-one meal, prepared and cooked in a single pan. It’s convenient, time-saving, and reduces the mess for an easy clean-up.
- Family-Friendly: A versatile dish that pleases everyone at the table, even those not following a low-carb diet. The familiar cheeseburger flavors make this recipe a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: Tailor the recipe to your preferences by swapping the meat, adding your favorite toppings, or incorporating extra cheese for an indulgent touch.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 stuffed peppers
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 350 calories per stuffed pepper
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For Topping:
- 2 tablespoons pickle slices (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Peppers
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers cut-side up in a baking dish. Set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil or cooking spray over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, mustard (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes until well combined.
3. Stuff the Peppers
Spoon the cooked ground beef mixture into each of the bell peppers, filling them to the top. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese over the top of the beef in each pepper.
4. Bake the Stuffed Peppers
Place the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve and Garnish
Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven. Optionally, top with pickle slices for added flavor and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve
- With a side salad: Serve your cheeseburger stuffed peppers alongside a simple green salad or a side of keto-friendly coleslaw.
- With Zucchini Fries: Pair with a serving of crispy zucchini fries for a complete meal.
- As an appetizer: Cut the stuffed peppers into halves for smaller servings, ideal for parties or appetizers.
- With Cauliflower Rice: Serve over cauliflower rice to add more veggies to your meal.
Additional Tips
- Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the recipe lighter, or try ground turkey if you prefer a leaner protein.
- Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or a few diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for some extra spice.
- Grill the Peppers: For added smoky flavor, grill the bell peppers instead of baking them.
- Add Veggies: If you like, you can mix chopped mushrooms or spinach into the beef mixture for added flavor and texture.
Recipe Variations
- Cheeseburger Stuffed Chicken: For a leaner alternative, swap out the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey. This substitution keeps the dish light while still delivering that signature cheeseburger taste. You can also season the ground chicken with a bit of smoked paprika and onion powder to amplify the flavor.
- Cheese Lover’s: Double down on cheesy goodness by incorporating shredded cheese both into the filling and as a gooey topping. Try a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack to create a rich, melty delight with every bite.
- Bacon-Topped: Enhance the savory profile of the dish by sprinkling crispy bacon bits over the stuffed peppers just before serving. This adds a satisfying crunch and an extra layer of smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheeseburger-inspired filling.
- Low-Carb, No Cheese: For those following a dairy-free keto or low-carb diet, simply skip the cheese altogether. Instead, load the peppers with the flavorful seasoned meat and add toppings like avocado slices, pico de gallo, or a drizzle of dairy-free ranch dressing to keep the dish fresh and satisfying.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: To enjoy leftovers later, transfer the stuffed peppers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through, or use an oven set at 350°F (175°C) for a more evenly heated result. Cover the peppers with foil while reheating in the oven to keep them moist.
- Freezing Before Baking: Prepare the stuffed peppers as directed, but do not bake them. Instead, arrange the stuffed peppers in a freezer-safe dish or wrap each one tightly in foil. Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, remove from the freezer, unwrap if wrapped individually, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes or until thoroughly cooked.
- Freezing After Baking: If you’ve already baked the stuffed peppers, allow them to cool completely before freezing. Place them in an airtight container or wrap individually with plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. For a quicker option, microwave in 1-minute intervals, covering with a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture.
Special Equipment
- Baking Dish: A 9×9 or similar-sized baking dish works well for baking the peppers.
- Skillet: A large skillet is needed to cook the ground beef and other ingredients before stuffing the peppers.
FAQ Section
- Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and stuff the peppers in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. - Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the ground beef with crumbled tofu, lentils, or a vegetarian protein substitute. - Can I use any type of bell pepper?
Yes, feel free to use any color of bell pepper that you prefer—red, yellow, green, or orange! - How can I tell when the peppers are fully cooked?
The peppers should be tender to a fork, and the cheese on top will be golden and bubbly.
Conclusion
Low-Carb Keto Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers are a perfect combination of savory and satisfying flavors while keeping things low-carb. The bell peppers provide a hearty base, and the seasoned beef and cheese filling brings the classic cheeseburger flavors into each bite. This recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to enjoy a healthier take on a familiar favorite.
It’s easy to make and customizable, allowing for various mix-ins such as bacon, pickles, or even mustard for added zest. You can also choose your preferred cheese for the perfect melt. Whether served for lunch, dinner, or as a party appetizer, these stuffed peppers are sure to be a hit.
Try making them today and share your creation with friends and family! Don’t forget to post your photo on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your version of this tasty dish. Enjoy!