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### **Instructions:**
**Step 1: Prepare the Beef and Vegetables**
1. **Heat the olive oil** in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the **diced onion**, **bell pepper**, and **mushrooms** (if using) and sauté for about **5-7 minutes** or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
2. Add the minced **garlic** and sauté for another **1 minute** until it’s fragrant.
3. Add the **ground beef** to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, stirring occasionally. Cook for about **7-10 minutes** until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
4. Season with **salt**, **pepper**, and **smoked paprika**, then stir everything together to combine. Set aside.
**Step 2: Prepare the Sauce**
1. In a small bowl, mix together **mayonnaise**, **ketchup**, and **Dijon mustard** to create a creamy burger sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed by adding more mustard or ketchup if you prefer.
**Step 3: Assemble the Big Max**
1. Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**.
2. Slice your **burger buns** in half and lay them out on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about **5 minutes** until golden brown, or you can toast them on a skillet if you prefer a more crispy result.
3. On the bottom half of each bun, spread a generous amount of the burger sauce.
4. Layer the cooked beef and vegetable mixture on top of the sauce.
5. Add a layer of **shredded cheddar**, **mozzarella**, and **Swiss cheese** on top of the beef mixture.
6. Place the top half of the bun on the assembled layers, pressing down lightly to help everything stick together.
**Step 4: Bake and Serve**
1. Transfer the assembled sandwiches back into the oven for about **10-15 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and everything is heated through.
2. Once out of the oven, add fresh **lettuce** and **tomato slices** on top of the sandwiches for added crunch and freshness.
3. Serve immediately while the cheese is still gooey and melted.
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## **Chapter 4: Variations of Big Max for Our Tummy**
One of the best things about **Big Max for Our Tummy** is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few variations you can try to put your own spin on the classic recipe:
### **1. Spicy Big Max**
For those who enjoy a little heat, add some sliced **jalapeños**, **hot sauce**, or **chili flakes** into the beef mixture. You can also incorporate a spicy chipotle mayo sauce instead of the standard burger sauce.
### **2. Veggie Big Max**
If you prefer a vegetarian option, use **plant-based ground beef** or **black beans** instead of the ground beef. Add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or roasted red peppers to amp up the flavor and texture.
### **3. Bacon Lover’s Big Max**
For those who can’t resist bacon, add **crispy bacon strips** into the layers of the sandwich. The smoky flavor of bacon pairs beautifully with the savory beef and creamy cheese.
### **4. Gluten-Free Big Max**
For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the traditional burger buns with **gluten-free buns** or use large lettuce leaves to wrap the ingredients.
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## **Conclusion**
The **Big Max for Our Tummy** is a hearty, flavorful meal that combines all the things we love about comfort food—cheese, savory beef, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauces—into one satisfying package. Whether you serve it for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or even a weeknight treat, this recipe is bound to please. With endless opportunities to customize, you can make this dish your own and enjoy it time and time again.
So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and create this delicious, belly-filling meal that will leave everyone saying, “That’s the Big Max for our tummy!”
